Part-time and distance-learning postgraduate researchers can encounter unique challenges, including isolation, neglect, and the demands of balancing multiple responsibilities. These challenges can impact their postgraduate experience, sense of belonging, and mental health and overall wellbeing. Despite the increasing number postgraduate researchers taking part-time and distance routes, there remains a lack of research on their needs, and what kinds of interventions might best meet them. This highlights an urgent need to provide targeted support, from peers, supervisors, and others our institutions.
James Burford, an Associate Professor of Global Education and International Development at the University of Warwick, will lead an insightful discussion on the unique challenges faced by part-time and distance-learning postgraduate researchers. Drawing from his own experience of completing a PhD part-time and at a distance, James will offer valuable perspectives on the realities of this academic path. Furthermore, he will present the significant work he and his colleagues have undertaken in addressing the mental health and wellbeing of distance learners, providing a range of strategies for flourishing when studying part-time and at a distance.