orientandos

Orientandos are individuals who receive supervision from a faculty member within a higher education or research setting. In Portuguese-speaking universities, the term specifically refers to graduate students—such as those enrolled in master's or doctoral programs—who undertake a research project under the guidance of an orientador (supervisor). The plural form orientandos denotes multiple such mentees. While most commonly used in Brazil and Portugal, the concept also appears in other lusophone contexts and, more broadly, in graduate programs worldwide under equivalent terms such as advisees or mentees.

Roles and responsibilities: The orientando develops a research plan, conducts literature review, collects and analyzes data, and writes theses, dissertations, or scientific papers. They participate in regular meetings with the orientador, present progress updates, and comply with institutional rules on research ethics, data management, authorship, and deadlines. The orientador provides intellectual guidance, helps refine the research design, guides funding opportunities, offers methodological training, and evaluates progress.

Relationship and formalization: The supervision arrangement is typically formalized through a research project agreement, a supervisory plan, and periodic evaluations. The relationship emphasizes scholarly development, critical feedback, and career planning, and may involve co-supervisors (coorientadores) depending on the program.

Outcomes and variations: Successful completion leads to degrees, defense, and potential publications. The exact duties and expectations vary by institution, program, and country, reflecting local academic cultures. The concept of orientandos shares similarities with supervisees or advisees in other education systems.