Supervision Issues
Students and supervisors are encouraged to talk with each other about how they will work together, what the student’s needs are, how the student can ask for help, and where support is available. Communication is key.
Most problems stem from a different perspective of what the student needs. Identifying student expectations at the beginning of the students research can avoid many of these issues. Discussions of what the student expects from a supervisor, how often they will meet, turn around times on work, plans to address student needs and skill deficits and a timeline are useful in all the team understanding how the research course will be undertaken.
If there is a problem, it is recommended that:
- The student discusses the issue with their supervisor. In many cases, issues can be resolved when discussed.
- The student discusses the issue with the supervisor and co-supervisor. A meeting of all supervisors can assist in discussing the issue and developing a future plan.
- The student discusses the issue with the postgraduate coordinator. If the postgraduate coordinator is the supervisor, the student should go to the Head of Department. The postgraduate coordinator will follow up this discussion with the supervisors involved and may recommend a discussion involving all parties.
- The student discusses the issue with the Head of Department. The Head of Department will act to address such a situation.
- The student file a formal complaint with the Head of Department.