Supervising Phenomenology: Expertise, Curiosity and Shared Learning with Professor Hilary Engward

What happens when a doctoral student chooses phenomenology, but their supervisor’s own methodological expertise lies elsewhere?In this episode of The Phenomenology Collective, we explore the possibilities—and responsibilities—of supervising phenomenological research beyond one’s principal methodological specialism.We’re joined by Professor Hilary Engward, an experienced doctoral supervisor whose own methodological background is principally in grounded theory. Hilary reflects on how supervisors can support phenomenological researchers through curiosity, critical questioning and a willingness to learn alongside the student—without pretending to possess every answer.In this episode, we discuss:Why the research question should guide the choice of methodologyWhat it means to “stick to the methodology like glue”Balancing creativity with methodological rigourSupervising beyond your expertise Learning to think and communicate phenomenologicallyThe importance of finding a wider phenomenological communityThis conversation reminds us that good supervision does not depend upon one person knowing everything. It requires intellectual humility, shared responsibility and a willingness to remain genuinely curious.