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A SHORT OVERVIEW OF SUPERVISION OUTCOME
RESEARCH: METHODICAL AND PRACTICAL ISSUES
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ZSUZSANNA MIRNICS
ABSTRACT
Supervision is an effective method of personal and professional development.
However, this method lacks a common theoretical background. Though research
initiatives have addressed various specific questions, the evidence base for
supervision is presently weak. Definitional problems, variability of context
and other methodical debates affect possibilities of outcome measurement.
Based on the literature of supervision, counselling and psychotherapy, in the
present article, several measurement methods are presented. Questionnaires
and interviews, as well as objective data may be collected from supervisors,
supervisees and the community; also, experimental designs can be used as well.
Until an evidence-based approach in supervision develops, the present practice
may be based on critical factors drawn from "practice based evidence’, e.g. the
importance of supervision relationship, feedback and active learning.
DEFINITION
Supervision is a process between someone called the supervisor and another
person referred to as the supervisee and it is usually aimed at enhancing the
helping effectiveness of the person supervised. It may include acquisition
of practical skills, mastery of theoretical or technical knowledge, achieving
personal and/or professional development.’ Supervision is reflective learning to
improve practice through thinking about experiences and analysing/discussing
assumptions and perceptions that underpin practice. It is the appropriate place
! Ferguson, K., ‘Professional Supervision’, in M. Rose — D. Best (eds.), Transforming Practice
through Clinical Education, Professional Supervision and Mentoring, Edinburgh, Elsevier
Churchill Livingstone, 2005.