Overview of Research Fundamentals and Ethics

Sep 20, 2024

Introduction to Research Lecture Notes

Outline of the Talk

  • Concept of the university
  • Nature of science and research
  • Classification of research problems
  • Learning and creativity in research
  • Advice for research scholars
  • Importance of ethics in research

The Idea of a University

  • Renaissance Concept: Based on three assumptions:
    1. The material world is lawful.
    2. Underlying unity in knowledge through combined study of natural and social sciences.
    3. Education leads to indefinite human progress.
  • Von Humboldt's Contribution: Research and teaching must go hand-in-hand.

Nature of Science

  • Unity vs. Industry: Science seeks unity in diversity, while industry focuses on differences.
  • Research Pyramid: Built on traditions, robust but needs modifications; theories produced by intuition and validated by logic/experiment.
  • Evolution of Science: Science evolves through deliberate idea mutation and testing.
    • must have testable consequences
    • reject ideas that fail tests or lack predictions

The Nature of Research

  • Creative Process: Complex, iterative, search for truth.
  • Types: Academic (curiosity-driven) and Developmental (application-driven).
  • Driving Forces: Fundamental understanding and practical use. Avoid unnecessary quadrants in research.

Characteristics of a Good Researcher

  • Prepared and open mind.
  • Broad interests across different fields.
  • Capacity for hard work and desire to know the truth.
  • Discrimination and aesthetics in research.
  • Ability to learn from mistakes and maintain a positive attitude towards the scientific method.

Learning and Creativity

  • Split Brain Experiments: Contributions of left (logical) and right (intuitive) brain in research.
  • Importance of nurturing both aspects to facilitate creativity.

Managing Creativity in Universities

  • Approaches:
    • Magic Garden: Hire brilliant minds and give them freedom.
    • Idea Factory: Mix unlike minds from different disciplines to foster creativity.
  • Research Park: Supports innovative technologies and collaboration between students and faculty.

Advice for Research Scholars

  • Choose your own PhD problem; it’s your thesis.
  • Expect frustration; research results come in spurts.
  • Discuss problems constantly, don’t hesitate to make mistakes.
  • Maintain a positive attitude and show interest in your work.

Ethics in Research

  • Conducting research is an exercise in ethics.
  • A well-informed public ensures responsible research applications.
  • Value of values emphasized through ethical research practices.

Conclusion

  • Ethics should guide research practices and decision-making.
  • Non-violence as a universal value in pursuing knowledge and conducting research.