Understanding PhD Supervisor Feedback for Success
Supervisor feedback is an integral part of the PhD journey, offering valuable insights and guidance to PhD candidates. However, not all feedback is created equal. Understanding the different types of feedback, you may receive from your supervisor and knowing how to effectively respond to each can enhance your academic progress and success while helping you maintain your composure.
In this blog post, I will explore five common types of supervisor feedback and strategies for making the most of them. Drawing from my experience as both a PhD student and a PhD supervisor, I will provide insights into effectively navigating supervisor feedback.
1. Direct/straightforward feedback:
Direct and straightforward feedback involves clear instructions, specific suggestions, and actionable advice. When your supervisor provides this type of feedback, consider yourself fortunate. Embrace this feedback by acknowledging it, asking clarifying questions if needed, and implementing suggested changes in your work.
2. Suggestions:
Supervisor feedback may include valuable suggestions aimed at enhancing your research or improving your approach. These suggestions can provide fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to enrich your work. When evaluating suggestions from your supervisor, consider their relevance and feasibility within the context of your research goals.
Key thing to remember here is that suggestion does not necessitate action. After careful assessment, take it or leave it. Be prepared to justify your decision either way.
3. Vague/general feedback:
Vague and general feedback can be frustrating to receive, as it often lacks specificity and clarity. When faced with this type of feedback, resist the urge to become discouraged. Instead, seek clarification from your supervisor by asking specific questions and providing examples to guide the discussion. Take the initiative to propose potential solutions based on your interpretation of the feedback and be open to refining your approach based on further guidance.
4. Unnecessary feedback:
Occasionally, supervisor feedback may include unnecessary comments or personal preferences that do not directly contribute to the advancement of your research. While it's good to consider all feedback carefully, it's equally important to differentiate between valuable insights and unnecessary distractions. When faced with unnecessary feedback, respectfully acknowledge your supervisor's perspective while maintaining focus on your research objectives.
5. Conflicting feedback:
Conflicting feedback, characterised by contradictory statements or differing opinions amongst supervisors, can be particularly challenging. When confronted with conflicting feedback, resist the temptation to become overwhelmed. Instead, seek clarification from your supervisors, and identify common themes or underlying concerns. Consider proposing compromises or alternative solutions that accommodate different perspectives while staying aligned with your research objectives.
Take home message:
Supervisor feedback plays an important role in shaping your PhD journey, offering valuable insights and guidance to support your growth and development as a researcher. Understanding the various types of feedback, you may encounter and knowing how to respond to each is essential. Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth and learning but remember not all feedback holds equal weight.
