From isolation to collaboration: A positive change for postgraduate women?

Social or intellectual isolation has been identified as a problem for many postgraduate students, particularly among subgroups in which women predominate. Newly developing collaborative postgraduate student groups complement the supervisor's role as an advisor and counteract the effects of isolation. However, the very method that may reduce isolation for women also entails risks. Research into gender and communication suggests that groups, often dominated by men, may not adequately serve the educational needs of women. This article brings together two separate strands of research: (a) studies of support groups, collaborative groups, or supervisory groups for thesis-writers; and (b) studies of gender-related communication patterns. The intersection of these areas of research provides a basis for suggesting how arrangements for, and research into, collaborative support groups for thesis writers can help to ensure that the potential of such groups for enhancing educational opportunities for all students—womens as well as men—is tapped and possible risks minimized.