PhD P1 - Navigating the Academic Landscape: A Deliberative Approach to Doctoral Research

This is the first of a multi-part series where I attempt to prepare a proposal to undertake a PhD-grade research project. I'm using two papers to help me:
 
Perry, C. (2002) A structured approach to presenting theses: Notes for students and their supervisors. [Online]. Accessed 12 June 2015. http://users.ugent.be/~dgosseli/Presentations/PhD-Thesis-Approach.pdf. 

Shambare, R. (2019) Presenting a PhD research proposal: A guide for commerce students, African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, 13:1, 109-123, DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2019.1638586.

The writings have all appeared in 'human hand' on my LinkedIN account, and I have used ChatGPT to rewrite this into podcast format, and then Descript to add my virtual disembodied voice. 

This might not be the most exciting episode on the channel, but the series is worth listening to in case you are considering this expensive and time-consuming pathway/

Transcript

Welcome, dear listeners, to a special series on The Incongruent, where we embark on an extraordinary journey—one that delves into the world of academia, research, and the pursuit of a PhD. I'm your host, Stephen King, and I'm excited to take you along as we navigate the twists and turns of preparing a proposal to be accepted onto a PhD programme.

With each episode will bring you insights, reflections, and perhaps a few unexpected turns as we follow the guidance of eminent scholars. So, whether you're a seasoned academic, a curious mind, or just someone who appreciates a good story, join me on The Incongruent as we embark on this PhD quest together.

 EPISODE 1

 The inception of this expedition dates back to the commencement of 2023 when I joined Middlesex University Dubai's PhD support group. This collective forum, convened regularly since January, has served as an invaluable platform for discussing research progress, sharing concerns, and providing essential emotional support. 

At the outset of this academic odyssey, I found myself at a crossroads, contemplating two potential directions for my doctoral research. The first avenue involved an extension of my master's dissertation in Higher Education, which I had succinctly summarized in the HR Observer during the preceding summer.  

The second path intrigued me with its exploration of TikTok storytelling conventions. While both projects retained their validity for further investigation, a captivating conundrum emerged during the early summer—one centered around student competitions organized by industry. Over the course of nearly ten months, I have immersed myself in the study of this intriguing topic. This intellectual exploration has revealed a profound connection to the prerequisites for promotion to the rank of associate professor, as delineated in Table 1.  

 Recognizing this alignment, I have resolved that the upcoming phase of my research blogs will be dedicated to unraveling the intricate steps necessary to attain the pinnacle of academic qualification—the doctorate. 

 Within the realm of doctoral pursuits, the landscape unfolds in myriad ways, each path distinguished by its unique nuances. The subsequent sections of this document will delve deeper into the diverse flavors of PhD programs, providing a comprehensive exploration of their characteristics and implications. However, in this initial segment, my quest for insight draws inspiration from Richard Shambare's guide, "Presenting a PhD Research Proposal", as a foundational step towards navigating the intricate process of crafting a research proposal. 

Shambare's guide serves as a beacon, offering pearls of wisdom that illuminate the crucial aspects of presenting a compelling research proposal. Recognizing the significance of this preliminary stage in the doctoral journey, Shambare's insights become instrumental in shaping the trajectory of one's academic pursuit. The art of articulating a research proposal is akin to polishing a gem; it requires precision, clarity, and a keen understanding of the intricate facets that constitute a robust academic foundation. 

As I draw from Shambare's wisdom, the focus is not only on the technicalities of proposal presentation but also on the broader ethos of scholarly communication. The nuances of effective proposal presentation extend beyond the mere conveyance of research objectives; they encompass the cultivation of a narrative that engages, inspires, and instills confidence in the significance of the proposed research endeavor. 

In the subsequent sections of this document, a more granular exploration of diverse PhD trajectories will unfold, offering prospective researchers a roadmap for navigating the varied landscapes of doctoral studies. By amalgamating Shambare's insights with an in-depth analysis of PhD program typologies, this document aims to equip aspiring scholars with the knowledge and foresight essential for making informed decisions about their academic trajectory. 

  

Part 1 - I love it when a plan comes together 

 I find immense satisfaction in witnessing the meticulous orchestration of a well-conceived plan, a sentiment echoed by my exploration of Richard Shambare's guide on presenting a PhD research proposal. Shambare's elucidation on the nature of a research  proposal as a comprehensive plan aligns seamlessly with my experiences in the dissertation phases of my postgraduate endeavors. The ethical considerations inherent in the research process have consistently compelled me to think ahead, mitigating potential pitfalls and ensuring a thoughtful approach to scholarly inquiry. 

