A comparison between the conceptions of research of candidates enrolled for standard PhD and integrated PhD programmes

ABSTRACT

Conceptions of research, which lead to approaches to research, provide useful insights into how candidates think about research. In terms of doctoral candidate development, understanding and appreciating these various conceptions can assist in supporting candidate learning. This study evaluated differences in conceptions of research between PhD candidates commencing at an Australian university in the standard PhD programme, and those in a new structured programme termed the Integrated PhD. An online survey was distributed to both cohorts and as the findings showed, respondents’ conceptions of research were not significantly different for most categories, except Research as testing by data/experiment. Other key differences between the cohorts included their motivations for undertaking a PhD and the type of learning assistance required. The results highlight the need for structured support to help develop candidates’ understandings of knowledge creation and to recognise the variations in candidates’ conceptions of research and hence their research learning approaches.

KEYWORDS:

• Conceptions of research
• PhD entry
• scaffolding research learning
• research support
• research programmes

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict was reported by the authors.

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hairong Shan

Hairong Shan is a lecturer from Edith Cowan University, Australia. Her research interests include hospitality marketing and consumer behaviour, as well as higher education and research program design

Natasha Ayers

Natasha Ayers specialises in research and innovation projects and is currently Managing Director for a private consulting business. Previously she was the Course Coordinator for the Integrated PhD program and is currently an adjunct at Edith Cowan University.

Margaret Kiley

Margaret Kiley: For many years Margaret’s research and teaching interests have been related to the education of future researchers. She now holds an adjunct position at the Australian National University