Subheading: Graduate School Seminar addresses Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Doctoral Training: Communication, Independence, and Resilience Building

Three distinguished EdUHK scholars shared their insights into doctoral supervision in a GS-hosted online workshop on March 25. The seminar aimed to help doctoral students and supervisors better understand each other’s roles, share effective communication and mentoring strategies, and enhance the quality of academic collaboration. The three speakers, Professor Bill Yeung Chi-ho, Dr Angel Ma Qing, and Dr Alfredo Bautista, were introduced by Professor Michelle Gu Mingyue, the Dean of the Graduate School.

The first speaker, Professor Yeung, emphasised the importance of getting to know his supervisees by asking them early on why they want to study a PhD or EdD. As a renowned researcher in physics, AI, and STEM education and a past winner of the EdUHK’s President’s Award for Teaching Excellence, Professor Yeung reminded students to be open-minded.

The linguist, Dr Ma, mentioned that supervisors should check students’ backgrounds, research skills, and publications. She said potential supervisors should arrange a short interview before encouraging the student to start the doctoral application process. Dr Ma noted that supervisors need to make a long-term commitment to monitor students’ well-being and offer emotional support.

Dr Bautista, who specialises in curriculum, pedagogy and teacher professional development, listed 10 tips to cultivate doctoral students’ development, learning, and well-being. As Dr Bautista explained each point, he stressed the importance of being approachable, friendly, and available.

The event concluded with a Q and A session moderated by Professor Gu. The final part of the seminar allowed participants to clarify some of the speakers’ points. The GS will continue to organise and host events that strengthen supervisor-student relationships.