Characteristics of Learners and Theses Supervision : Case Study of Graduate Students in Early Childhood Education Study, Curriculum and Instruction Program, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to study characteristics and approaches to theses supervision that fit the characteristics of graduate students in early childhood education study, curriculum and instruction program at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University. This study employed qualitative research using case studies.  The informants were nine graduate students in early childhood education study, curriculum and instruction program at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University whom are in the process of completing dissertations or independent studies. The instruments used for data collection were interview and observation form and an in-depth interview form.  Data was analyzed by content analysis.

Findings revealed that the characteristics of graduate students in early childhood education study, curriculum and instruction program at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University could be described into 4 groups.  The first group was “work-oriented” group, characterized by being very enthusiastic, focus on getting a job done.  Appropriate actions in supervising this group were to work collaboratively to create a plan, so that students could set their own goals and manage time more efficiently.  The second group was “coordinator” group that could be described as sociable, enjoyed work that opens an opportunity to coordinate and interact with others.  Suitable actions in supervising this group were to supervise in a small group setting that allow them to mee other peers to exchange ideas. Actions needed in supervising this group were advisor should be the one whom makes an approach and monitor consistently while trying to avoid tension, assign tasks step by step, and supervise in a small group.  The fourth group was “judicious” group which characterized as reasonable, meticulous, enjoy work that requires thinking.  Appropriate actions in supervising this group were to identify what students didn’t understand and assist them in gaining knowledge on that topics.