Shambare's guide, presented with commendable clarity, outlines the components of a robust PhD research proposal. While the elements may not appear daunting at first glance, the crux lies in the meticulous attention to detail—a sentiment the author passionately underscores. This emphasis on quality, rather than sheer quantity, sets the stage for a proposal that transcends the ordinary.  

Part 2 - The PhD Speak Easy 

 As I navigate through the initial stages of formulating my proposal, Shambare injects a layer of complexity into an otherwise straightforward process. The imperative lies in encapsulating a fundamental thought or concept that succinctly showcases mastery over the discipline.  

Drawing from Shambare's example of the "show me the money" principle in the context of a business PhD, I am compelled to distill the essence of my proposal, bridging the realms of media and education, by articulating a core principle that resonates with the chosen field.  

Part 3 -  The beauty of a proposal is in the eye of the supervisor 

 The concept of a proposal's beauty residing in the eye of the supervisor resonates deeply. Beyond showcasing my capacity for independent research, the proposal must weave new insights into the existing body of knowledge, a task necessitating a strategic alignment with Shambare's 15-point structure and six evaluative scales. 

While some checklist items present minimal challenges—clear focus, worthiness of study, and technical strength—others, such as demonstrating an "adequate understanding of the debates in the literature," loom as formidable hurdles. The expanse of required reading, a hallmark of the PhD journey, evokes a sense of both excitement and trepidation. Yet, Shambare's guidance on navigating the literature process, utilizing Perry's four dimensions as a funnel, provides a valuable compass. 

Perry's dimensions, encompassing discipline, parent theories, contextual settings, and the research gap, offer a systematic approach to literature review. This structured funnel not only aids in identifying pertinent literature but also assists in formulating a well-grounded research problem and associated hypotheses within a conceptual framework. 

In conclusion, Shambare's guide emerges as essential reading for anyone embarking on the challenging yet rewarding task of preparing a PhD proposal. Armed with this newfound knowledge, my next step involves translating this structured approach into a tangible Word document, laying the foundation for a proposal that aligns with the highest standards of scholarly inquiry. The journey is undeniably complex, yet the prospect of contributing to the evolving tapestry of academic knowledge propels me forward with unwavering enthusiasm.   

Part 4 Funneling through literature 

 Fortuitously, Shambare furnishes a valuable instrument to navigate the labyrinth of literature review. This tool, rooted in Perry's four dimensions of literature, assumes the form of a funnel, a strategic guidepost for the discerning researcher. These dimensions, meticulously outlined by Shambare, contribute a structured approach to the literature exploration process: 

"Discipline," as the intellectual perimeter of the study, establishes the foundational boundaries of inquiry, exemplified by disciplines such as education. This dimension not only delineates the scope but also facilitates an exploration of the common investigative paradigms within the chosen field. 

"Parent theories" emerge as the scaffolding that supports a specific research topic. By delineating the theories and frameworks relevant to the subject matter, this dimension lays the groundwork for a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical landscape. 

"Contextual settings" provide a panoramic view of the phenomena under scrutiny within a defined geographical area or specific organizational context, be it a company or industry. This dimension accentuates the importance of  situating the research within a broader environmental context. 

"The research gap" constitutes a critical facet, elucidating how the void in existing literature was discerned and subsequently evolved into a research problem. This dimension further guides the formulation of a specific problem statement, research questions, hypotheses, and their alignment within a conceptual framework. 

In drawing from Shambare's insightful synthesis of Perry's dimensions, the literature review process transforms into a systematic progression. The funnel metaphor, representing the narrowing focus from the broad discipline to the specific research gap, is an elegant heuristic for streamlining the often daunting task of literature exploration. 

In light of the intricacies revealed through Shambare's exposition, it becomes apparent that this guide is indispensable for aspirants undertaking the intricate journey of crafting a PhD proposal. The meticulous attention to detail in identifying and addressing these four dimensions not only streamlines the literature review but also serves as a foundation for robust problem formulation and hypothesis development. 

