Innovative evaluation of researcher training at the University of Birmingham, UK

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight developments in evaluation of researcher development training undertaken by the University of Birmingham's Graduate School. It details the mixed methods analysis techniques applied and shows how results are used to shape future training provision. Design/methodology/approach – Initial analysis is carried out immediately following each course to ensure it meets the needs of current students. Deeper analysis is undertaken on an annual basis to draw out trends and issues. This allows us to see overall satisfaction with each course as well as identifying the most helpful elements, what could be changed, and what other courses students would like to see. As a case study this paper demonstrates the quantitative and qualitative evaluation undertaken on the Academic Writing, Part Time Researcher and Viva Preparation courses run in recent years and shows how the results can be measured using the Rugby Team Impact Framework. Findings – Analysis of our courses has revealed conclusions which will steer future course development and demonstrates the value of researcher development training. Practical implications – Our results give us confidence that our training programme delivers what our students need. Originality/value – These methods could be applied to researcher development training programmes elsewhere.