Workshop Slides on Research Proposal and Procedure 180415

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Research Proposal and Procedure:

A Guide to Postgraduate Studies (I)

Kuching Park Hotel, Kuching, Sarawak

April 18-19, 2015

Organized by Sarawak Research Society (SRS)

Ernest Cyril de Run

Hiram Ting

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Initial RemarksThese workshop slides are prepared and designed specifically for

the postgraduate candidates in the present workshop. Hence, some

of the points are developed based on experience, not textbook-like

materials, and must be understood with the right context.

Hiram Ting

AcknowledgementGratitude to Prof Thurasamy Ramayah and Prof Ernest Cyril de Run

for providing useful information during the preparation of the

workshop slides.

Research Proposal and Procedure: A Guide to Postgraduate StudiesKuching, 18-19 April, 2015

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What this workshop upholds…

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What this workshop upholds…

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What you should be doing…

Invest time to prepare

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What you should be doing…

Embrace challenges, live worthily

Workshop OutlineDay One

• Why Do Research

• Introduction to Research Proposal

• Overview of Research Proposal

• Concept, Context & Content

• Selecting Topic(s)

• Research Problem & Objective

• Identifying Research Gap

• Theoretical & Conceptual

Framework

• Literature Review*

• Research Design/Methodology*

• Significance of Study

• References and Time Frame

• Sources of Information

• Common Mistakes

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Day Two

• Literature Review

• What and How Many

• How to Review

• How to Synthesize

• Research Methodology

• Research Paradigm & Design

• Population & Sample

• Instrument Design

• Data Collection and Analysis

• Taxonomy

• How to Start Writing

• How to Present & Defend

• Handling Challenges & Roadblocks

• Post-Research Proposal

• Hands-on Exercise

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Why Do Research?

… I went to a counseling session ... After first session, the counselor

left me with a question about my priority, family or study. So, I …

answered her that both have equal priority. … For second session,

she left me with another question, what motivates me to do my PhD.

Now, after thinking for a long time, I'm not so sure what motivates me

to do PhD. I just go with the flow. I want to be a lecturer. I am under

fellowship program. When I told her that it is compulsory for me, she

said that it is not a valid reason. She knows that I love teaching and

studying but they can be done in various ways. Why PhD??? I am

stuck now. Why PhD??? Can you share with me what motivates you

to do PhD???

By a PhD candidate in Malaysia

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Why Do Research?

CONTINUED

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Why Do Research?CONTINUED

The myths of doing a PhD…

It is gonna be tough…

The journey is lonely…

Struggle between priorities…

Supervisors know everything…

Reviewers/examiners are there to make you suffer…

Lost of momentum in the second semester/year…

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Why Do Research?CONTINUED

The myths of doing a PhD…

How to get things done quicker…

Keep attending workshops, seminars to ―learn‖ etc…

Be a lecturer, easier to give lecture…

Have better chance to work, get promoted…

Earn more money and recognition…

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Why Do Research?CONTINUED

Some of the reasons why we do postgraduate studies:

Not sure what to do/Can‘t seem to get anything right.

Follow what our friends and colleagues are doing.

Encouraged or told by parents, peers or anyone of importance.

Want to prove to yourself and/or others that you can do it.

‗Interested‘ in teaching, admire the perceived flexibility and security.

Believe that future life would be better with more education.

To get promotion, increment of salary and/or better recognition.

Encouraged by supervisors due to available projects, topics and funds.

Cherish study life, feel good about going-back-to-school and study.

Desire to learn more, irrespective of age and status.

Find strong interest in working in academia.

Interested in and committed to doing research.

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Introduction to Research Proposal

A research proposal is a formal and initial effort to carry out research,

usually written, stating the problem that will be tackled and the plan to

solve the problem.

It presents the problem that is being researched and why it is important

(in relation to its objective, significance and contribution).

It brings in discussions of research efforts of others who have done

similar research on similar issue.

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Introduction to Research ProposalCONTINUED

It proposes procedures that are required to collect data, solve the

problem, and thus fulfil research objectives.

It acts as a control mechanism for the duration of the research.

It forces an estimation of time and budget.

It is a concise write-up to indicate the candidate‘s interest in undertaking

the proposed research and demonstrate their capability in carrying it out.

It is a prerequisite to registration and often a gauge to ensure candidates

are ready to proceed with their research.

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Introduction to Research ProposalCONTINUED

Even prior to preparing research proposal, one must have some ideas

about management/research problems and questions.

