To be in regular and prearranged communication with their supervisor. To seek and accept advice. This does not mean a slavish adherence to a supervisor's ideas, but to accept that supervisors do have expertise in research and related matters and that their advice should be given the most careful consideration. A supervisor should be informed of significant problems that affect the quality of a student's research. To discuss any academic problems immediately they arise.
Supervisors can then assist as appropriate.
To meet agreed deadlines during research, writing drafts, submission. To participate in the research culture of their unit. This means keeping in touch with the unit, being aware of and attending appropriate seminars by staff and visiting speakers, student functions. The unit should keep students informed about such activities, but students should also make the effort to find out what is happening, especially if they spend periods off the campus. Units should also arrange for research students to give seminars on their research at an appropriate time.