Perceived weaknesses of post-graduates in a group supervision setup: lived experiences of a small sample of South African students.

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/1edbey54

Keywords:

Computer Science Education, Group Supervision Interventions, Group Supervision Weaknesses, Post-graduate Lived Experiences, Post-graduate Supervision

Abstract

Although research supervision presents various challenges, it is crucial for student success, particularly at the post-graduate level. The aim of this study was twofold. First, we identified the weaknesses of group supervision from the contemporary literature through the lens of SWOT analysis, Tuckman’s stages of group development, and Proctor’s supervision model. Second, we used insight into these weaknesses to devise improved strategies for instructors to supervise post-graduate computer science students. We followed an integrated methodological approach where data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews, supplemented by informal observations made during supervision activities. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the collected data and 10 key weaknesses of group supervision were identified. The study makes two key contributions. The first contribution is methodological in nature ─ sharing and discussing the supervision intervention that was implemented during this study. The second contribution relates to the weaknesses of group supervision that are relevant not only in generic research supervision but also in supervising technical research projects.

Author Biographies

  • Pakiso J Khomokhoana,, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and Department of Computer Science and Informatics, University of the Free State, South Africa.

    Dr Pakiso J. Khomokhoana is a senior lecturer in the Information Systems Division at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. His work has focused on Computer Science Education, where he has made significant contributions to the field. His research has earned him recognition, including Best Paper Awards at the SACLA Conference in 2019 for Decoding Source Code Comprehension: Bottlenecks Experienced by Senior Computer Science Students, and in 2021 for Mapping the Problem-Solving Strategies of Novice Programmers to Polya’s Framework: SWOT Analysis as a Bottleneck Identification Tool. His current research interests include Information Systems Education, Enterprise Systems, Emerging Technologies, and Cultural Informatics. Dr Khomokhoana holds an MSc (cum laude) and a PhD in Computer Information Systems from the University of the Free State, South Africa. He has also been a fellow in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL) programme at the University of the Free State. In 2021, he successfully completed the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) Online Training Course for Supervisors of Doctoral Candidates at African Universities (SUNOnline).

  • Wynand Nel, Department of Computer Science and Informatics, University of the Free State, South Africa

    Dr Wynand Nel is a senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science at Akademia. His research interests include blockchain technology, digital inclusion, community engagement, and strategies to bridge the digital divide. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of the Free State, South Africa and has experience in academia and industry, making him a well-rounded researcher and educator. Dr Nel is also passionate about teaching and curriculum development. His teaching career started in 2001, and he has taught at all levels of tertiary education. His teaching philosophy emphasises practical, hands-on experience to equip students with industry-relevant skills. In addition to his academic responsibilities, he is actively involved in the IT industry, using this engagement to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications. He has published research in high-impact journals such as IEEE Access and The African Journal of Information and Communication (AJIC), as well as in leading conferences like DESRIST, CHIRA, ICECET and Society 5.0, to mention a few. His notable work includes research on blockchain-based random number generation, digital inclusion strategies, brain-computer interface applications, and cybersecurity in financial systems. Dr Nel continues contributing to the field through academic publications, conference presentations, and collaborations with researchers and industry professionals.

  • Rouxan C Fouché, University of the Free State

    Dr Rouxan Colin Fouché is a lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and Informatics at the University of the Free State, South Africa specializing in digital inclusion, community engagement, and strategies to bridge the digital divide. He is the driving force behind the Information Technology Service-Learning (ITSL) project, an initiative that empowers underserved communities with essential computer literacy skills while fostering civic responsibility among university students. Dr Fouché earned his PhD in Computer Information Systems and holds advanced degrees in Information Technology and Education Management. His research focuses on the intersection of technology, education, and societal development, with a particular emphasis on service learning, digital inclusion, and the use of innovative technologies to address community challenges. His scholarly contributions are well-regarded, with publications that reflect his commitment to impactful, engaged research. A recipient of the UFS Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Service-Learning, Dr Fouché has been recognized for his leadership in embedding service-learning within higher education. Beyond academia, he actively contributes to initiatives aimed at advancing engaged scholarship and leveraging technology for sustainable development and social equity, aligning his work with global efforts to create a more inclusive digital future.

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Published

26-05-2025

Issue

Vol. 20 No. 1 (2025): The Independent Journal of Teaching and Learning (IJTL)

Section

Articles

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Khomokhoana, P. J., Nel, W., & Fouché, R. C. (2025). Perceived weaknesses of post-graduates in a group supervision setup: lived experiences of a small sample of South African students. The Independent Journal of Teaching and Learning, 20(1), 138-159. https://doi.org/10.17159/1edbey54

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