The ethical boundaries of postgraduate supervision: Navigating influence, coercion, and academic integrity. A qualitative multi-case study.

Abstract

Background
Postgraduate supervision is a critical academic relationship that shapes the scholarly development and professional identity of emerging researchers. However, ethical tensions, such as coercion in co-authorship, unbalanced power dynamics, and compromised academic integrity, can challenge the quality and fairness of this relationship. Despite growing concerns, limited research has examined the lived experiences of both students and supervisors in navigating these ethical boundaries within South African higher education. This study explores how postgraduate supervision practices uphold or undermine ethical standards in this context.

 Methods
A qualitative multi-case study design was employed across two South African public universities between February and April 2025. A purposive sample of 24 participants was selected, comprising 14 postgraduate students (8 Master’s, 6 PhD) and 10 supervisors from the faculties of Science, Humanities, and Education. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews and two focus group discussions.

 Results
Three key themes emerged: (1) Power Asymmetry and Implicit Coercion in Publication Authorship, where students reported feeling compelled to include supervisors as co-authors regardless of contribution; (2) Lack of Transparency in Expectations and Assessment, with both parties citing unclear guidelines regarding supervision roles; and (3) Institutional Silence on Ethical Breaches, where misconduct often went unaddressed due to weak policy enforcement. Social demographics showed that students ranged in age from 24 to 42 years (mean = 32), with 9 females and 5 males, while supervisors ranged from 38 to 61 years (mean = 49), with 6 males and 4 females.

 Conclusion
Ethical lapses in supervision are often rooted in systemic failures, including poor governance, policy gaps, and unaddressed power imbalances. These issues undermine student autonomy and academic integrity.

 Recommendations
Universities should enforce robust ethical supervision policies, mandate ethics training for supervisors, and implement transparent co-authorship agreements.