Co-Supervision in Doctoral Studies: What Is It About?

Abstract

As a part of the LTH Docent Course Spring 2024, this group project interviewed both co-supervisors and doctoral students to understand the roles of co-supervisors in doctoral studies.

The study revealed significant variation in co-supervisors' roles across different projects, as confirmed by both students and co-supervisors. The research focused on co-supervisors' activities and levels of engagement, ranging from peripheral involvement to substantial contribution to the student's research and academic progress.

Responsibilities typically lean towards the main supervisor, according to interviewees. Many believe that co-supervisors adapt their roles based on student needs, fostering a dynamic learning environment, and supporting both the main supervisor and student.

However, the process of selecting co-supervisors and defining their activities lacks formalisation, with limited student involvement. Some suggest clarifying roles and expectations from the project's onset and maintaining ongoing discussions to prevent confusion and ensure structured meetings.

Suggestions include explicit discussion of supervision roles in the Individual Study Plan (ISP) and the possibility of having two main supervisors to recognise deeply engaged co-supervisors. Overall, clearer roles and structured communication could enhance the student experience in doctoral studies.