Exploring Supervision Program: undertaking the full module

With the approval of their Head of School, academic staff can enrol in the 'full module' of the Exploring Supervision program. Attending a series of face-to-face workshops and undertaking independent research and reflection, staff who successfully complete the program qualify for principal HDR supervisor status.

Learn more about this program by clicking on the questions below, and/or follow the quick links to access further information.

QUICK LINKS:  |  TIMETABLE  |   ENROLMENT FORM  |  FULL MODULE REQUIREMENTS  | 

Who can take part in the full module?
The full module of the Exploring Supervision program is aimed specifically at academic staff who are involved in, or planning to be involved in, HDR supervision. However, other staff and affiliates, as well as current HDR candidates, who believe they could benefit from taking the program are welcome to contact us to discuss options.

How much time will it take?
The Exploring Supervision program is a significant demand on your time, and you will need to plan appropriately for it. You should think of it as equivalent (almost!) to taking a unit in a postgraduate certificate program. For 2010 & 2011 we have rescheduled the program so that you have more choices for taking the face-to-face workshops outside of the teaching semester.  But you will still need to allocate a proper amount of time to read about issues, and to research, write up and submit the required assignment and research project tasks.

Will it qualify me to be a Principal HDR Supervisor?
Staff who successfully complete the full module are eligible for registration as a principal HDR supervisor. However, there is a proviso: they will be required to have as a co-supervisor an experienced colleague who must be responsible for a minimum of 40% of the supervision; this condition will apply until they have their first PhD completion. (Read more here about supervisor registration policies.)

How much does it cost?
Nothing! We even give you morning tea (with real coffee).

So why do I need Head of School approval?
It is important that your Head of School is aware of the time/task commitment that the program requires of you. And it is important that you talk to your Head of School about your plans and prospects for principal HDR supervision upon successful completion of the program. That's why we ask for the Head of School's approval - to ensure that you have discussed these issues together. You can download the Head of School approval form here.

What other benefits can I expect from taking the program?
In addition to providing a pathway to principal HDR supervisor status, the program has a range of other benefits. Program participants in preceding years have commented favorably on the very positive benefits of sharing their supervisory experiences with colleagues and of working collaboratively on the analysis and resolution of case study material. Participants have also reported favorably on the array of practical supervisory tools and strategies that are worked through in the program, and on the exposure to the wealth of scholarly literature now available in the research education field.

In general, successful completion of the program should equip you with fundamental skills and knowledges required for effective HDR supervision in the modern university environment. And you might just make some connections with new colleagues and potential collaborators.


What are the program requirements?
You are required to undertake the following tasks. For full details on these tasks, including due dates, formatting/media options etc. please see our program requirements page.

1. Attend the three Exploring Supervision workshops (4 each)
2. Attend the HDR Supervisors Induction Workshop (3 hrs)
3. Maintain a journal reflecting on supervision issues & practices (minimum 1500 words, or equivalent)
4. Complete a short assignment (minimum 750 words, or equivalent)
5. Undertake a short research project, to be reported on via a 30 minute conference-type presentation.

What happens when I have successfully completed the program?
When you have successfully completed the program we will write to advise you, and will invite you to apply for Principal Supervisor status. We will also give you a certificate of completion.

Can I take the program over several semesters?
We prefer that you attend the workshops and complete your short assignments within a twelve month period; you should also plan to present your research project within about eighteen months of commencing the program. Our experience is that this delivers you the best learning outcomes. However, if you are absolutely unable to complete within this time frame, we are able, in some circumstances, to accommodate your needs. Please contact us to discuss this.

Can you run a tailored version of the full module for my School / Discipline / Faculty?
Yes, this is certainly possible, depending on available time and resources, as well as the number of people who might be able to attend. Please contact us to discuss possibilities - we are keen to talk to you about this.