PHD Workshop Prof Ghassan

RESEARCH WORKSHOPS
Tips and tricks for a successful PhD

Monday 17th November 2008 Seminar Room, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
How to succeed in doing a PhD: personal experiences

A PhD is a journey of discovery & fun
Professor Ghassan Aouad Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation Brian Meichen, Director of Business Development University of Salford g.aouad@salford.ac.uk
Confidence!!!
Completed PhD in 1991 External Examiner to 37 PhDs and 4 MPhils Internal Examiner to 9 PhDs Successfully supervised17 PhDs, 2 MPhils & 1 Mres over the last 14 years
Why are you doing a PhD?

Is it for the title? What is your strategy? Do you like research/ academia? (Need to have an overall picture) Better future prospect To support your teaching To get some promotion Out of curiosity
Robust Methodology (Amanda and Ghassan) Clear aim, objectives, hypothesis, research Questions Good data collection and analysis methods Comprehensive literature review, Critical Analysis Well presented, Interesting findings Strong Validation, Good reflections Good use of appendices Confidence, Other researchers will use as a reference Work already published Original findings Appropriate structure of chapters (flow) Writing style (exciting) Evidence based, Well scoped (focus) Intellectuality and creativity are evident Strong theoretical underpinnings Researching a phenomena Refereed journal papers as references Contribution to knowledge clearly described
Reflections
Good PhDs
Weak PhDs
Reflections
(Amanda and Ghassan)
Weak methodology Ambiguity in defining the aim, objectives, Weak data collection and analysis methods Superficial literature review Superficial analysis Badly presented (spelling) Findings are not clearly reported No validation No reflections Bad use of appendices Bad Performance at viva Arrogance and ignorance Other researchers will not use as a reference No publications before viva Expected findings No structure (flow) No excitement in the writing style Opinion based (unsupported statements) No scope, all over the place No intellectuality or creativity Weak theoretical underpinnings Reporting on a piece of software Conference papers and reports Contribution to knowledge is not sufficiently addressed Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
Start
Research Process and Milestones
Identification of the PROBLEM
LITERATURE REVIEW (Information from Existing knowledge) THE GAP and THE RATIONALE OF RESEARCH What is your contribution to knowledge?
Definition of the AIM Establish Objectives and Hypothesis

Develop Research Plan
Identification of the research population Identification of data to be collected Identification of means of data collection Identification of means of data analyses
Quantitative qualitative Questionnaires, interviews, survey Content analyses NViVo or SPSS
Development of model/ frame work / and Evaluation
Contribution to existing knowledge Contribution to existing knowledge Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
Write up Conclusion
The 2nd 6 months

Some Stability
The first 6 months

Some Confusion
The 2nd year
Good Productivity
Looking Back
The final year

Some Impatience Some Anxiety Some Satisfaction
My Own Experience
Useful References
Useful References
Advanced Research Methods in the Built Environment EDITED BY ANDREW KNIGHT & LES RUDDOCK
The ultimate book we have all been waiting for
Research Approach
An email with two questions was sent to around 50 staff/RFs (mainly PhD holders) Response rate of 56% Content Analysis (see slides from 40-59)
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process Three things we shouldnt do as part of the PhD process
Never give up Get published Keep Reading Focus
Get organised
Mentoring
Networking
Relationship with supervisor
Good Methodology
Directions
Dealing with problems Rigour
Ownership
Encouragement
Think out of the box
Defending Your PhD
Good Methodology
We all bring (often implicit?!) assumptions and path dependencies to our research!
What knowledge is ontology How we know it epistemology What values go into it axiology How we write about it rhetoric The process of studying it methodology
(Sexton 2002)
Dimensions of research philosophy: Bringing it all together! (Sexton, 2002) Realism Idealism Positivism
A search for general laws and cause-effect relationships by rational means
A commonly experienced external reality with predetermined nature and structure
An unknowable reality perceived in different ways by individuals
Ontology
Epistemology
Value neutral
Research is value free and objective
Interpretivism
A search for explanations of human action by understanding the way in which the world is understood by individuals
Value-biased
Research is valueladen and subjective Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
Locating some common methods

