Supervising Research Students

Supervising research students often happens before we realise it… undergraduate project students, Masters level and even PhD project supervision often occur informally for many years before we finally assume full responsibility.

What are our responsibilities in supervision and how can we most effectively support our research students?

As a new supervisor are you clear about what you are expecting them to achieve and exactly how will it happen?

As a more experienced supervisor do you wish you had the confidential and knowledgeable space to discuss the difficult cases?

This workshop will explore the planning for and mechanics of motivating and directing a student, particularly those studying for a PhD.

Participants in this workshop will learn the value of planning a research project with measurable outcomes, clarifying the requirements of the University and outlining the responsibilities of both the students and their supervisor(s). They will learn strategies for management and have a range of techniques for monitoring the progress of their students.

At the end of this workshop participants will

  • Understand the requirements of the University during a 3 or 4 year study period
  • Be clear on their responsibilities as a PhD supervisor
  • Know the responsibilities of a PhD student
  • Understand how to influence behaviour and motivation
  • Have clear plans for monitoring student progress

See Comments from previous participants below or return to the Workshops Page:

The supervision workshop was really useful, enabling me to formalize the structures of supervision and gain from the experience of Dr Collins. Learning techniques that have a proven record will not only benefit me by building my confidence but will further enhance the experience of the students I supervise. The interactive nature of the workshop allowed all participants to discuss existing supervision structures to evaluate and modify these rather than simply starting anew which I feel is important for allowing individual styles of supervision to develop. A highly recommended workshop, even for those with substantial supervisory experience.
Dr Paul Nash

 

I attended the course as I have two PhD students starting this year and I wanted to learn more about how to supervise them effectively. I have supervised students in the past, but not formally, and I had not received any formal training. The course was just what I needed. It was delivered in an enjoyable way, at a good pace, and the tutor was knowledgeable and engaged us in discussions. She used a range of teaching techniques, and the questions posed to us helped me to think my way around being a supervisor, using examples from what I had learned from my own experience of being a student and of supervising others. I would not hesitate to recommend the course to others who are involved in supervising research students.
Dr Kerina Jones