In today’s increasingly digital world, the adoption of technology has transformed various aspects of our lives. One area that has seen a significant shift is education, particularly in the management of learning and teaching processes. However, despite increased education digitalization, supervision and management of thesis work has been one core task that is still lagging behind.
In our recent work developed in the international market, when we start having meaningful and open conversations with potential customers about Wihi, our platform for the management and supervision of thesis work, many academic staff bring us a concern, derived from digitalization misconceptions, that Wihi may decrease face-to-face (f2f) interactions between students and supervisors. In this blog post, we will debunk this assumption and explore how thesis work digitalization with Wihi actually enhances and fosters supervisor-student interactions, both f2f and remotely.
Dispelling the Misconception
Contrary to popular belief, the introduction of a platform for thesis supervision does not inherently imply that students and supervisors will limit their interactions solely to the digital interface. It is essential to understand that the platform serves as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for personal engagement. By embracing digitalization, we can address existing challenges and facilitate more effective communication and collaboration.
Enhancing Awareness and Productivity
One of the primary reasons for limited interaction between students and supervisors is a lack of awareness regarding responsibilities, tasks, and mutual expectations. Traditional methods often leave individuals uninformed, resulting in reduced productivity and avoidance of communication. However, with a dedicated platform for thesis work, all relevant information and progress updates are consolidated in one place. This increased visibility encourages both students and supervisors to seek further information, provide feedback, and clarify doubts, fostering a more productive and collaborative working environment.
Improving Relationship Quality
Effective supervision relies heavily on the quality of the relationship between students and supervisors. By streamlining the thesis work process through Wihi, students gain a clearer understanding of the progress made and the next steps to be taken. This transparency nurtures a sense of trust and accountability, thereby strengthening the bond between students and supervisors. Consequently, students feel more comfortable approaching their supervisors for f2f meetings to discuss critical points that require in-depth discussions, resulting in more meaningful interactions.
Tracking Agreements and Progress
A key advantage of Wihi is its ability to record and track agreements made between students and supervisors. By documenting decisions and milestones within the platform, both parties can easily reference previous discussions, track completed tasks, and identify future goals. This systematic approach not only reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings but also encourages ongoing interaction as students seek clarifications, feedback, and guidance from their supervisors. The platform acts as a catalyst for continuous communication and progress monitoring.
Overcoming Geographical and Communication Barriers with Flexible Communication Anytime, Anywhere
Wihi addresses the challenges posed by geographical constraints and evolving communication preferences among students by removing the barriers of time and location when it comes to communication. Many students face difficulties attending f2f meetings with their supervisors due to various reasons, such as living in different areas, cities, or even countries. Factors like distance, traffic barriers, and financial limitations can hinder their ability to engage in regular physical interactions.
With Wihi, students can reach out to their supervisors, and vice versa, from anywhere and at any time. This flexibility ensures that queries and concerns can be addressed promptly, without the need for scheduling and coordinating physical meetings. This eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly travel, ensuring that valuable interaction can take place without hindrances.
Moreover, the widespread use of social media and chat apps has led to a shift in communication preferences among the younger generation. Many students are more comfortable with written messages or audio exchanges rather than traditional phone calls. Digital platforms cater to this preference by providing various communication channels, including chat features, forums, and video conferencing. This flexibility allows students to engage in interactions that align with their communication style, fostering a more natural and comfortable means of communication.
Conclusion
It is evident that digitalizing thesis work does not diminish supervisor-student interaction; instead, it strengthens and enhances it. The misconception that such platforms lead to isolated digital interactions overlooks the numerous benefits they bring. By centralizing information, increasing workflow and progress awareness, and promoting effective communication, Wihi encourages students and supervisors to engage more frequently, both remotely and in face-to-face meetings. Embracing technology in thesis supervision empowers students, nurtures meaningful relationships, and ultimately leads to a more successful academic journey.
Finally, by embracing digitalization, thesis supervision becomes more accessible and inclusive, accommodating the needs and preferences of a diverse student body. Students no longer have to worry about the limitations imposed by distance or communication barriers. They can actively participate in meaningful discussions, seek guidance, and receive feedback conveniently through the platform, breaking down traditional barriers to interaction.