Problems in dissertation supervision

All supervision relationships have their problems. Some are small and some more significant. It is essential that you carefully verify that you are not simply dealing with a misunderstanding. Many problems that stem from conflicting expectations can be fixed through discussions between the supervisor and the doctoral researcher. It is important that you talk with your doctoral researcher openly and clearly. You should also keep in mind that the doctoral researcher may have a different understanding of the objectives of the supervision and practical matters. Verify that the doctoral researcher’s supervision plan is up to date and that it contains a description of the duties and responsibilities of both the supervisor(s) and the doctoral researcher. Please note that different doctoral researchers may have very different needs and wishes concerning the supervision. The amount of supervision the doctoral researcher wants and needs may also vary during the dissertation project.

Supervision relationships sometimes involve problems that cannot be solved simply by talking with the doctoral researcher. If this is the case, you should consider seeking outside help. You can contact your supervisor or the doctoral programme of your doctoral researcher. All problems are taken seriously, and the aim is always to find a quick solution that satisfies everybody involved.

Supervision is based on a hierarchical professional relationship where both parties must respect each other’s privacy. A supervision relationship requires appropriate behaviour and conduct from everyone involved.

Supervisors must treat all of the doctoral researchers equally. Special attention is paid to preventing discrimination based on grounds such as gender, national origin or age. The objective is to arrange the studies to allow doctoral researchers of any background to complete their degree. The university has a zero-tolerance policy towards all inappropriate behaviour, bullying and harassment. The university has published guidelines on the prevention of inappropriate treatment and harassment.

The following types of problems are typical in a supervision relationship:

• Delayed studies: If the doctoral researcher has problems with reaching the goals set for them, you should clarify the situation. The monitoring process and the related supervision are tools the faculties and doctoral programmes use to support and promote the progress of doctoral studies and the completion of degrees.
• Expectations: the different parties have not discussed their ideas of what supervision means and what they expect it to entail, or their expectations are contradictory.
• Meetings: one of the parties is unhappy with the number of meetings and would like the other party to prepare for them better.
• Feedback: the doctoral researcher would like to receive more detailed feedback, or the supervisor is unhappy with how the doctoral researcher utilises the feedback they receive.
• Decisions on the general direction of the work: the supervisor and the doctoral researcher cannot agree on the decisions or are unable to communicate their expectations. Supervisors disagreeing on the general direction of the dissertation may also hinder the doctoral researcher’s progress.
• Conflicts related to scientific research: different views on the scientific content, framework or practical implementation of the study.