Research process problems to avoid includes ill-defined management

problem, unresearchable questions, and politically-motivated research.

Research process problems to think twice includes research areas which

your supervisors are not familiar with, background and topics that you

are not interested in and/or can hardly find online.

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Introduction to Research ProposalCONTINUED

What do you think of the followings?

1. Investigating Intention of Tourists to visit Cultural Sites.

2. Determining Factors Affecting Business Performance using Facebook.

3. Developing A Political-Switching Model in Malaysia.

4. Exploring Lifestyle Change of the Minorities: A Case of Orang Asli.

5. Internal Marketing: How Managers Practise Marketing.

6. What about yours?

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Common Comments by Examiners/Reviewers

Research gap is not clearly identified; research problem is not spelt out

with reference to literature.

Objectives and significance of research are not up the required level.

Subject of research is not of current interest.

Void or lack of underlying theories.

Void or lack of theoretical/conceptual contribution.

Literature not current, exhaustive and coherent.

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Common Comments by Examiners/ReviewersCONTINUED

Inclusion and exclusion of certain variables are not addressed.

Research design is not clearly outlined and explained.

Problems with measurement and testability of hypotheses.

Issues with population, sampling, unit and choice of analysis.

Writing style and the use of language.

Feasibility of research based on time and budget.

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Common Challenges Faced by Candidates

Choosing the right topic.

Identifying and determining research problem.

Knowing what is the background study.

Finding the gaps in literature.

Knowing how to tackle ―so what?‖, ―what is so great about it?‖.

Knowing how to prepare a proposal and the flow.

Knowing why and what theory(ies).

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Common Challenges Faced by CandidatesCONTINUED

Knowing research methodology.

Determining the right instrument.

Different opinions between supervisors and among colleagues.

Issues with ―keep reading‖; how much and where to stop.

Issues with writing, including starting to write.

Issues with presenting and defending research proposal.

Dealing with panelists and examiners.

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Interest & Background?

Advice & Suggestion?

Talk to potential

supervisor?

PlanningHave a Bird-eye’s View

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PlanningSit Down and Think!

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Components of Research Proposal

Introduction

Research Problem/Problem Statement

Rationale/Purpose of the Study

Review of the Literature

Proposed Research Framework

Research Questions/Proposed Hypotheses

Proposed Methods and Procedures

Limitations and Delimitations

Significance of the Study

References

Gantt Chart

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Components of Research Proposal

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Source:

http://sydney.edu.au/busin

ess/__data/assets/pdf_file/

0014/90410/Research_pro

posal.pdf

Components of Research Proposal

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Source:

http://sydney.edu.au/busin

ess/__data/assets/pdf_file/

0014/90410/Research_pro

posal.pdf

Components of Research ProposalCONTINUED

Sample of Research Proposal

https://www.bcps.org/offices/lis/resear

chcourse/develop_writing.html

http://www.education.uwa.edu.au/stud

ents/research/sample-proposals

Research Proposal Samples provided

in pendrive.

Take note that different universities,

disciplines and faculties may require

different proposal format and content.

Hence, it is important to talk to your

potential/proposed supervisor, check

proposal guidelines, and refer to your

seniors‘ works.

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Concept, Context & Content

A concept is a generalized idea about a class of objects, attributes,

occurrences, or processes that has been given a name. Examples in

social sciences: knowledge sharing, purchase decision, beliefs about

product, and entrepreneurial intention.

A context is any environmental factors that may influence the research

process and/or the instructional outcomes under study including

background, geographic location, the physical environment, time of day,

social factors, and demographic factors. It is the ―area‖ of interaction.

A content is a subject-specific information through which concept is

understood. It refers to particular issue so as to articulate the nature of

the content involved.

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Concept, Context & ContentCONTINUED

CONCEPT

Knowledge Sharing Behavior

Attitudinal Beliefs

Motivation and Intention

Post-purchase Behavior

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CONTEXT

Universities

in Malaysia

Social Campaign in Sarawak

Join Cultural Event/Activity

Consume Traditional Food

CONTENT

Among Full-time Academic staffs

Advertisement about Safety Belt

RWMF among Young Adults

Consume DayakFood by Ethnicity

Selecting Topic(s)

Topic Selection Consideration

Personal interest

Organizational support

Ethical issues

Relevance of the study

Contribution to the field

Time constraints

Breath and scope

Economic factors

Sources of topic selection (with reference to concept, context and

content) includes journals, books, and dissertations in your field,

conferences, workshops, presentations, recommendations about future

research, courses, workplace, potential supervisor, expert consultations

and online library services

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Selecting Topic(s)

CONTINUED

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Research Problem

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Research ProblemCONTINUED

Problem can be defined as ―any situation where there is a gap

between the real situation and the ideal situation‖.

