Research Methodology Course

Reported by: Ven. Kosalla, BA4 student

The International Buddhist College (IBC) offered a research methodology course for M.A. students from August 16, 2024 to September 17, 2024. Even though we are B.A. students, we were also given the opportunity to participate in this valuable class. During the course, we explored various research methods, learned how to formulate precise research questions as well as how to collect and analyse data. We were also taught the importance of accurate referencing and citation, and how to write and publish an academic article.

First, to start any research, we must choose a topic. But how to pick a topic? From what I have learned, we should select a topic that is important to society and to dedicate two to three months to research about it. The most important thing to do is to create our topic as a question. Here are the steps outlining a basic process for conducting research: 1. Select a topic 2. Focus on the question 3. Design the Study 4. Collect the data 5. Analyse the data 6. Interpret the data and 7. Inform others.

A very important knowledge that I have gained from this course is "how to give references, citations, and footnotes correctly". Before this course, I did not know much about referencing styles, but now I understand them better. I now know that for Buddhist studies, we may use MLA, APA, or Chicago styles. However, IBC recommends us to use the Chicago style for research work.

Finally, I was also taught the strategies for writing and publishing an academic article, including the publication process, research output/raw data, journal selection, and so on. Although I am not yet ready to publish a journal article, I believe that this course will be beneficial for me in the future.

To sum up, I have learnt a variety of skills during the sessions including how to select question themes, collect and evaluate data, and provide references, citations, and so on. Thanks to all the professors and teachers for sharing their wonderful expertise with us. Our appreciation also goes to the management for allowing us to participate in this unbelievable class.