Supervision of Postgraduate Independent Study in a Distance Learning Environment

This chapter is written in collaboration with one past and two present Computer Science doctorate students who all studied a UK Master’s programme by distance learning and whilst living overseas; all three went on to study for a PhD in the same way, one completed and two are still current. The chapter explores their first-hand experience and ideas in order to arrive at some recommendations for achieving success with this kind of study. The exploration involves a narrative from each of the three co-authors who studied in this way. Not surprisingly, communication and engagement from supervisors/tutors and students are key here. However, other recommendations range from motivational elements – such as achieving publications, to the very practical, such as being supported with technical issues. The lessons learned from these experiences are particularly pertinent for distance students but many of them will resonate for on-site staff/student interactions just as well.