A neglected area: supervision development opportunities for doctoral researchers involved in undergraduate and masters project mentoring

Abstract

This paper calls for consideration of appropriate support and development for doctoral research students involved in supervision of undergraduate and Master’s degree projects. This subgroup’s professional development tends to be neglected in academic development and the related literature. The paper describes a development workshop offered regularly to this group over four years. Presenting evaluation and focus group data, the authors argue that although institutional structures can inhibit such development activities, there are benefits to PhD students, project students, and lead supervisors when doctoral research students’ supervision is validated and supported. They call for further research and development provision in this area.