Realism
A commonly experienced external reality with predetermined nature and structure
Idealism
An unknowable reality perceived in different ways by individuals
Positivism
A search for general laws and cause-effect relationships by rational means
Ontology Epistemology
Objectivist approaches
Experiment Case study Action research Ethnography Subjectivist approaches
Interpretivism
A search for explanations of human action by understanding the way in which the world is understood by individuals
A successful PhD - some hints

Never submit a PhD without the approval of your supervisor Never exceed the number of words specified by the University (Ideal PhD: 200 pages). Read your University regulations. The introductory and conclusions chapters are the most important- take great care to manage expectations and understand the limitations The Research Methodology chapter should be clearly written and justified: Qualitative or quantitative Single case study or multiple case studies Data collection Statistical analysis Research Process Map Research findings should be rigorous and statistically proven if possible The literature review should be comprehensive (Critique and not reporting) Proof reading is important: Minor typographical errors - Acknowledgements Clear abstract - Referencing Numbering Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
More hints the Viva

Remember that the PhD viva is a formal examination, but in most cases it is operated like a discussion Make sure that you arrange a mock viva before the real thing Read about your examiners work Be confident, not arrogant and show passion towards your research Listen to the question you have been asked Agree with the examiners if you cant support your argument -dont waffle Bring a list of corrections to the viva Mark up your copy of the thesis in order to find your way easily during the viva Dont read the PhD the night before the viva, try to relax Typical questions:
Tell me about the story of your PhD, what is your main contribution? Why did you choose the topic or this research method? Give me the names of two experts in this area (well known researchers) How did you validate your work? Would you do this research the same way again? Do you have any questions which you would have expected me to ask?
Getting published Why refereed Journals?

Not commercial: no fees Status More weight More rigour Researchers refer to RAE Academic Career Establish a name Reputation Support your PhD viva Knowledge dissemination Lead to collaboration
How to choose a Journal?

Start with a conference paper Study carefully a sample of journal papers, this will give you some insights into the expectations and standards for a paper Decide on a journal Quality: Journal ranking Speed of publication Relevance of subject Ask staff colleagues for help Visit the web and library, plenty of information Join mailing lists Ask the editor of the journal Draft an outline of your paper and discuss with supervisor Produce the first draft Pass paper to your supervisor for comments Improve paper Submit paper
Drafting your paper

Abstract: Concise, to the point, research methodology, main contribution Introduction: subject matter, introducing the paper Literature review: comprehensive, refereed papers Research methodology: very clear, rigorous Main findings: statistics, etc Testing and validation: Conclusions and further work References: Harvard, etc Follow guidelines strictly Respond to corrections (include a covering letter that identify the corrections) Never give up If rejected, improve and send it somewhere else Good Luck
Some key questions

Readability - Does it communicate the right message? Is it clear? Is there a logical progression without unnecessary duplication? Originality - Why was it written? Whats new? Credibility - Are the conclusions valid? Is the methodology robust? Can it be replicated? Is it honest dont hide any limitations of the research? Youll be found out. Applicability - How do findings apply to the world of practice? Does it pinpoint the way forward for future research? Internationality - Does it take an international, global perspective?
Dr Bingunath Ingiriges PhD Experience

A PhD is 80% thinking and 20% doing (May 2000)
YOU ARE SHOWING AN IMPROVEMENT FROM LAST TIME. BUT THERE IS A LOT MORE TO DO!!!!
What challenges?
being self motivated, positive attitude setting your own deadlines being ruthless with yourself continuous discussions with peers and maintain their interest in your work get the supervisor interested in your work Access to companies
Sometimes I felt .
Doing really well
I am going nowhere
and my level of interest, enthusiasm, and motivation
PhD requires a significant shift in your thinking!!!

