Supervising Doctoral Studies
Trainingfor supervisors
Research supervision is a central aspect of the doctoral process. The quality of the collaboration between experienced researchers and doctoral candidates is a determining factor in the success and well-being of research. It has also become a complex academic practice requiring a specific set of skills.
Sensitive to this issue, the European Charter for Researchers stresses the rights and duties of both researchers in training and experienced researchers: "experienced researchers should build a constructive and positive relationship with researchers at the beginning of their careers, in order to create the conditions necessary for the effective transfer of knowledge and the successful development of researchers' careers"(p16). Our HRS4R institutional action plan addresses this issue in its missions 6 and 8.
In this context, the 10 modules of the Supervising doctoral studies program equip thesis promoters (new or more experienced) from the recruitment stage to the defense of the thesis, by exploring the fundamental principles and practice of doctoral supervision. This enables them to support their doctoral candidates in developing their skills and careers as future independent researchers.
Objectives
Developed by Epigeum in collaboration with professors and partner institutions, this training program aims to :
- Offer PhD supervisors from all faculties and disciplines a comprehensive and attractive training program, available on demand or as part of planned workshops.
- Give them a better understanding of the doctoral context and a greater awareness of the challenges of supervision,
- Help them reflect critically on best practices in supervision
- Provide them with the tools they need to guide their doctoral students towards an academic or non-academic professional project in line with their aspirations, in view of the changing job market
- Guarantee the best possible environment for doctoral candidates by supporting high-quality supervision and increasing success rates (avoiding dropouts)
Target audience
All promoters.
After a diagnostic test, each promoter can personalize his or her training path by choosing the modules most relevant to his or her needs, or take the whole course.
This training is a must for post-doctoral researchers or professors at this early stage of their career.
Content
10 modules (30-60 minutes) in English, to be followed at your own pace:
- Pre-program Diagnostic Tool: Your Experience and Priorities for Development
- Introduction: The Doctoral Context
- Attracting and Selecting Doctoral Applicants
- Research Cultures and Environments
- Managing Expectations, Responsibilities and Relationships Planning and Conducting Research
- Developing the Researcher and Enabling Progress
- Doctoral Writing and Effective Feedback
- Supporting your Candidate
- Preparing for Completion and Examination
- Developing your Supervisory Practice
Interactive graphics highlighting key concepts, videos of experts from all disciplines, case studies, practical advice... A variety of content makes learning active and engaging. Reflective activities invite participants to apply their knowledge directly to their supervisory practice.
The modular structure enables supervisors to move in and out of the program according to needs identified in the diagnostic test or in their daily practice.
How does it work?
- Visit e-campus. The Supervising doctoral studies module has been added to your courses. The course is not on e-campus? Use the form below to request registration.
- Take the diagnostic test to define your priority themes (this does not prevent you from taking all the modules if you wish)
- Start the program and progress at your own pace
Would you like to share your experiences with your peers? You have two options:
- Advance with a group of ULiège promoters: you complete the modules at your own pace and take part in three 2.30 hour meetings, scheduled between February and May 2024, to exchange views and share experiences, taking into account the specific ULiège context. More info.
- Complete the module(s) that interest(s) you and meet other participants at à la carte thematic meetings, organized between April and June 2024, to interact with other ULiège supervisors.
Practical information
The program will be available on e-Campus after registration via the link below.
