One of the outcomes of the policy emphasis upon skills formation in countries like Australia and the UK has been an increase in cross-disciplinary structured programs for higher research degrees raising implicit, but often unexamined, questions about the curriculum and expertise that should inform them. Key insights from applied linguistics and…

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 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…