Get the PhD thinking going!!!
Linking and Narrowing Down The funnel
Why ?
focus Why not ?
How ? What ? So What ?
Achievement of major milestones / major areas

Research Problem & research questions Research hypothesis / hypotheses Level of resolution Individual / company access to collect data Analysis Substantial completion of field research Substantial Write up
Overall Methodology
Contribution to knowledge
Overheard.
Sometimes I feel, why I started it in the first place Cant do it any more. Please give me the doctorate!!!
But, look at the bright side.
Generally speaking success rate is very high
Concluding remarks
A good problem identification underpinned by
a sound methodology will take you through Read books such as how to get a PhD, quite earlier on in your process gain insights No silver bullet but commitment and endurance Several alternative paths available
Dr Richard Haigh s PhD experience
Snow White and the Seven Ph.D. Students

At first youre Bashful and Dopey.
Two years later youre sick (Sneezy), tired (Sleepy), and irritable (Grumpy).
Finally, everyone calls you Doc, and then youre Happy.

Im going to make a real contribution to science

Motivation
Just give me the Doctorate
Why did I ever start this?

Time
Your supervisor
Your supervisor may be your best friend - your success is their success ! Unlike marriage, they expect (and want) you to leave, to see you stand on your own feet - more like children? The dream supervisor
A good knowledge of the topic in year one Interested in your subject Excellent knowledge of research methodology Provides feedback timely, fast and consistently Promotes their academic and publishing contacts Agrees to meet frequently Second supervisor offers an alternative perspective but is not fundamentally opposed to the first
Be part of a community if you can Research Workshops 17 November 2008 UTM

th
Research Ethics
Your PhD is publicly available The sensitivity of the research topic Please consult with research ethics committee
DO
Define a POA (plan of action) from day one! Find a topic that you are really interested in Work with your fellow PhD students Work closely with your supervisor to get full support Undertake a thorough and critical review of the literature Present papers at conferences and publish in high quality refereed journals so as to improve your writing skills and obtain early critical comments from external reviewers and peers Take over PhD ownership is important Try to become an expert in both, the research topic and the research methodology. it will remain with you forever, wherever you go and whatever you do in your life Write and keep on writing, it cements your thoughts Reward yourself when significant milestones are achieved Be confident (not arrogant) in yourself and you can convince the worst critique!
DO NOT
Prolong your PhD Take long breaks ( it is difficult to start again) Depend 100% on your supervisor Be forced down a specific theme / methodology route just to fit in with the supervisor's interests Think the supervisor knows everything. Have poor time management Lose focus or direction Let any third parties or your supervisor control it Plagiarise Underestimate the writing up period Ignore the importance of meeting your supervisor in the first 2 years Take criticism negatively, but as a challenge!
Provided by Irem Dikmen
For more info, please see http://scientific.thomson.com/ SCI Core list CANADIAN JOURNAL OF CIVIL ENGINEERING (impact factor = 0.177 as of 2003) Bimonthly ISSN: 0315-1468 NATL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA-N R C RESEARCH PRESS, BUILDING M 55, OTTAWA, CANADA, ON, K1A 0R6 JOURNAL OF COMPUTING IN CIVIL ENGINEERING (impact factor = 0.627 as of 2001) Quarterly ISSN: 0887-3801 ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERS, 1801 ALEXANDER BELL DR, RESTON, USA, VA, 20191-4400
SCI Expanded List AUTOMATION IN CONSTRUCTION (impact factor = 0.387 as of 2005) Bimonthly ISSN: 0926-5805 ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV, PO BOX 211, AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, 1000 AE BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT (impact factor = 0.676 as of 2005) Monthly ISSN: 0360-1323 PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD, THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD, ENGLAND, OX5 1GB BUILDING RESEARCH AND INFORMATION (impact factor = 0.293 as of 2003) Bimonthly ISSN: 0961-3218 TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, 4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON, ENGLAND, OXON, OX14 4RN COMPUTER-AIDED CIVIL AND INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING (impact factor = 0.768 as of 2003) Bimonthly ISSN: 1093-9687 BLACKWELL PUBLISHING, 9600 GARSINGTON RD, OXFORD, ENGLAND, OXON, OX4 2DQ JOURNAL OF CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT-ASCE (impact factor = 0.254 as of 2001) Bimonthly ISSN: 0733-9364 ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERS, 1801 ALEXANDER BELL DR, RESTON, USA, VA, 20191-4400 JOURNAL OF PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTED FACILITIES (impact factor = ?) Quarterly ISSN: 0887-3828 ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERS, 1801 ALEXANDER BELL DR, RESTON, USA, VA, 20191-4400 JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT IN ENGINEERING (impact factor = 0.144 as of 2001) Quarterly ISSN: 0742-597X ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERS, 1801 ALEXANDER BELL DR, RESTON, USA, VA, 20191-4400
Thank you for listening

