What will be the status of the RDS in the QAA Code of practice: will institutions have to comply with it?

Please note: the Researcher Development Statement is an evolution of the JSS, highlighting the range of knowledge, skills, behaviours and personal qualities which the Councils expect researchers to develop over the course of their training. A much more detailed Framework is being developed, which is intended as a tool for researchers and HEIs to assist in planning, promoting and supporting the personal, professional and career development of researchers in higher education.

The Researcher development statement (RDS) is an evolution of the Joint skills statement (JSS). It is anticipated that the RDS would be incorporated into the code of practice, replacing the JSS in a similar way[1] .  As currently with the JSS, there is no expectation that HEIs need to provide formal training opportunities for researchers for all areas identified within the RDS. The JSS is provided as guidance to institutions to use as appropriate:

‘Institutions will wish to use their experience of structured training and education to establish personal and professional development opportunities for the benefit of students. The extent to which research students are required to take advantage of these opportunities will normally be negotiated through the supervision process, taking account of subject and individual needs.’(Section One, Precept 19 guidance)

For more information on the relationship between the RDS and the QAA Code of practice go to QAA

[1] The QAA currently are inviting discussion on the future development of the Academic Infrastructure. Until this is complete there will not be revision of any sections of the Code of practice. Further details and a discussion paper can be found at www.qaa.ac.uk/news/media/pressReleases/250210.asp