This is an area of conflict, concern, or controversy (a gap between what

is wanted and what is observed). Most relevant references that support

the claim need to be included.

Problem statement can be described as follows:

An existing problem where the managers want to find a solution.

Situation where it is not a problem currently but the managers feel it

can be improved.

Fields where conceptual clarity or broadening/deepening is needed

for better development of theory or explanation of the phenomenon.

It is critically important to differentiate problem from symptom.

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Research ProblemCONTINUED

―The problem statement describes the context for the study and it also

identifies the general analysis approach‖ (Wiersma, 1995, p. 404).

―A problem might be defined as the issue that exists in the literature,

theory, or practice that leads to a need for the study‖ (Creswell, 1994, p.

50).

It is important in a proposal that the problem stands out—that the reader

can easily recognize it. Sometimes, obscure and poorly formulated

problems are masked in an extended discussion. In such cases,

reviewers and/or committee members will have difficulty recognizing

the problem.

Understanding the nature of problem is of utmost importance as it will

affect planning and decision on research design.

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Identifying Research Gap

If you are working on original research, you will want to identify a need

for your research somewhere close to the beginning of your paper. This is

best done by surveying the current research and then identifying a gap

that you are going to fill.

Explain what has been done and what is lacking or needs to be done. This

then creates an opportunity for you to make a contribution to the research

in the area.

How to find the gap or whether it is the gap seems to be the most

essential question nowadays…

1. Critical literature review is required.

2. Read limitations and future studies in recent theses and journal articles.

3. Using techniques and tools may be useful but it does not help at all if

you don‘t read and keep reading.

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Identifying Research GapCONTINUED

Examples:

Research Gap identified: A study of the changes over the last decade.

There have been a number of valuable studies of self-employment

using cross-section data (Rees and Shah, 1986; Blanchflower and

Oswald, 1993; Taylor, 1996), all of which present evidence on a number

of employment and personal characteristics on the sector. However,

none of these studies provides a picture of the changes over the last

decade or forecasts the trends in self-employment as the recession of

1990 took hold.

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Identifying Research GapCONTINUED

Research Gap identified: A research-based model for the evaluation of

self-access language learning centres.

In education in general, evaluation has played a vital role for more than

one hundred years (Madaus et al, 1983). In English Language Teaching

also, evaluation has been a major concern for over twenty years

(Strevens, 1976; Stern, 1983; Lynch, 1996). In contrast, it is only

recently (Star, 1994; Gardner & Miller, 1999) that attention has been

paid to the evaluation of learning outcomes in self-access centers.

However, if we are to argue that such centers provide an effective and

efficient alternative to other existing modes of language learning, it

remains a matter of serious concern that there is no research-based

model designed for their evaluation.

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Identifying Research GapCONTINUED

What do you think of the above?

Talk about what you have read with your supervisor. This is a good way

of testing out your views, and getting feedback about your analysis and

the relevance of what you have been reading. Be to defend your views -

this is good practice before having a defense or viva.

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Research Objective

Research objective explains the purpose of research.

It is developed based on research problem so as to make sure whether it

is achievable, and hence, address the problem.

Usually research objectives are listed from general to the specific ones.

The objectives should be expressed in such a way that the reader can

determine whether the objectives have been achieved or not.

Consistency must be verified by evaluating whether each objective is

discussed in research design, data analysis and the discussion of

findings.

Examples: To investigate…

To develop a model…

To explore…

To determine relationships…

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Research ObjectiveCONTINUED

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Research ObjectiveCONTINUED

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The three categories of research

questions can be viewed as collective

and intertwined with types of research

studies:

1. Descriptive questions aimed at

describing a specific phenomenon.

2. Relational questions examine

relationships between two or more

variables.

3. Causal questions are concerned with

relationships among variables and

possible directions or causes of the

relationships.

Research ObjectiveCONTINUED

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A problem statement is a clear and

concise description of the issues the

researcher(s) needs to address.

A research question is a statement

that identifies the phenomenon to be

studied.

It must clearly define the domain, the

variables, and their relationship.