Q/A Presentation will be made available if needed (e-mail g.aouad@salford.ac.uk) Good luck with your PhDs Always remember that a PhD is an opportunity for you to be trained as a researcher Always remember, that you are not alone, thousands of PhDs are in the same position
Raw data
28 respondents Proper Content Analysis is needed Use findings as a guide and not as a bible Every PhD is different
Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1. work on areas that you are not very interested. 2. Drag the PhD for too long. 3. let research project control your PhD direction
Don't keep yourself loose on your PhD and dont engage your mind with issues other than PhD during the PhD study in particular in the early years of PhD. For example, if a student dont give effort sufficiently with full concentration on the PhD in the early years, it is very likely that the PhD will require extension to complete. As a result, student may face to finish it in 4,5 or 6 years time, which could be demoralising for the student. Don't do PhD on a subject you are not sure and you don't like. Some may want to do PhD in order just to have a PhD degree just like degree students most of whom are actually aiming at having a degree for securing their life. therefore they should bear or cope with some subjects although they are not interested in. as a result, they just put afford to pass the modules and that is it. However, PhD is much more delicate and fragile study. it is like a sensitive girl who needs continuous care and attention and delicacy and love and enthusiasm. while doing PhD, the student should live with this girl (PhD) at least 3 years. if you don't like this girl, it could be a nightmare and potentially break-up with her (PhD) and giving up completing the PhD study. As a result, don't do PhD study on a subject you are not interested in. Although PhD study includes individually independent learning and you are on your own most of the time apart from the support and communication with your supervisor, Do not isolate yourself from your subject related community don't sacrifice your social life completely. Your supervisor can be the gateway to reach other academic and researchers in your subject area and don't hesitate to talk to your supervisor on anything relevant to your PhD subject. Don't lose your regular and continuous contact with your supervisor because it is likely that your supervisor could be the person you meet most often unless you are married. If you are married, your supervisor is the second person you see after your wife. Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process

1. Find a topic that you are really interested 2. Work with your fellow PhD students 3. Work closely with your supervisor
Please select a subject you are really interested in and you have passion on the subject to learn as a result while progressing on your PhD, it will also satisfy you personally and makes you happy and more interested in
Clearly identify the challenge you want to tackle in your PhD (your research question), identify your research methodology and make sure to justify why your methodology is the best approach to tackle the challenge. To my mind, this is the most important gain of a PhD study. this is because a PhD student is gaining a critical skill which is independent learning. this will also help gaining self confidence and reflect this skill on other challenges and problems in life. Be demanding and open to your supervisor for knowledge and facilities and don't hesitate to discuss your thoughts with your supervisor. Try to establish a network of people in your subject area with your supervisor support through attending workshops, publishing in conferences and journal magazines. Behave always constructive and collaborative manner. Be always focus on your subject. There might be ups and downs during the study so make sure to be consistent and give your study priority because it is very delicate. Once you lose your concentration, it may be difficult to gain the same focus and it cause losing time.
Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process

1. You should not look for job before finishing your PhD. It is definitely not good for your PhD, but maybe good for your finance and family; 2. You should never send out anything you write, before you review it at least once; This is especially for foreign students. 3 . You should not lose your confidence about yourself, no matter what difficulty is on the way of your pursuing your PhD.

