Supervising to Inspire Doctoral Researchers

How I wish I had a copy of this book when I commenced my supervising career twenty years ago! It contains a wealth of information for both novice and experienced supervisors, taking the reader on a journey from how to make a good start, to the supervisor’s role in the final assessment. The authors drew not only on their own vast experience of doctoral supervision, but also on other ‘voices of experience’, and interspersed the text with useful activities, information boxes, reflection points and ‘top tips’. The volume has made me see my supervisory role in a totally new light, and has rekindled a sense of excitement and delight with being a doctoral supervisor.  I shall return to it again and again for further guidance and reflection.

-- Magda Fourie-Malherbe

This is a comprehensive reference source for any supervisor or adviser of doctoral candidates, whether new to the role or already experienced, which encourages reflective practice. The practical approach, underpinned by the authors’ considerable experience and expertise, makes this an invaluable resource. Importantly, the emphasis throughout is on the positive effects of undertaking this role and the many benefits for supervisor and supervisee when things go welll.

-- Gillian Houston

Quality supervision is an indispensable condition for a successful doctoral journey.  This book addresses the right challenges and provides a wide range of guidelines and reflections about diverse and innovative practices of doctoral supervision. Written by leading experts in the field, it is an excellent read for experienced and future supervisors and everybody else wanting to learn more about how the doctoral supervision can best support to a new generation of researchers.

-- Alexander Hasgall * European University Association (EU