Practical Student Learning and Preparation

About the Project

Practical classes are a major part of student learning and help them associate theory with the real world. The three key outcomes for a successful practical class are that students acquire a procedural understanding with hands-on skills, students can communicate their results, and students are able to apply conceptual understanding to their work. It has been previously identified that the two main items needed for students to engage with the practical work effectively are adequate student preparation of procedures and conceptual understanding [1].

Making sure students are successful can be difficult, therefore this project aims to evaluate how students prepare for practical activities. Work towards a structural model [2] of student preparation will take place using surveys and interviews to access key preparation effect variables; for example, motivation, metacognition, resources, learning environment, quality, etc. In addition, recommendations/guidelines for best practice for practical teaching will be developed to help maximise student learning from these activities, including resources for preparation [3,4].

This project is part of the University’s Chemical Engineering Education Innovation Research group. This group aims to transform chemical engineering education by integrating cutting-edge technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and driving sustainable and socially responsible innovation.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 degree (merit or equivalent) in either Chemical Engineering or Education, or a related discipline. Evidence of research experience in terms of research projects is also desirable.

The duration of the PhD is 3 years full time (or scaled based on proportion of part time) and will ideally start in September 2026.

Funding

This project is for self-funded or externally funded students.

However, The University of Manchester offer a range of scholarships, studentships, and awards at university, faculty, and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers. For more information, visit https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/funding/ for more information on specific scholarships, studentships, and awards you may be eligible for.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.