To encapsulate the significance of Shambare's guide without duplicating its entirety, it suffices to emphasize its status as essential reading for anyone embarking on the formidable task of preparing a PhD proposal. The roadmap laid out by this guide is undeniably invaluable, providing clarity and structure amid the often complex landscape of academic inquiry. 

 Part 5 Validating the subject of inquiry with Chad Perry  

 Venturing into the realm of Chad Perry's guidance on crafting a PhD proposal, I now embark on a comprehensive exploration of key considerations within the nexus of industry-organized student awards and higher education. Perry, a scholar of notable acclaim, articulates pivotal checkpoints to deliberate upon when delineating the contours of one's chosen area of study. 

According to Perry, three critical factors stand as cornerstones when selecting a research topic. The chosen area must promise a distinct contribution to the body of knowledge, achieved through an original investigation or the testing of ideas. Additionally, it necessitates a demonstration of competence in research processes and a mastery of the relevant body of knowledge, inclusive of the ability to critically engage with published works and source materials. The integration of these criteria forms the bedrock of a robust research foundation and may be further nuanced by specific requirements outlined by the supervisor or the academic institution. 

Perry advocates for a five-chapter structure tailored for "marketing and related areas", encompassing key elements such as an Introduction, Research Issues, Methodology, Analysis, and Conclusions and Implications. This structured framework not only serves as a roadmap for the unfolding narrative of the thesis but also aligns with Shambare's insights on the meticulous planning essential for a PhD proposal. The synchronicity between Shambare's and Perry's recommendations underscores the importance of a well-defined and methodically executed research plan. 

As a practical guide, Perry outlines a schedule spanning 27 months for the completion of a 65,000-word thesis employing two research methodologies. This detailed timetable not only aids in conceptualizing the temporal aspects of the research journey but also addresses the criteria set forth by Shambare for a comprehensive research plan. 

With this structural foundation in place, I now navigate through Perry's checklist, a systematic approach designed to substantiate the choice of topic as a valid and valuable contribution to academic literature. This iterative process ensures that each facet of the research endeavor aligns cohesively with the overarching goal of advancing the scholarly discourse within the intersection of industry-organized student awards and higher education. 

In essence, Perry's guidance converges with Shambare's insights, providing a complementary framework for crafting a comprehensive and well-grounded PhD proposal. As I delve deeper into Perry's checklist, the conviction grows that this meticulous approach is indispensable for not only justifying the chosen research topic but also for charting a course that culminates in a meaningful and impactful academic contribution. 

 Part 6 - Topic should "fascinate  sufficiently to endure... years of hard & solitary work" 

 Having been immersed in the realm of industry awards since the turn of the millennium, my journey in this domain began as early as 2000 when, as an executive associate at TEAM LEWIS, I successfully identified, drafted, and submitted a winning entry for Objectronix—a UK-based reseller of Checkpoint firewalls—at the Network Security magazine awards. This initial foray set the stage for a longstanding involvement with industry accolades. 

Between 2006 and 2013, my responsibilities expanded to include the monitoring, evaluation, and activation of awards received by the Etisalat Group. This period marked a prolific era, witnessing my entrepreneurial endeavors as a freelance consultant, where I collaborated with the Middle East Public Relations Association and played a pivotal role in the annual awards ceremony. Simultaneously, my own venture garnered recognition as a top Start-up Innovation by ITP's Arabian Business Start-up Middle East magazine. 

Upon joining Middlesex University Dubai in 2015, my commitment to nurturing emerging talent materialized through mentoring dozens of students in submitting entries for various competitions, resulting in well-deserved recognitions. 

My involvement in the adjudication of industry awards further underscores my dedication to this domain. Serving as a judge for prestigious events such as the ICCO Inter-university PR World Cup 2022, The Incredibles, and the Young Global Changemakers Award, I have contributed to recognizing exceptional talent within the industry. Additionally, I've had the honor of presenting awards, including the young communicator of the year accolades at MEPRA and PRCA MENA-organized events, as well as participating in the annual Model UN simulation competition. 

In acknowledgment of my contributions, I have received accolades, both individually and as part of the careers and employability team at our university. The One Middlesex Award for Outstanding Contributions to Putting Students First and an Innovation Award for Administrative Services, both bestowed in 2020, stand as testaments to the impact of my work on our campus. 

My enduring fascination with the intersection of industry awards and academia has transcended professional spheres and taken root in the academic arena. My engagement in two academic conferences, including the Annual Learning and Teaching Conference at our home campus earlier this year and the recent participation at the University of Johannesburg and Lund University's Strategic Communications Conference (Figure 5), underscores the scholarly dimension of my commitment. 

