Mentoring Doctoral Students in a Developing Society

Abstract

Research activity should be carried out with utmost care, dedication, and involvement. It is here where mentoring of doctoral students by the research supervisor or guide comes into picture irrespective of the social background of the student. Objectives of the study: 1)To share the experiences regarding the supervision work of Doctoral research, 2) To identify the problems of the Doctoral students, where mentoring is needed, and 3) To suggest solutions for the problems related to mentoring of Doctoral students. The scope of the study is confined to Indian experience. Methodology and analysis: The study employed empirical methods. The data was jotted down from the research and guidance experience of the author for the past 20 years. For this study, 10 aspects were identified against which the student behavior and mentoring needs were assessed. Results of the study: There are considerable instances of misunderstanding on the part of the students, almost a majority of them do not get inclined to do collaborative research on the other hand some of the students turn out to be dropouts and do not bother to continue relation with the Department or the supervisor. The study also suggests some solutions for better mentoring process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]