Handledaren

Handledaren is a person who supervises and mentors a learner in a formal setting. The term is common in Sweden and other Swedish-speaking contexts and can refer to a supervisor, tutor, or mentor who supports learning and professional development.

Typical responsibilities include planning learning activities, providing ongoing feedback, monitoring progress, and evaluating performance. The handledaren also ensures safety and ethical conduct, safeguards privacy and confidentiality when appropriate, and helps the learner reflect on their practice. The relationship is usually formalized through a learning plan or supervision agreement with regular meetings.

Contexts of use include higher education (for example thesis supervision), teacher education and practicum placements, and professional training in health care, social work, engineering, and other fields. In workplaces, the handledaren helps with onboarding, skill development, and integration into professional routines, acting as a bridge between the learner and the organization.

Qualifications typically include substantial professional experience in the relevant field. Many programmes require some form of training in supervision or mentoring, and expectations often include knowledge of professional ethics, privacy and safety regulations, and the ability to provide constructive feedback and assess progress.

In practice, the role is defined by agreements with educational institutions or employers, and it relies on clear communication, defined responsibilities, and mutual respect. Effective handling requires awareness of power dynamics, confidentiality, and the learner's learning goals.