As I reflect on Perry's first criterion—making a distinct contribution to a body of knowledge through an original investigation or testing of ideas—I am confident that this box is thoroughly checked. My extensive practical involvement in industry awards, coupled with a dedicated academic exploration of the topic, positions me as a practitioner-scholar uniquely poised to unravel the complexities at the intersection of industry-organized student awards and higher education. This conviction propels me forward as I embark on the intellectual journey of preparing a PhD proposal that encapsulates the wealth of insights and experiences garnered throughout my professional and academic trajectory. 

 Part 7 - Establishing the foundations for future research 

 Entering the second dimension of Chad Perry's comprehensive PhD checklist, a pivotal element in gauging the legitimacy of the selected research focus, this section delves into the intricate landscape of my intended study. Herein lies an exploration of how my prospective investigation into the convergence of industry awards and higher education, with a particular emphasis on vocational settings, seamlessly extends and synthesizes the groundwork laid by my past research endeavors—both within formal academic frameworks and in more informal, experiential contexts. 

 Part 8 - Topic should build on the student's previous studies 

 To avoid redundancy with previously published content, it's essential to underscore my extensive involvement in the industry awards domain, spanning a remarkable 25 years. Over this extensive period, I have amassed a wealth of  knowledge, cultivated an extensive network of industry contacts, and conducted substantial albeit informal analyses of the subject matter and related debates. My firsthand perspectives have been cultivated through various roles, each offering unique insights.

This extensive historical knowledge, gained through diverse roles, offers a valuable foundation that can potentially guide research in numerous directions. The depth of my experience could indeed fuel a vivid autobiography centered solely on this rich array of experiences. However, while historical knowledge provides a robust platform, the academic rigor demands a more structured and peer-reviewed approach, necessitating engagement with formal research processes, including ethics committee procedures. 

The genesis of the current study lies in the conclusion of my second Master's degree thesis in "Higher Education - Leadership Management." The focus of this dissertation was on anchoring innovations discovered in a remote classroom back into the core curriculum. The findings from this research, totaling 10,000 words, have been presented at the Middlesex University Dubai ICTIS Conference through both a poster and an oral presentation, as well as in the university's weekly research symposium. 

This body of work stands ready for publication, prompting the need to prepare its submission to at least one journal before embarking on a formal PhD. Beyond this, I've undertaken leaps, denoted as Hop, Skip, and Jump, using this research as a springboard. These endeavors include participation in the Middlesex University ALTC 2023, the University of Johannesburg and Lund University's Strategic Communications Conference, and an invitation to deliver a keynote at the forthcoming HCT International General Education Conference next year. 

In preparation for these engagements, I have contributed articles to my newsletter, The Spill, and converted them into podcast episodes for The Incongruent Podcast (Figure 8). These initiatives have already yielded significant outcomes, providing impetus to maximize the returns on the effort invested. 

A notable development from this series of posts is the creation of two models to assess the value and success of a student-targeted industry award. Leveraging rubrics based on assessment theory for technical and vocational education, as well as student satisfaction tools like HEdPerf, these models represent a strategic leap. This has evolved into the development of a qualitative research study protocol, currently under discussion with various award organizers to secure their approval prior to seeking ethics committee endorsement. 

The immediate benefits of this ongoing series of posts are evident in their capacity to generate momentum, driving further exploration of potential papers and maximizing the impact of efforts already expended. The ongoing journey promises not only to contribute to academic discourse but also to propel innovative practices toward enduring legacies. 

End of Episode 1

And there you have it, dear listeners—the end of our inaugural episode on The Incongruent—PhD Edition. I hope you enjoyed our journey into the world of academia, research, and the pursuit of the elusive PhD qualification.

If you found this episode insightful or entertaining, make sure to hit that subscribe button to stay tuned for more riveting insights and behind-the-scenes moments as we navigate the twists and turns of preparing a PhD proposal. Your support means the world to us.

And, of course, we'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment or a review if you feel compelled. Your thoughts and feedback are not only welcomed but cherished.

Until next time, fellow seekers of knowledge, this is Stephen King signing off. Remember, the quest for a PhD is not just a journey; it's an adventure. Stay incongruent, stay curious, and I'll catch you in the next episode.