ABSTRACT
Relationships with students are obviously central to the teaching process, although collaborations between academics, other colleagues, and support staff of various kinds are also involved. Technologies are enabling sponsors of literacy in certain respects, facilitating communication en masse, but bringing with them changes in relationships between academics and their students. Academics are engaged with different communities, including disciplinary and other professional networks that extend beyond their immediate employing institution. The influence of managerialism is reflected in increased focus on accountability and demonstrating excellence in teaching, which leaves its mark on the relationships that are encouraged between academics and the various communities they engage with, including students. Digital platforms also allow academics to keep in touch and maintain “togetherness” while working separately. For early career academics in particular, continuing relationships with PhD supervisors were often influential.