1 Writing more papers. It has better to write one / two papers during your PhD. This really helps your PhD writing up. 2 Doing your best to finish your PhD on time; 3 Getting well along with his supervisor, make sure that you get fully support from your support;
PhD candidates should: know that the right information will never come to them unless they go and search for it. know that nobody will come for help unless they ask for it find and create time for social activities and networking which will (in)directly contribute to their success
PhD candidates should NOT: - think that their PhD will make this world a better place. Just focus on one subject. There are more subjects surrounding the issue and they need to find those who are working on those other issues with whom they can collaborate; - think that finishing the PhD is the end of it. It is just a start!
To be continued
Do: -acquire a solid and in-depth historical understanding of the evolution of your subject area - remember that methodology is not a toolbox but requires creative development efforts similarly to other aspects of research - take a critical attitude to established wisdom. Do not: - try to initiate a paradigm shift in your thesis - it is just an entry ticket to your scientific career - take a break from your PhD studies - it is difficult to start again - stop your studies if you feel that your supervisor is an idiot, despot, etc. - many, if not most PhD students have such feelings at least occasionally but successfully graduate and then stay friendly with the supervisor Three things that a PhD student should do: 1. Undertake a thorough and critical review of the literature on the state-of-the-art in your chosen problem area, develop a strong case for the research, and a robust research proposal within the first six months of starting your PhD 2. Read widely and outside your subject area for inspiration 3. You should aim to present papers at conferences and publish in high quality refereed journals so as to improve your writing skills and obtain early critical comments from external reviewers and peers. Three things that a PhD student shouldn't do: 1. Should not select a topic that they do not enjoy. 2. Appear blank at supervisory meetings and expect their supervisor to provide all the answers or do their PhD. for them. 3. Should not fall out with their supervisor but should seek to maintain a good working relationship throughout.
Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process: 1 2 3 Give the impression that supervision is a chore that staff have to do as part of their job; Fail to respond quickly to students queries; Take on too many candidates at the same time.
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Become a critical friend and colleague rather than supervisor 2 Set aside plenty of time for 'general' discussions not just PhD specific 3 Be prepared to innovate within the PhD process - get the student involved in wider studies and other publications. Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 2 3 Take over (drive it ourselves) student ownership is important Leave things to chance (always project manage events to alleviate risk) Engage nepotism [you may want to leave this one out]
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 2 3 Be supportive, and empathise with the student throughout (share experiences good/bad) Constantly reflect Encourage peer review (conferences, colleagues, journals, seminars etc)
Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1. Delay our response, and give them a shallow feedback, or none respond at all. 2. Block their ideas, by dictating to them what they should be doing. 3. Pretend that we know all the answers. Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1. Understand their culture and background. Not all educational cultures differentiate between aims, objectives and methodology. These are vital to give them a head start. 2. Mentor them to develop a writing style, by encouraging them to publish, this helps them shape their writing style. 3. Allow them to make mistakes, if they insist that this is the right approach, then challenge them to prompt them in the right directions. Any other hints are welcome
- Must not compare them with their peers, but create a positive sense of competition. - Get them to present in front of others, encourage them to attend seminars and build their confidence. - Don't meet them casually between meetings (unless there is a burning issue). Allocate a special time for research and researchers. Students are sensitive to supervisor's attitude, and they can take it personally
Two things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process

