Managing Expectations in the Transition to Postgraduate Research: Setting up Successful Supervisory Relationships

Abstract

This online discussion, led by colleagues from the University of Central Lancashire and Edge Hill University, will examine the importance of establishing a good supervisory relationship in the early stages of the transition from taught to research led education.

Postgraduate researchers might not complete their research degree if they fail to meet the criteria and expectations associated with their particular degree award. Equally, problems can occur if student-supervisor expectations are not met. Much has been written about completion rates and drop out trends in the context of postgraduate research and universities are inevitably keen to improve these quality markers. It is widely considered that proper induction, training, clear supervisory guidelines, annual monitoring, and pastoral support are all needed to provide a nurturing environment for postgraduate researchers. However, getting clear on university/supervisor expectations, and managing learning relationships at doctoral level, appears to be critical to ‘getting off on the right foot’ and ‘staying on track’.