174. To be (or not to be) a Thesis Supervisor: a neglected demand

Luciano Levin, Universidad Nacional de Río Negro; Catalina Wainerman, UDESA; Catherine Manathunga, University of the Sunshine Coast; 

Thesis supervision is a growing research topic across the world. But particularly, but not exclusively in the STS field, this topic has been little worked on. Hence, the role is poorly codified and, consequently, is left to the individual interpretation of those who carry it out. At the same time, there is an unattended demand by doctoral students and junior researchers who have few training resources on this topic. Mainly in the social sciences since the analysis of the tutor/supervisee relationship has proven to be one, if not the most important factor associated with the success or failure of doctoral students, (attrition rates), especially in the execution phase of the thesis (All but dissertation), a reflection on the pedagogization of this function is warranted. In this Open Panel, we propose to discuss the definition and professionalization of the role of the thesis supervisor and the existence and orientation (bureaucratic or formative) of Supervisor training programs.

We invite proposals on the following topics

1- The definition (theoretical and actual) of the thesis supervisor role.
2- The existence of training programs for thesis supervisors all over the world, especially in Latin America. Excellent researchers not necessarily are excellent supervisors/researchers trainers.
3.-Styles of Thesis Supervision. Which ones do students appreciate/expect/value?
5- The 'contract' between supervisor and supervisee
6. Syllabus of thesis supervisors training programs: National and international studies.

Contact: lucianolevin@gmail.comcwainerm@udesa.edu.arcmanathu@usc.edu.au

Keywords: Disciplines and the Social Organization of Science and Technology, Forms and Practices of Expertise, Thesis, All but dissertation, Supervision



Published: 04/17/2023