Exploring power distance in universities: Perspectives of students on their relationships with lecturers

Power distance is a key dimension for assessing the hierarchical relationships between individuals, particularly in organizational settings such as universities, where it shapes interactions between students and lecturers. This study aims to: (1) identify manifestations of power distance in the university environment from the perspective of students, drawing on Hofstede's framework, and (2) facilitate discussions on power distance dynamics between students and lecturers. Utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, the research explores students' perceptions of power dynamics and analyzes these views in depth. Based on the findings, the study offers recommendations to foster a more balanced and collaborative relationship between students and lecturers, contributing to a more inclusive academic environment.