Friendship groups and learning in higher education

Whilst there is an extensive literature on the relationship between student study groups and learning in higher education, relatively little attention has been paid to the role and function of student friendship groups. This may seem surprising given the positive association between social and academic development with friendship groups, which is often gleaned from research in primary and secondary education. The current project will therefore explore the role of friendship groups on facilitating learning in higher education. The research will focus on how friendship groups form between students, how these friendships are understood by students over the course of a degree programme and the role of social interaction between friends in facilitating learning. A qualitative methodology or mixed method approach will be used to collect and analyse data.

A successful applicant will join a thriving postgraduate community at the Kedleston Road site of the University of Derby. Applicants who have a good (at least upper second) degree in psychology or a closely related subject will be considered for the New Route PhD, incorporating an MRes qualification before transfer to the PhD programme. Applicants who have an existing MSc or MA qualification can apply for direct entry onto the PhD. All applicants will have good qualitative research methods skills, demonstrate a good understanding of social or educational psychological concepts and will be a well organised, self-motivated researcher.
The University of Derby is pleased to welcome applications from self-funded or externally sponsored students for programmes of research in this or a closely related area, beginning from September 2012. Applications are welcome from students wishing to study full time or part time, and applications are welcome from students in employment who have the support of their employers.

The University of Derby provides PhD students with a range of facilities and support, including dedicated office space, PC and IT facilities, and library services, and all PhD students in Psychology are members of the Centre for Psychological Research, an active community of psychological researchers – see http://www.derby.ac.uk/science/psychology/the-centre-for-psychological-research

At the University of Derby, the Traditional Route PhD is taken by students who already have a Masters level qualification that includes research methods. Students without previous Masters level training in research methods take the New Route PhD, which includes training in research methods.

Details of the application process, including fees, are given here: http://www.derby.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/applicants

Prior to making a formal application, applicants are advised to contact the supervisor for an initial informal discussion about the proposed project.