About the Student Research Experience Questionnaire (SREQ)
In 2002 the Institute for Teaching and Learning (ITL) began collecting data for The University community on research higher degree students' perceptions of their research training experiences. This data is gathered each year using a survey specifically developed for this task, the "Student Research Experience Questionnaire" (SREQ). The purpose of the SREQ is to provide the University community with a basis for strategic, faculty level academic development and curriculum review to further enhance the quality of research higher degrees. The SREQ is based on a national survey of research higher degree students, the Postgraduate Research Experience Questionnaire (PREQ).
Some of the information gathered by the SREQ survey also contributes to two of the University's Key Performance Indicators for research. These KPIs are the quality of Supervision, and Overall Satisfaction with the research higher degree.
The survey gathers data on students' perceptions of the quality and frequency of supervision, intellectual and social climate, infrastructure, approaches to research, and generic skills development in their research higher degree, as well as their perceptions of the administration and student support services. The ITL analyses this data and provides a range of reports to staff and students of the university through this web site. Background information and resources to support staff in interpreting and acting upon the SREQ results, can all be found on this web site.
The ITL works closely with the Dean of Graduate Studies to consider how the faculties might make the best use of such evaluation and quality assurance data. The ITL also collaborates with faculties to arrange follow-up fora on the SREQ and PREQ on request. Such fora should be open to all staff and students of the faculty and are intended to stimulate debate and discussion on improving the experience of research higher degrees based on the SREQ and PREQ results. The SREQ and PREQ data can also be used by faculties in the development of their annual research plans and in developing TIES applications. Staff of the ITL are available to provide support to faculties in the interpretation of the SREQ and PREQ data and the development of strategic responses to address any issues identified. Please contact Brad Ridout.