A hypotheses is a specific statement of

prediction or educational guess

described in terms what a researcher

expects will happen in a study.

Problems, objectives, questions and

hypotheses must be mutual reflecting.

Hypothesis Testing

Proposed hypotheses may/may not be required in research proposal.

The researcher may choose to use either one-tailed or two-tailed tests,

depending on his prior knowledge (based on literature) of the direction

of the test (Cohen and Holliday, 1984).

Hypothesis is developed based on literature and the purpose of study.

Proposition is usually formulated for qualitative study.

Null hypothesis is not required in most cases.

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Hypothesis TestingCONTINUED

Example:

H1 – System quality has a positive relationship with satisfaction.

H2 – Satisfaction has positive effect on intention.

When formulating hypothesis, do consider:

1. Objectives of the study, e.g. model testing or scale development

2. Paradigm and approach, e.g. quantitative or qualitative study

3. Direction of the relationship, e.g. positive, negative or non-directional

4. Types of test, e.g. test of association and test of difference

5. Model complexity and number of hypotheses (principle of parsimony)

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Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

Theory

Theories are constructed in order to explain, predict and master

phenomena (e.g. relationships, events, or the behavior).

A theory makes generalizations about observations and consists of an

interrelated, coherent set of ideas and models.

The theoretical framework of the study is a structure that can hold or

support a theory of a research work. It presents the theory which

explains why the problem under study exists.

Thus, the theoretical framework is but a theory that serves as a basis forconducting research.

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

Theory

Examples of theories

List of Theories: http://www.utwente.nl/cw/theorieenoverzicht/Alphabetic%20list%20of%20theories/

Management Theories:http://www.valuebasedmanagement.net/

Marketing Theories:http://www.learnmarketing.net/theory.htm

Psychology Theories:http://psychology.about.com/od/psychology101/u/psychology-theories.htm

Sociology Theories:http://sociology.about.com/od/Sociology101/tp/Major-Sociological-Frameworks.htm

Grounded Theory: http://www.qualres.org/HomeComm-3821.html

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

Elaboration Likelihood Model Origin

Petty and Cacioppo (1979)

Core Assumption

The ELM is based on the idea that

attitudes are important because

attitudes guide decisions and other

behaviors. While attitudes can result

from a number of things, persuasion is

a primary source.

Preferred Method

Experiment, questionnaire

Reference

Cacioppo, J.T. & Petty, R.E. (1979).

Effects of message repetition and

position on cognitive response, recall

and persuasion. Journal of Personality

and Social Psychology, 27, 97-109

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

Concept

After formulating the theoretical framework, the researcher has to

develop the conceptual framework of the study.

A concept is an image or symbolic representation of an abstract idea.

Chinn and Kramer (1999) define a concept as a ―complex mental

formulation of experience‖.

While the theoretical framework is the theory on which the study is

based, the conceptual framework is the operationalization of the theory.

A conceptual framework is the researcher‘s own position on the

problem and gives direction to the study.

It may be an adaptation of a model used in a previous study, with

modifications to suit the inquiry.

Aside from showing the direction of the study, through the conceptual

framework, the researcher can be able to show the relationships of thedifferent constructs that he wants to investigate.

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

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Theoretical and Conceptual FrameworkCONTINUED

A list of established criteria for ‗good‘ conceptual framework:

1. Selectivity: there should be a clear and logical justification why a conceptual model

includes certain elements and excludes others (Whetten, 1989).

2. Parsimonious use of variables: as few variables as possible should be used,

restricting the model to the ‗vital few‘ (Pfeffer, 1982; Whetten, 1989).

3. Specificity: a framework should be precise and clear, with clear boundaries as to

what it covers, and what it does not cover (Pfeffer, 1982).

4. Comprehensiveness: considering the intention of the framework, all elements should

be taken into account that are needed to support any claims made (Whetten 1989).

5. Novelty: it is not sufficient just to repeat what others have done – a framework

should have its own conjecture and be surprising in offering new insights, which

often involves negating an existing and accepted theory (Davis, 1971; Siggelkow,

2007)

6. Meaning: does the framework present us with an instrument that helps understand an

existing, real-life managerial problem? The relevance to a practical problem seems to

be the point of greatest agreement in the literature (Schmenner, 2009)

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Literature Review

Literature reviews must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the

literature that pertains to your thesis topic.

