Theories, methodologies and perspectives. Oh my!

Theories, methodologies and perspectives - what are they? It's been a long time between blog posts and I can say it's mostly because I have been disillusioned by the question - which methodology fits my research?

So after exploring Narrative Inquiry (NI) whereby the researcher retells participants' stories through listening, observing and interviewing their lived experiences, I've concluded that (insert family feud's wrong buzzer here) that NI is not quite the right methodology for my research project. It's not wrong just not right either.

The socio-cultural perspective is still on the right track and it fits with the current track of thinking with- Third Space Theory and Appreciative Inquiry. 

If you want to learn more about Third Space Theory (I'm still learning!) Check out Dr Adam Fraser and Appreciative Inquiry in a nutshell is in the below cartoon.

So until next time, I need to make sure that instead of read, read, read, I need to read, reflect and (w)rite and get back into the Phd life!

http://blogs.oregonstate.edu/programevaluation/2015/12/29/appreciative-inquiry/

3MT top tips to successfully compete

Last week, I finally competed in the much anticipated Three Minute Thesis or 3MT. As I am at the beginning of my journey, I didn't have data and I believe this will definitely be a plus the next time I take part in the 3MT.

After stalking previous 3MT winners on YouTube and following the 3MT hashtag on twitter, I have collated a list of tips for successfully standing up and presenting your thesis in three minutes. Now that I have completed my first 3MT, I can also add a little humour may help!

So here's my list:

• Interesting catchy title
• Engaging introduction/opening line
• The question/s
• How I went about it
• Final message
• Eye contact
• Enthusiasm
• Wear dark clothes
• No notes- from memory

Also include:

 

Recent research suggests (no refs)... What about exploring pre-service Teachers lived experiences and sharing their voice?

Results will lead to further research...

 

Now although I didn't win, I feel I did have success as I achieved my goals - one of them standing up there and getting through it!

 

What would you add to my list?

I have 'readitis'

This is the realisation that I had today during a workshop presented by Hugh Kearns. 'Readitis' is where I read and read and find more wonderful things to read from what i just read that I don't actually give myself a chance to write.

You may remember from my 'PhD must-reads' post that I recently added a series of books by Hugh Kearns and Maria Gardiner. Today's workshop was based on one of their books, The Seven Secrets of Highly Successful Research Students. 

Kearns presents an engaging workshop that provides a real and doable guide to successfully complete a Higher Degree by Research. Check out his website www.ithinkwell.com.au for free tools and resources.

The very beginning

This blog has been started to document my journey from Masters Research Student to Doctoral Student and beyond.

Today marks the day, I handed in my research project for perusal by my supervisor to seek permission to submit (no doubt I'll have to make some changes!) . It is now that I believe my PhD journey begins. I need to think about my next research topic, find two supervisors and write a research proposal to be accepted for candidature into my current University.

I also hope to obtain a scholarship, however before I look any more into that,  the research proposal is more important to complete.

So, I hope you enjoy reading about my journey, the highs and lows, and if you are also a PhD candidate can share in the adventures that lay ahead.

Jillian