Inadequacies in research methodology and the need to explore socially relevant topics came up for discussion by academicians and researchers at a recent workshop organised by the University of Kerala.
The workshop organised by the university’s Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) in association with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) focussed on quality research and knowledge creation in the field of social sciences.
The programme was organised to help scholars strengthen their research process to ensure focus and also make their efforts relevant to society. Besides delegates from Kerala University, there were participants from Mahatma Gandhi University, University of Calicut, Bharathiar University, Periyar University, and the University of Hyderabad.
Kerala University Pro Vice Chancellor P.P. Ajayakumar, who inaugurated the workshop, stressed the need to have a bridge programme prior to registration for research.
The mechanism will enable research scholars identify suitable issues keeping in focus research context and social relevance.
Societal needs
IQAC director and professor of commerce Gabriel Simon Thattil also outlined the need to identify research problems based on societal needs as well as live issues.
Academicians, who led the sessions, touched on systematic data collection methods, relevance of publication of research findings, presentation styles, and plagiarism in its various forms.
The workshop involved an open house session during which research scholars interacted with experts on issues relating to strengthening the research process.
A wide range of related issues, including preparations before research, linkage of academic institutions with professional bodies and other organisations to ensure connectivity, funding for research, and collaborations and exchange programmes were discussed.
Renovation workshop
According to Dr. Thattil, while the recommendations of the workshop will be submitted to the ICSSR, some of the suggestions will be taken up as inputs for a research renovation workshop being organised by the Kerala University. The main objective of the programme will be to strengthen the administrative support mechanism for research activities.