I am trying to present a problem of graduate programmes sustainability. However, i am a bit confused on what constitute poor sustainability of graduate programmes such as Masters and Ph.D. programmes
Lack of motivations and funding for graduate students is a big factor
In my personal opinion, there are various economic and social factors that can constitute poor sustainability in graduate programs. For instance, although students are studying through their programs they may not gain suitable levels of experience in their field. If students only learn theory but do not gain experience through practice they will not only struggle to develop meaning in their studies, but students are likely to lack in motivation and goal setting.
Another limitation would be funding and field opportunities. Students need financial backing or at the very least, have financial assistance and field opportunities. This will help them progress through their studies and provide them with opportunities to undertake field studies or external practical experiences in their field of study.
Lastly, I would mention that sustainability may also be referred as a process of 'maintaining change in a balance environment', however, students are not always going to experience balance within themselves during their program/s because of external pressures that come with being a student, for example, stress and mental disorders (e.g. anxiety & depression). Therefore, to maintain a sense of sustainability within these graduate programs, students need peer-support and study assistance by implementing peer study tutorials and promoting the accessibility to extra support services e.g. counselling or skill workshops.
Since I am working with my Alma Mater on the same subject, one key issue is how to cover the cos of running a high quality programme without over burdening the students with the cost.
For me it could be the mushrooming of various lateral institutions with the aim of making money instead of providing the quality education due to lack of infrastructure like state of the art labs for pratical training and unemployment etc.
The cost of giving a sustainable graduate program in the biggest problem in my opinion. When you have to enroll students over the normal capacity of universities (based on their faculties and other facilities) for covering high expenses, therefore you cannot implement a good sustainable educational program.
Lack of motivation for the students and of course lack of capacities from the University (human resource, research materials and funding in terms of scholarships)
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