The paper draws on a series of Australian Research Council (ARC) projects aimed at understanding better the process of doctoral examination. The early phase focussed on the Australian doctorate, which functions without a Viva, while the later phase was concerned with comparing the earlier findings with analysis of the United Kingdom (UK) and New…

It is argued that Britain's University Grants Committee (UGC) could and should have assessed the quality of teaching as well as of research in its allocation of resources to universities. (Author/MSE)

A survey of published research projects in 16 arts and humanities disciplines in the United Kingdom found a more substantial body of research than was revealed earlier either by survey or through a tally of arts and humanities degrees. The new survey method and possible reasons for the discrepancy are examined. (MSE)

The system of student assessment in Russian universities is described and contrasted with that of universities in Britain. Focus is on entrance examinations, use of problem solving and case studies for continuous assessment, individual research projects, and graduate employment patterns as they relate to student performance. (MSE)

The debate over the nature, purpose, and structure of the doctoral dissertation is examined, particularly as it relates to the humanities and social sciences. Issues discussed include supervision policies and practices, the advising relationship, the culture of research and collaboration, differences between disciplines, resolution of research…