A Multivariate Analysis of Postgraduate Students’ Course Experiences: Gender, Discipline and Shift Wise Differences

Abstract

Students’ course experiences are important indicators of quality of higher education. This study aimed to explore the differences in the course experiences of postgraduate students enrolled in two different shifts (morning and afternoon) in five different départements at a public university in Lahore Pakistan. A quantitative survey research design was used and a questionnaire focusing on quality of teaching, course content, assessment, available facilities and resources, and relationship with teachers and class fellows, was administered to a sample of 368 postgraduate students. The data was analysed by applying t test and Multivariate Analysis of Covariance. The results revealed significant differences across gender, disciplines and shifts of study among all course experience scales. It is recommended that the development and implementation of the curriculum content and teaching activities should be based on the specific needs and preferences of the students in different disciplines and shifts of study for better learning outcomes.