1 don't take on too much part-time non-related work 2 don't choose a topic for any other reason except that you are interested in it Two things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 read widely and deeply - you will be under pressure not to - no matter what your future job 2 understand/develop the theory/theories of your subject area...- it is at the theory/concept level that your work will be most transferable Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1. Do not think that 3-year time period is a long period; it will pass very quickly. 2. Do not think, getting PhD is a difficult process but at the same time work hard to get it out of your way as soon as you can, sooner the better! 3. you should not become dependent on your supervisors; the aim of any studies should be to make yourself independent researcher. supervisors are there to guide you not to dictate you.
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1. Try to publish, start from conference papers but make journal papers your target. imagine the impression you will create in the minds of your external examiners if you have referred to your own journal papers in your PhD thesis! 2. Share your knowledge with other students in the similar research area and try to know what they are doing. Specially find out what your supervisors' activities are in that area i.e. teaching, research and enterprise. 3. Try to become an expert in both, the research topic and the research methodology. it will remain with you forever, wherever you go and whatever you do in your life. Three Things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 Focus students thinking on the research area 100% to give the ability to think out of the box 2 Provide them with a direct solution to a problem without giving the opportunity to investigate the problem 3 Meeting them on a weekly basis! Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Provide continuous guidance and support 2 Train students to be independent 3 Help them to be thinkers
Two things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 Never give up! 2 Close your mind! You may not be right and/ or there are other ways!

