14 September 2009

"Spring Research Series": Enabling IPC Research Community

A Series of Seminar and Workshop to Enhance Faculty Members' Research Skill

Translated by Shirley Ghozalli. Edited by Moira Blake.

IPC President Prof. Wayne Edwards showing his research article in a specialized magazine

IPC lecturer Dr Nonna Danchenko delivers a presentation on research into English language teaching methodology

Aside from teaching in classes, IPC faculty members have the obligation of developing their own area of expertise by conducting research. It is important for them to improve their research skills, to exchange ideas, and to encourage each other in their research. For this purpose, a series of seminars and workshops called "Spring Research Series" was organized.

There are 6 parts to the series. The faculty members will do comparative studies of their own research techniques, such as data gathering, different ways of approaching topics, and presentation. During the series, expert guest speakers will also share their expertise on data analysis and research methodology.

At the seminar on 26th August, which was the first part of the series, IPC President Prof. Wayne Edwards emphasized the benefits of doing research. He expressed the view that research not only expands an individual's own expertise, but also when the knowledge obtained is shared, it is beneficial for other people too. The results of a research project should be made widely known inside and outside one's own country by submitting it to specialized magazines. Prof Edwards also announced his plan to establish an award ceremony to promote research in the IPC community.

Four lecturers presented their research at this seminar. One of them was Karen Dunn, who is in charge of the Writing Support project, where students help other students with their English writing. Karen elaborated on the best methods in giving writing support and the key assessments in her research.

The second part of the series took place the following week on Wednesday, 9th September. For this part, IPC librarian Tracey Armstrong conducted a workshop on database searches and query commands to enhance the research process.

This "Spring Research Series" is not open only to faculty members. Students are also welcome to participate.

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