Module 6

Topics:

1. Developing a Reflective Approach to Research Supervision

2. Strategies for Continuous Improvement as a Supervisor

3. Balancing Supervisory Roles with Personal Research Goals

Activities:

1. Pre-learning: Assigned Readings on Reflective Practice

2. Reflection-Café: In a "speed dating" style, we will move from table to table and discuss one or two items that each student selects from their Reflective Journal as a discussion point. The idea here is that each student will get multiple insights into the item from multiple students (60 minutes).

3. Case Studies and Discussion Based on Reflective Journaling Related to Supervision Experiences (30 minutes)

4. Development of Personal Supervision Philosophy Statements (30 minutes)

5. Post-learning: Write your Supervision Philosophy.

Instructions

A Supervisory Philosophy is typically a 1-2 page document (around 500-1000 words) that outlines a supervisor's approach to guiding and mentoring students. It serves as a reflective statement about how the supervisor views their role, their values, and their strategies for effective supervision. The length can vary, but it should be concise while covering key areas that reflect the supervisor’s beliefs and practices.

Common Content:

Introduction and Personal Beliefs

• A brief introduction that describes your motivation for supervising and mentoring students.

• Personal values or beliefs about learning, teaching, and mentorship.

• A statement about what you hope to achieve as a supervisor (e.g., fostering independent thinking, ethical research practices, etc.).

Roles and Responsibilities of a Supervisor

• How you view your role in guiding students (e.g., as a coach, mentor, facilitator).

• The balance between giving students autonomy and providing guidance.

• Expectations for students, including their responsibilities in the research relationship.

• Your philosophy on balancing support with challenge (helping students grow through constructive feedback and accountability).

Supervision and Communication Style

• How you prefer to communicate with students (e.g., open-door policy, scheduled meetings, feedback methods).

• Strategies you use to promote effective communication, problem-solving, and collaboration.

• Your approach to providing feedback and fostering a positive research environment.

Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (EDI)

• How you ensure that your supervision is inclusive, equitable, and supportive of diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

• Steps you take to create an environment where all students feel respected and valued.

• Your approach to mitigating unconscious bias and fostering a diverse research team.

Mentorship and Professional Development

• How you mentor students in their academic, professional, and personal development.

• The ways you help students build skills, confidence, and independence in research.

• How you guide students in developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Any strategies for promoting work-life balance and well-being among your students.

Ethical Considerations and Research Integrity

• Your commitment to promoting ethical research practices.

• How you address ethical dilemmas in supervision.

• Encouraging students to maintain high standards of academic integrity and responsible research.

Reflective Practice and Continuous Improvement

• Your own commitment to continuous learning and improvement as a supervisor.

• How you reflect on your supervisory practices and adjust based on student feedback or changing circumstances.