1 Talk about your research with your supervisor, fellow researchers, peers etc you never know they maybe able to help! 2 Read/ attend as many related material/ meetings as you can you never know what you may learn! Focusing too deeply restricts your learning/ thinking. 3 Write and keep on writing, it cements your thoughts. Any other hints are welcome Ensure that you have the best supervisory team in the world! Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process
1 'Force' the student down a specific theme / methodology route just to fit in with the supervisor's interests. 2 Lose contact with the student for any prolonged period and make the student feel neglected. 3 Omit to give appropriate feedback.
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Allow the student to believe that the supervisor knows everything (To give the student confidence in the supervisor). 2 Allow the student to believe that the supervisor doesn't know everything (To allow the student to develop their own expertise in their subject). 3 Encourage. Encourage. Encourage. Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 The light at the tunnel is very far (3-4 years). Do not allow this to the influence your determination. 2 not to confuse Methods with Methodology 3 not to leave the organisation of referencing to the end. Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Pay as much attention to refining the Aim as necessary and not to confuse it with objectives. 2 Produce documented abstracts of literature review by focusing on the abstract and conclusion only. 3 Provide a system for documentation at early stages so everything could be placed in its right place
1 narrow down the focus of the work too soon 2 demoralise the student 3 be too instructive when tempted to provide answers
1 Incentivise the student and realise their full potential 2 be available (open door policy) and provide timely feedback on drafts and queries 3 encourage the consideration of various perspectives
1 Be overly critical in the early stages of a PhD students journey students undertake a steep and tough learning curve as they get to grips with the literature and the general academic culture. Supervisors need to be supervisors, mentors and counsellors all at once! 2 Expect all PhD students to be the same! Every PhD student has different expectations, different learning styles, different norms and values we, as supervisors, need to recognise this, and to work closely with students through open dialogue to manage mutual expectations. Too often, I have seen misunderstandings on both sides result in entrenched positions to the detriment of both! Relationships need constant and explicit maintenance!
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 PhD focus unless part of a funded research project, etc. the student should be given the room to develop his or her own research question. A core part of the PhD experience and outcome is self-directed researchers. In my experience, supervisors who dictate too much the research topic area stifle students curiosity about the world, and their motivation and creativity in its exploration and understanding. 2 PhD methodology PhD students must firmly ground his or her work in an ontological and epistemology context. Too often supervisors and students forget that the PhD award is a Doctor of Philosophy not an award in innovation management or process management, etc. This philosophical dimension is tough work but is absolutely essential to developing rounded, critical thinkers and practitioners. 3 PhD outcomes PhD students should be encouraged to expose their work as soon as possible to (and on an ongoing basis) to their national and international peers to locate and calibrate their work with others, to build their confidence in their work and in themselves, and to develop networks of contacts. 1: be dogmatic 2: be used as proof readers to overcome lazy work by students 3: allow students to drift around with ill defined aims and objectives Three things supervisors should do as part of the PhD process 1 support students and encourage them like a good sports coach 2 be available at times of crisis 3 provide effective leadership in the subject area OR if this is not possible arrange for an advisor who can give such leadership Any other hints are welcome A good methodology is the almost certain route to heaven. Alla be praised!!!
Four things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1. Poor time management 2. No focus or direction 3. Fear of failure / taking risks 4. Laziness / lack of motivation Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1. Diligent 2. Hard working 3. Motivated 4. Competent Three things you should do (not in the order of importance): 1. Demonstrating that it is your PhD and you are always in control of it. Dont let any third parties or your supervisor to control it. 2. Manage information from inception to completion of your PhD so that you can capture any significant departures from your original position at any time. 3. Getting into a mindset that doing a PhD is significantly different to getting through a taught programme and that you need very long endurance and self-sustenance. Therefore the importance of rewarding yourself when significant milestones are achieved and understanding that you need to sustain your spirit while sustaining the enthusiasm of your supervisor to meet the challenges. Three things you should not do (not in the order of importance) 1. Depending 100% on the supervisor not demonstrating your personal commitment 2. Meetings with supervisor: Either show up late to meetings, frequent cancellations of meetings or not turning up to meetings at all and then forgetting that you were supposed to meet the supervisor on a certain day / time frequent occurrences of this nature will easily switch off the connection between you and your supervisor. 3. Getting easily demoralised when you are told by your supervisor that you have a long way to go.
Two things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 Do not cancel or otherwise avoid attending previously agreed meetings with our PhD students (unless we give timely notification and rearrange the meeting) 2 Do not try to be overly forceful in imposing our own demands on the student it is after all their theses - warts and all. If a thesis significantly changes direction as a result of the supervisors own interests then the student may well lose some of the passion that drives them to succeed. Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Meet with the student on a regular basis. Clearly, this depends on circumstances but face to face meetings are so much more personal and supportive than an over reliance on email discussions. 2 Encourage students to be creative and to think outside the box this may well require them to attend workshops and seminars but will be well worth it 3 Encourage students to not be afraid to question what they see, hear and read subject experts are not always right! Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 Rush and think too much about publications / the thesis before you have done any research! 2 Aim for perfection 3 Try to deal with problems alone / panic Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Have a plan and keep moving steadily but cumulatively 2 Use the contacts expertise around you 3 Keep a sense of the whole (in terms of content but also methodology)
As a PhD student, you should: - know when to stop (reading, researching and writing) - start writing on day 1, whether its a section from a literature review chapter or a conference or journal paper - take any opportunities to present either your work or your conference papers. It is scary at first, but everyone has to do it and the confidence you develop makes the viva a whole lot easier. As a PhD student you should not: - ever think that your thesis will be perfect; this holy grail does not exist! - feel guilty about your failure to spend every spare minute in every 24 hour period working on your PhD -underestimate how long university procedures take especially if you have your heart set on graduating in a given year. Three things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process From a students perspective: 1. do not take much longer than 3 years to complete its too big a time investment 2. do not think you are alone and do not think you are the most miserable person in the world, YOU ARE NOT! 3. avoid plagiarism
Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1. Plan realistically think of what you can do as well as what you would like to do 2. Focus, Focus, Focus 3. ALWAYS ask why and think about the readers perspective while writing 4. whenever possible, discuss your research topic with other students, with researchers, academics, etc I did a presentation on this many moons ago. One of the things I raised was do you want to get an easy PhD then go for the conventional methodologies and a narrow focus OR do you want to make an impact if so try and rethink the domain and paint a broad picture of what needs to be done and explore the methodologies to do it. My experience suggests that the latter is much more interesting but it is more difficult. Where does wisdom lie? I am not sure! I think it depends on the ability of the student and supervisor.
Things to do (student perspective)? 1. Maintain regular contact with supervisor (especially in the early stages). 2. Careful planning with identifiable milestones against which to measure progress. 3. Ensure the area of research is of real 'personal' interest.
Things not to do (student perspective)? 1. Underestimate the writing up period. 2. Become or feel isolated - maintain contact with other Ph.D. students, those with a similar research interest, etc. 3. Become too demoralised/frustrated at inevitable low/slow periods - discuss concerns with supervisor, others, etc.
Things to do (supervisor perspective)? 1. Allocate quality time for regular productive meetings (especially in the early stages). 2. Motivate/reassure especially during periods of uncertainty. 3. Ensure feedback on work in a realistic and agreed period. Things not to do (supervisor perspective)? 1. Make assumptions in terms of students' abilities, understanding, etc. 2. Allow students to become too reliant. 3. Allow students to leave meetings without being sure they are completely happy with moving forward and any concerns have been addressed
Two things we shouldn't do as part of the PhD process 1 Do the PhD for the student strong steers on PhD approaches can led to a confused approach that is half supervisor and half student. 2 Ignore the student for the first 2 years the supervisor should be a sounding board for ideas and point out potential pitfalls in proposed approaches Three things we should do as part of the PhD process 1 Provide encouragement especially in the writing up period - also to recognise the pressure the student is under. 2 Support our excellent programme of workshops for PhDs 3 Explain the cultural differences between western research and other research see below These cultural differences may not be obvious at first but are often deep seated. For instance the Chinese approach to research is to do something innovative and then to state what was done. Reflection and explanation of process (methodology) do not come naturally to many highly intelligent PhD students from overseas. Also in some cultures humility is a virtue and thus it is difficult for the student to claim innovation in their work. However, when I pointed this out to a student she then rewrote a chapter of her PhD is such a way that it was more like an advertisement for her work than coolly objective research she had taken in western culture as she perceived it through the prevailing media! It made me realise that this is an area that supervisors need to consider carefully
Things to do (student perspective)? 1. Maintain regular contact with supervisor (especially in the early stages). 2. Careful planning with identifiable milestones against which to measure progress. 3. Ensure the area of research is of real 'personal' interest. Things not to do (student perspective)? 1. Underestimate the writing up period. 2. Become or feel isolated - maintain contact with other Ph.D. students, those with a similar research interest, etc. 3. Become too demoralised/frustrated at inevitable low/slow periods - discuss concerns with supervisor, others, etc.
Things to do (supervisor perspective)? 1. Allocate quality time for regular productive meetings (especially in the early stages). 2. Motivate/reassure especially during periods of uncertainty. 3. Ensure feedback on work in a realistic and agreed period. Things not to do (supervisor perspective)? 1. Make assumptions in terms of students' abilities, understanding, etc. 2. Allow students to become too reliant. 3. Allow students to leave meetings without being sure they are completely happy with moving forward and any concerns have been addressed
THANK YOU