To synthesise (similar findings, themes, approaches?) and criticise

(differences & disagreements re findings, interpretation of relationships

and other results, historical changes, contexts, perspectives?).

To show and explain the roots of the theories, concepts or research

approaches which underlie your subject area.

To be further discussed in the next session.

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Literature ReviewCONTINUED

There are various ways to review literature effectively.

Summary table and mapping are two useful techniques that help you

to visualise connections and relative relationships between things.

These associations are between literatures, and can help to identify

issues such as proximity and connections in terms of ideas and findings,

broadly identifying the key concepts across the literature and how each

paper or piece of material fits into this overall summary table or

conceptual map

Every time you read a new piece of literature for your literature review,

make any necessary additions to your summary table or changes to your

map.

How you visualise and design your table or map is entirely personal.

However, literature reviewing is a dynamic and cumulative exercise and

there are always new sources and new angles to consider.

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Literature ReviewCONTINUED

You should start by answering these questions in relation to your

reading:

1. Write down the major themes from the literature which have

relevance for your piece of research.

2. Write down any areas of consensus between different authors.

3. Write down any areas of dispute or disagreement between particular

authors.

4. State if there are any special reasons which might account for the

different views held by different authors. For example, have they

conducted their research at different times or using different

techniques?

5. Note the implications which both the cases of consensus and the

disagreements have for your own research if applicable.

6. Every time you read new literature ask yourself: where does this

paper fit in and does it alter any of my answers to the previous 5

questions?

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Methodology

Paradigm: ―the set of common beliefs and agreements shared between

scientists about how problems should be understood and addressed‖

(Kuhn, 1962).

Ontology: ways of constructing reality, ―how things really are‖ and

―how things really work‖.

Epistemology: different forms of knowledge of that reality, what nature

of relationship exists between the inquirer and the inquired? How do we

know?

Methodology: What tools do we use to know that reality?

To be further discussed in the next session.

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Ontology

EpistemologyMethodology

MethodologyCONTINUED

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Paradigm Ontology Epistemology Question Method

Positivism Hidden rules govern teaching and learning process

Focus on reliable and valid tools to undercover rules

What works? Quantitative

Interpretive/constructivist

Reality is created by individuals in groups

Discover the underlying meaning of events and activities

Why do you act this way?

Qualitative

Critical Society is rife with inequalities and injustice

Helping uncover injustice and empowering citizens

How can I change this situation?

Ideological review,Civil actions

Pragmatic Truth is what is useful

The best method is one that solves problems

Will this intervention improve learning?

Mixed Methods,Design-Based

MethodologyCONTINUED

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MethodologyCONTINUED

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https://onion.derby.ac.uk/

http://www.ukessays.com/essays/psychology/explanation-of-the-

concept-of-research-onion-psychology-essay.php

MethodologyCONTINUED

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Take note that it is a proposed methodology.

Primary components

Research paradigm and design

Population and Sample

Incl. research site, sampling strategy, sample size

Instrument Design

Data Collection

Data Analysis

Other Considerations

Conceptual Framework

Propositions/Hypotheses

Preliminary Study

Ethic Issues

Significance of Study

It is basically about expected results and contribution.

Expected results are written based on your objectives and hypotheses.

Expected contributions ought to be conceptual, empirical and/or

methodological. It can be of the followings (from 3 onwards):

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Significance of StudyCONTINUED

Example of theoretical, conceptual and empirical contribution:

The present study will extend existing knowledge about brand loyalty by

integrating the theories of …

As past studies predominantly look at leadership from the leader‘s perspective,

the addition of leadership from the follower‘s perspective will bring in

additional understanding of leadership concept and the importance of

followership…

By incorporating feminist theory (sociology) into the study (management), a

holistic model will be developed to provide greater insights into the role of

female managers not only in relation to the organizations internally, but also to

the society externally…

The inclusion of generation value as moderating variable in the model will

deepen the use of diffusion of innovations theory in developing markets by

articulating…

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Significance of StudyCONTINUED

Example of Managerial Implication:

This study will be a significant endeavor in promoting good work environment

in the workplace and motivations of its employees. This study will also be

beneficial to the students and instructors in strategic management, corporate

strategies when they employ effective learning in their classroom setting

particularly in different concepts related to the use of effective human resources

management. By understanding the needs of the students and benefits of quality

education, these instructors and students be assured of a competitive advantage.

Moreover, this research will provide recommendations on how to evaluate the

performance of a certain institution in accordance to human resources management.

