Strategising PhD supervision in Ukrainian higher education

Abstract

AbstractThis article explores the implications of the national, organisational and individual cultural dimensions for the strategies of PhD supervisors. The intended outcome of PhD supervision is considered to be a doctoral graduate with advanced research skills as well as an original contribution to knowledge production. Data emanate from the interviews with 12 doctoral supervisors from several disciplines affiliated with one of the leading Ukrainian universities. The PhD supervisors were interviewed in April-June 2018. The study findings indicate that, firstly, institutional and cultural complexities which refer to the lack of favourable conditions for doctoral supervision hinder PhD supervisors from achieving the intended outcome. Secondly, the strategic goals and adopted courses of action of PhD supervisors also depend on their values, beliefs, knowledge and skills and if they are unrelated to the intented outcome of PhD supervision it hinders the PhD candidates from acquiring advanced research skills as well as making an original contribution to knowledge production.