Visualising the Doctoral Research Process: An Exploration into Empirical Research Processes of Emerging Researchers

Abstract

Abstract. The completion of a doctoral programme requires a fundamental knowledge of the research process. It is assumed and expected by academic staff that PhD students are aware of the research process prior to undertaking doctoral research. This study addresses the degree to which these assumptions are valid, by investigating doctoral students" understanding and practices of doctoral research. Nine doctoral students, at various phases of their dissertation and from different discipline backgrounds, were asked to illustrate, through diagrams, the processes involved in their doctoral research. They were invited to discuss their illustrated ideas and explain in more detail the processes and practices they employed, including the role of technology. The findings revealed a variety of processes characterised as: a) Linear vs. Non-linear; b) Traditional vs. Non-traditional; c) Simple vs. Complicated. In addition, the students exhibited diverse styles of presenting the research process through: 1) the way they started their research; 2) the language they used to describe the process; and 3) the linearity and complexity of their doctoral research. The paper concludes with a number of important insights with regard to the student"s perceptions and practices of undertaking doctoral research. Confusion in these areas is a matter that directly affects the outcome of the dissertation as well as the PhD student"s future research practices.