STC Research Methodology

Researcher’s Attitude, Ethics, and Digital Profile Essentials 

In today’s rapidly evolving academic landscape, mastering research methodology and ethics is crucial for scholars across disciplines. During the Short Term Course on Research Methodology, participants were introduced to key aspects of developing a strong research attitude, adhering to ethical guidelines in publishing, and leveraging digital tools to enhance their scholarly work. Through three insightful presentations, the course covered fundamental topics such as the vocation of a researcher, the importance of publication ethics, and the use of modern digital platforms for creating a robust academic profile. This blog shares the highlights from these presentations, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of how to conduct ethical and impactful research in the digital age.

1. Research Attitude and Ethics in Research​

This presentation covers the fundamental aspects of research attitude and the role of ethics in the research process. It highlights the difference between a researcher and a scholar, emphasizing the vocation and spirit of scholarship. Participants will explore the mindset required for conducting genuine and ethical research, including the principles of evidence-based research and intellectual curiosity.

Key Concepts:

• Vocation of a Scholar: The presentation distinguishes between mere research and the higher calling of scholarship, highlighting the historical sense and intellectual breadth that define true scholarship.
• Mental Temperament: Law and Journalism

Assignment Questions:

1. Discuss the key differences between a researcher and a scholar, and explain why scholarly habits are essential for long-term success in academia.
2. How does Law and Journalism help in mental makeup of a research scholar in writing thesis / dissertation?

The presentation can be viewed here: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/attitude-ethics-and-journal-finder-research/271864413

2. Research and Publication Ethics (RPE) and Finding Quality Journals​

The final presentation deals with ethics in research and publication, providing guidance on selecting appropriate journals for publication. Ethical issues such as falsifiability, the philosophy of science, and the proper conduct of research are covered.

Key Concepts:

• Philosophy of Science: The importance of falsifiability, testability, and verificationism in scientific theories is discussed, alongside the challenges of justifying scientific beliefs.
• Publication Ethics: Ethical guidelines from organizations like COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) and WAME (World Association of Medical Editors) are introduced, along with the risks of predatory publishing.
• Journal Selection: The presentation highlights tools like journal suggesters (e.g., Springer, Elsevier) to help scholars find high-quality journals for their work.

Assignment Questions:

1. Discuss the concept of falsifiability in scientific research and its importance in establishing the validity of scientific theories.
2. What are the main ethical considerations in academic publishing, and how can researchers avoid falling prey to predatory journals?
3. Describe the process of selecting a journal for publication. What tools and strategies can a researcher use to find a reputable journal?

The presentation can be viewed here: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/research-and-publication-ethics-ugc/250427934

Research and Publication Ethics | UGC from Dilip Barad

3. Digital Tools for Research and Researcher Profile​

This presentation focuses on the modern tools available for research, including databases, reference management tools, and plagiarism prevention software. It also addresses the creation of a digital researcher profile on platforms like ORCID, Scopus, and Google Scholar to maintain an online academic presence.

Key Concepts:

• Research Tools: Various tools for conducting qualitative and quantitative research are introduced, such as Zotero, Mendeley, and Turnitin. Databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, and Web of Science are discussed for accessing high-quality academic papers.
• Researcher Metrics: The importance of metrics like the h-index, g-index, and journal impact factors is emphasized for evaluating research impact.
• Digital Profile Management: Scholars are encouraged to create profiles on platforms such as ORCID, Scopus, and Google Scholar to interlink their research accounts and track citations.

Assignment Questions:

1. Discuss the role of digital tools in modern research and how they help streamline the research process.
2. How can a researcher effectively manage their digital academic profile, and why is it important for career development?
3. Compare different research metrics such as h-index and g-index. Which metric do you think is the most reflective of a scholar’s impact?

The presentation can be viewed here: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/digital-tools-for-research-and-researcher-profile/271864414

UGC-RPE: Research and Publication Ethics

 A Course on Research and Publication Ethics (RPE) - for Ph.D. Students

University Grants Commission (UGC) in its 543rd meeting held on 9th August 20-19 approved two Credit Course for awareness about publication ethics and publication misconducts entitled "Research and Publication Ethics (RPE)" to be made compulsory for all PhD students for pre-registration coursework. Click here to download the syllabus.

In view of the above, many PhD scholars as well as resource persons may be in need of the recommended books to carry out this coursework. All these resources are in public domain and can be downloaded from below given links:

UGC has prepared a booklet in which all these resources are compiles. Click here to download UGC-Academic Integrity & Research Quality 

1. Beall, J. (2012). Predatory publishers are corrupting open access. Nature, 489(7415), 179-179. https://doi.org/10.1038/489179a
2. Bird, A. (2006). Philosophy of Science. Routledge.
3. Chaddah, P. (2018). Ethics in Competitive Research: Do not get Scooped; do not get Plagiarized. ISBN: 978-938748086
4. Indian National Science Academy (INSA) (2019). Ethics in Science Education, Research and Governance. ISBN: 978-81-939482-1-7. http://www.insaindia.res.in/pdf/Ethics_Book.pdf
5. MacIntyre, Alasdair (1967). A Short History of Ethics. London.
6. National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering and Institute of Medicine (2009). On Being a Scientist: A Guide to Responsible Conduct in Research: Third Edition. National Academies Press.
7. Resnik, D.B. (2011). What is Ethics in Research & Why is it Important. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 1-10. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/resources/bioethics/whatis/index.cfm