To support the wellbeing of the online doctoral researchers in their programmes, universities and programme leads can provide…
- Advice about the time needed for a doctorate before applicants enrol.
- Support with workload planning.
- Structure and flexibility around deadlines.
- Named, friendly administrators, not a generic mailbox or ticket system
- Formal system to raise supervision issues and regular wellbeing check-ins with a third-party.
- Easily navigable online platforms and tools with support.
- Synchronous opportunities with plenty of notice that consider time zones and recordings.
- Study breaks and tailored support on return.
- Opportunities to connect with peers, including presenting work in progress.
- Clear description of supervisors’ role and sufficient supervision time.
- Systems include external supervisors when they are part of a supervision team.
- Services appropriate for online doctoral researchers, which are better articulated.
- Supervisor training in supporting wellbeing.
- Opportunities for feedback (and then act on it).