PHD Workshop Prof Ghassan

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RESEARCH WORKSHOPS

Tips and tricks for a successful PhD

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

How to succeed in doing a PhD: personal experiences

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Why are you doing a PhD?

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Process and Milestones

Identification of the PROBLEM

Definition of the AIM Establish Objectives and Hypothesis

Quantitative qualitative Questionnaires, interviews, survey Content analyses NViVo or SPSS

Development of model/ frame work / and Evaluation

The 2nd 6 months

The first 6 months

The 2nd year

The final year

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Never give up Get published Keep Reading Focus

Relationship with supervisor

Dealing with problems Rigour

Defending Your PhD

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

A commonly experienced external reality with predetermined nature and structure

An unknowable reality perceived in different ways by individuals

Locating some common methods

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

A successful PhD - some hints

More hints the Viva

Getting published Why refereed Journals?

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

How to choose a Journal?

Drafting your paper

Some key questions

Dr Bingunath Ingiriges PhD Experience

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

and my level of interest, enthusiasm, and motivation

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

PhD requires a significant shift in your thinking!!!

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Achievement of major milestones / major areas

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

But, look at the bright side.

Generally speaking success rate is very high

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Dr Richard Haigh s PhD experience

Snow White and the Seven Ph.D. Students

Finally, everyone calls you Doc, and then youre Happy.

Im going to make a real contribution to science

Just give me the Doctorate

Why did I ever start this?

Be part of a community if you can Research Workshops 17 November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM

Provided by Irem Dikmen

Research Workshops 17th November 2008 UTM