The SEED Tool

The Supervision Expectations & Evaluation Dialogue (SEED) tool was developed by our colleagues at the Graduate School of Life Sciences. It helps students and supervisors discuss and align expectations regarding communication, supervision and collaboration within the research project. You can find the tool here.

How to use the SEED tool

The SEED tool is designed to be used throughout the research project:

  • Step 1: Setting expectations (start of the project) Complete this step before or during the initial meeting to discuss expectations regarding e.g. guidance, communication, personal needs, and to make clear agreements. This is also a good moment to discuss the rubrics. 
  • Step 2: Reflection and evaluation (interim assessment / end of part 1) Complete this step to reflect on how the agreements are working in practice, whether expectations are met, and what needs to be adjusted. The interim assessment could be a good moment for this. 
  • Step 3: Looking back and feedback (final stages of the project) Complete this step to look back on the project and collaboration, and to exchange feedback in both directions.

Note: The tool is about continuous communication: it encourages students (and supervisors) to reflect and take action whenever needed in the process. Invite your student to use the tool to prepare for your meetings. Use the questions as a conversation starter, not as a form that must be “completed” or handed in (note: the SEED tool form does not need to be uploaded in Osiris Case).

When to use the SEED tool

While the use of the SEED tool is not mandatory,  it has proven to be a very helpful tool for both students and supervisors alike.

This tool is helpful for all students and particularly for students who:

  • are unfamiliar with (Dutch) academic culture
  • are working for the first time on a long‑term research project
  • find it difficult to discuss their needs or expectations with their supervisor

For supervisors, the tool provides a structured resource to support these conversations when needed.

About the pilot

Starting in September 2026, the GSNS is running a pilot with the SEED tool, as developed by the GSLS. For the GSNS, this pilot is part of ongoing efforts to embed the revised UU Education Model (Intranet), and in particular the graduate attributes reflection and personal leadership in the research project.

During the pilot we want to explore, together with supervisors, when and how the tool is most useful. If you have feedback or questions, please reach out to Lisanne de Jong (Education Policy) via science.gsns.policy@uu.nl. Please note that since this document was created by the GSLS, we will not make changes to the document during the pilot phase, but feedback is always welcome and will be used for further development of the SEED tool.