Moreover, this study will be helpful to the retail industry and business

practitioners in training and informing them in the area of human resources

management, objectives, and strategies. It will also serve as a future reference for

researchers on the subject of human resources and corporate companies. And

importantly, this research will educate clients in deciding on whether an industry

e.g. business industry is really fulfilling its responsibility to the community or is just

showing off to promote its business.

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Limitation and Delimitation

The limitations and delimitations sections of your research proposal

describe situations and circumstances that may affect or restrict your

methods and analysis of research data.

Limitations are influences that the researcher cannot control. They are

the shortcomings, conditions or influences that cannot be controlled by

the researcher that place restrictions on your methodology and

conclusions. Any limitations that might influence the results should be

mentioned.

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Limitation and DelimitationCONTINUED

Delimitations are choices made by the researcher which should be

mentioned. They describe the boundaries that you have set for the

study. This is the place to explain:

1. the things that you are not doing (and why not).

2. the literature you will not review (and why not).

3. the population you are not studying (and why not).

4. the methodological procedures you will not use (and why not).

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References

Citation is important because it is the basis of academics, that is, the

pursuit of knowledge.

References acknowledge that part of your work is based on the work

and material of others.

Failure to acknowledge that some of your opinions and information

have come from others may be regarded as plagiarism.

References show your reader the range and nature of your source

materials.

It is important that any reference you give to published sources provides

sufficient detail to enable anyone to find for themselves the book or

article you are citing. An accurate and detailed description of your

source allows your reader to find and read it.

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ReferencesCONTINUED

APA or Harvard referencing lists can be easily found online via Google.

There are various software available to facilitate referencing, such as

Endnote and Mendeley. Start using it at the very beginning.

Other consideration: Learn to use features under References, Review

and Design in Word, such as Table of Content.

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Reference:

http://www.cite.auckland.ac.nz/index

.php?p=essentials

Time Frame

Research projects need to allow enough time for the research to be

conducted ethically, in other words, time is important in the following

ways:

1. allowing enough time for communicating with people who have

communication difficulties;

2. time for research teams to discuss the research;

3. time to reflect upon and learn from (for example) the pilot phase of

the research, and then time to build in improvements;

4. time not only to collect, but also to analyze the data;

5. time to report back your findings to your respondents, if appropriate;

6. time to write your reports, for those who have helped, and for the

various groups of people who may find your research useful – if

necessary in differing formats to suit a range of audiences.

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Time FrameCONTINUED

Critical Path Method

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Time FrameCONTINUED

Gantt Chart

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Time FrameCONTINUED

The proposed time frame for your research proposal should match your

own schedule and time management:

1. Knowing what the task involves

Discuss your work with your supervisor where possible

Re-read your research proposal

2. Having an awareness of what time is available

Year & weekly planners

Anticipation of other work to be undertaken

3. Having an awareness of your work style: how can you adapt your

approach accordingly?

How do you work? Steady / sporadic/ last minute

Consider how deadlines affect you? Do you find deadlines useful?

Discuss…

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Time FrameCONTINUED

Planner Template

http://ithinkwell.com.au/PhDToolkit/index.html

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Sources of Information

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Sources of InformationCONTINUED

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Sources of InformationCONTINUED

1. Google Scholar

2. Online databases, such as Emerald Insight, Sage Journals

3. Online tools and videos, such as Youtube, Dropbox

4. Social networking sites, such as Facebook, personal blogs, forum etc

5. Library, where you can get past theses, statistics, historical records etc

6. Potential and/or proposed supervisor(s)

7. Colleagues and/or seniors

8. Local and/or international conferences, call for papers

9. Postgraduate colloquiums, seminars and workshops

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Common Mistakes

1. Not reading enough, not writing.

2. Studying alone.

3. Ambiguous research problem.

4. Lack of relevant literature to support the study (e.g. underlying theory,

gap of study and why it is important).

5. Incomprehensible research design.

6. Limitations are not revealed/not considered thoughtfully.

7. Unsuitable respondents selection.

8. Wrong selection of analytical methods.

9. Expected results and contribution are not highlighted or explained.

10. Research proposal not clearly written, including grammatical mistakes.

11. Unfamiliar with the nomenclature and taxonomy of research paper.

12. Lack of clarity in explanation and emphasis on key points.

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Thank You

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Ernest Cyril de Run, PhDEmail: [email protected]

Hiram Ting, PhDEmail: [email protected]