Factors contributing to slow completion rate among postgraduate students of the Information Studies Programme at the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This study was carried out to examine causes of slow completion among postgraduate students of the Information Studies Programme at the University of Dar es Salaam. The study used both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. It involved 61 respondents, including 56 postgraduate students involved in a questionnaire survey and 5 lecturers interviewed. Findings revealed that the majority of students took more than the university-stipulated time to complete their studies. Factors responsible include students’ failure to comprehend comments from supervisors, poor relationships between students and supervisors, multiple roles and a poor research environment. Incompetence in research skills and financial constraints were also noted to contribute to slow completion. The study concludes that slow completion among students is not a function of a single factor. Addressing these factors is critical in enhancing the timely completion of studies. Accordingly, this study recommends that the programme should create supportive learning environment for its students such that learning outcomes are improved.