Supervision and information and communication technology (ICT)

Abstract

This chapter examines how information and communication technology (ICT) is developing in supervision. One perspective on development suggests that both synchronous and asynchronous technologies play an important role in the development of cyber supervision. Another perspective suggests that the presence of ethical standards in some countries provides practice guidelines for people using technology-assisted supervision. Although applications of ICT in supervision practice seem to be increasing, there are still many issues to be explored in the future. The issues include standardization of technology-assisted distance supervision, the measurement of e-supervision and e-learning outcomes, the building of a working relationship in an online supervision practice, and the supervision skills and approaches needed in technology-assisted distance supervision. The contemporary problems facing the development of cyber supervision include: 1) quality issues in using technology, and 2) insufficient understanding of the effectiveness and limitations of cyber supervision. Further research on technology-assisted supervision is needed.