Guide to Structured Self-Reflection — Associate Supervisor

Kay Guccione

Head of Research Culture & Researcher Development, University of Glasgow

Elizabeth Adams

Coach with specialisms in Research Culture & Researcher Development

Stan Taylor

Honorary Professor, School of Education, University of Durham and Honorary Life Member of the UKCGE

Guidance for those involved in supervision, but who have not seen a doctoral candidate through the examination process.

How to use this document

This document guides you through the process of reflecting on your supervisory practice and provides examples of how you might evidence the required 5 criteria of good practice if you wish to apply to become a UKCGE Recognised Associate Research Supervisor.

Completing Your Reflection: Core and Elective Criteria

Using the Reflective Account Form complete an evidence-based reflection on your practice covering 5 of the 10 criteria of good-supervisory practice.

The required criteria, which must be fully evidenced, are:

  • The 3 core criteria (criteria 2, 3 and 10): These are considered to be essential foundational experiences for all supervision relationships and all are required to be evidenced.
  • 2 out of the 4 elective criteria (criteria 4, 5 7 and 9): You may choose the two most relevant to your experience.

In your reflective account, under each of the 5 main headings, give one or two examples of your practice, citing the supporting literature where relevant.

If you intending to apply for the Recognised Associate Supervisor award you also need to observe a supervision meeting, and reflect on this encounter, as part of your application. 

This takes the form of a completed Supervision Observation Report which is then reflected on as part of the evidence for criterion 10: Reflecting upon and enhancing practice”.

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