SUPERVISOR-SUPERVISEE RELATIONSHIP A S Wamala

Introduction Challenge of low or poor completion rate Role & place of supervisees/students Role of supervisors Hence need for discourse and engagement Supervision a developmental process

Introduction cont. Focus herein or discussion: Attributes & features of effective supervision Role and function of good/effective supervision Benefits & advantages of good supervision Road blocks to good supervision

Attributes & Features of Good Supervision Supervisor a mentor. Also stewardship Trust & authority/power relationship Knowledge of subject & aptitude Relevant skills utilization Openness & humility. Academic humility and relevance Professionalism a critical requirement Respect for supervisee/student. Communication. Key to effective supervision. a) Involves timely feed back

Features & attributes cont. Communication cont. b) Intellectual support c) Clarifying expectations d) Cure to ideological disagreements e) Rights & obligations of both

Role & functions of good supervision Provides positive criticism. Makes student feel welcome Maintains effective relationship Regular and timely meetings Helps student stay on track

Advantages/Benefits Identify student’s skills & gaps early enough. Student’s academic welfare Confidence to student Builds trust in supervisor Raising student morale & confidence Helps student complete course

Maintaining good supervision Regular & timely meetings Creates good rapport with student. Timely feed back to student Respect & customer care Professionalism & ethics Proper listening skills Ensure readiness for session. Tolerance skills.

Poor/Inappropriate Supervisory Behaviour Intolerance of differences Imposing personal agenda Supervisor’s lack of motivation Lack of preparation Supervisor’s lack of knowledge, skills etc Poor time management Rigidity

Challenges to Good Supervision Administrative constraints Poor remuneration Irregular meetings between supervisor and supervisee Lack of clarity of goals and objectives Lack of ethics and professionalism Stubborn and rude supervisee

Self Evaluative Questions What are my strengths as a supervisor? What are my weaknesses as a supervisor? What feelings, perceptions or attitudes might affect my ability to supervise? Am I knowledgeable in the discipline/area am supervising? Do I ever go beyond the boundaries?