Developing accounting students' relational skills through post-graduate research-based group work

Abstract

Purpose Accounting graduates are expected to possess non-technical skills that enhance employability and support their ability to navigate the evolving accounting industry. Employers identify relational skills, such as teamwork, communication, and interpersonal abilities, as essential for graduates entering the profession. Higher education is therefore tasked with cultivating students' relational skills. This study assessed whether and how research-based group work could be utilised to develop accounting students' relational skills. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative exploratory approach was used. Thirteen interviews were conducted with postgraduate accounting students who completed research-based group work. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Specific design elements of the research-based group work facilitated the development of relational skills. These include small group sizes, year-end presentations, academic research output, peer review, supervisor interaction and the scale of the module within the honours programme. Originality/value The findings provide valuable insights for designing group work assignments that foster the holistic development of accounting graduates. This study shows that research-based group work promotes relational skills in accounting students. These insights can inform educational practices, curriculum design and professional development initiatives that aim to prepare graduates for the evolving demands of the accounting profession.