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RSVP developing and piloting interventions - Jan - July 2025


Circular diagram illustrating the RSVP experiential learning approach for intervention development and refinement through four stages: (1) create CPD interventions drawing on empirical data and scholarship; (2) pilot interventions in different institutional contexts; (3) reflect on how the intervention landed and any factors which helped or hindered engagement; (4) revise the intervention based on shared learning of what worked in different cultures.
RSVP's iterative development cycle for our co-creation process

Since the start of 2025, the RSVP core partners have been busy developing and piloting Continuing Professional Development (CPD) interventions. We've been taking on board key learnings from our network of 58 Practitioner Partners, who have been a crucial element in establishing the evidence base for the development work. What we’ve learned from our Practitioner Partners to date includes:


  • Over 64% of institutions are interested in piloting peer observation.

  • CPD for industry and external supervisors is a top priority for many.

  • There are supervisor onboarding challenges – inconsistent enforcement; lack of structured follow-up; issues with engaging supervisors beyond initial inductions

  • The challenge of engaging experienced supervisors is a major concern.

  • Mentoring can be valuable but is currently underdeveloped. 

  • Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) must be embedded in all CPD offerings.


These insights have shaped the format and content of our CPD design, enabling us to create new CPD interventions informed by the needs of doctoral supervisors and institutions.

Each new intervention is being piloted at the developer's institute and with one or more of the core partners. During these pilots we are assessing a broad range of areas, including; the effectiveness of the materials, adaptability to a different cultural contexts and the completeness of the handover facilitation materials. Through this iterative piloting process we are intending to refine and validate materials for use before delivering these to our Practitioner Partner network for more extensive testing and evaluation.


To date, via the internal piloting with RSVP core partners, the CPD materials have been delivered to over 400 research supervisors.

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