An Introduction To Postgraduate Supervision

This book provides a basic introduction to the supervision of postgraduate studies. At the centre of each discussion are examples of best practices and guidelines on how to deal with all aspects associated with postgraduate supervision. Both the postgraduate student and the novice supervisor are targeted in this book, although seasoned supervisors could also benefit from the reflections. In the development of a supervision culture a comprehensive research guide is needed.

This book is a very important contribution to theÿgrowing body of work on postgraduate,ÿand specificallyÿdoctoral, education ... I find the metaphor ofÿpushing boundaries to be very appropriate, as itÿsuggests a field of study and a range of behavioursÿand institutional organisational approaches toÿpostgraduate education that are dynamic andÿcharacterised by fluidity, creativity and challengeÿ... Readers will gain new theoretical perspectives,ÿideas for improved practice, and fresh perspectivesÿon boundaries and pressing issues that deserve toÿbe pushed and conceptualised in new ways. -ÿProfessor Ann Austin (Higher, Adult and Lifelong EducationÿMichigan State University)

What kind of problems are encountered while undertaking postgraduate study? How are these problems best avoided or resolved? How can the student/supervisor relationship be improved? This practical guide is based on a series of successful workshops on postgraduate supervision and presents the most frequently encountered difficulties in the student/supervisor relationship. Detailed but concise case studies offer realistic solutions to the thirty issues discussed, including: Conflict Culture Distance Funding Isolation Language Management Plagiarism Priority Time Transfer Write-up Each case study raises important questions to generate discussion, and suggests solutions and preventative measures. The book also includes a section that shows how the case studies can be used in a teaching workshop setting. Effective Postgraduate Supervision is essential reading for supervisors of postgraduate degrees including those at masters and doctoral level as well as prospective and current postgraduate research students.

This anthology concerns itself with the relationships between postgraduate research candidates and their supervisors. It includes approximately 50 contributors, both candidates and supervisors (many writing collaboratively), reflecting upon the pleasures and perplexing dynamics of supervisory relations. Personal anecdotes are presented alongside critical reflections and pedagogical theorizing. Specific chapters address topics like gender, creative theses, library representation, power and voice, mentoring, transcultural supervision, and the co-construction of knowledge. Annotation copyrighted by Book News Inc., Portland, OR.

Key Factors in Postgraduate Research Supervision - A Guide for Supervisors is designed to inform and support university academics and researchers who are taking on the responsibilities of postgraduate research student supervision. It is aimed at early career professionals, who may be undertaking supervision for the first time, and also experienced supervisors seeking to develop a more formal framework for their supervision, in an increasingly complex academic environment. The objective of the book is to help supervisors create the complete postgraduate student. That is, an individual who can develop the rigors and disciplines of research conduct and research writing, as well as a broader understanding of the environment in which many postgraduate qualified professionals will work. The majority of postgraduate research students in the modern world ultimately use their acquired skills to work outside the university research environment, so emphasis is given to preparing research students for these varied roles, which can include management; commercial research or start-up company pathways. Any competent academic can be a good research supervisor when things are going well. Real supervisory skills only come into play when things have gone awry. That is when a professional and structured approach to problem solving and conflict resolution is required. This book seeks to provide the framework in which supervisors can develop such an approach. The topics covered in this text cover the spectrum of the supervisory process, from understanding the university research environment, through to recruiting students; induction; planning of the research program; peer review and thesis/dissertation preparation. Additionally, important peripheral issues, such as preparing graduates for various future roles; managing collaborative research programs; managing cases of misfeasance, and developing long-term relationships with students are also covered.