Tara Brabazon podcast

Practice-led and creative-led theses and research projects have grown in popularity over the last twenty years. Often formed from an artefact and exegesis, they are not without controversy or challenge, particularly when passing through a process of examination. Tara evaluates the risk and potential of this special mode of research.

Along with research methods, the literature review is a constant - if dull - attendant to any programme of research. Yet literature reviews are not only done poorly, but are often pointless and obliquely connected to the research question or thesis statement. Tara ensures that the focus of the literature review is clear and frames the research effectively and carefully.

Teaching (and learning about) research methods is often the dullest of topics and courses. Yet methods are important, but perhaps not in the way in which they are conventionally taught. Tara talks about why methods matter, but why they must be at the service of theory.

The phrase "doing research" does not capture the complex stages and milestones between finding an idea and submitting a thesis or major assignment. Tara talks through the stages of a research project, understanding how and why examiners give high marks to some students and remove marks from others.

While the intensity of a research project is often focused on the days before submission, the success of a thesis or dissertation is often determined by the first few days of planning. Tara shows how to make that plan, and the tricks and tips that will create a successful research trajectory.

Tara introduces the fourth year research course in Communication at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology: Capstone

Steve Redhead, an expert in academic research, dives into the common characteristics of failing research projects. He shares critical insights on how students can sidestep pitfalls in their dissertations. The conversation highlights the importance of a robust bibliography and clear structure, urging students to read research papers backward to spot flaws. Redhead also emphasizes the need for meticulous editing, including grammar and organization, to enhance the quality of student projects and boost their chances of success.

Delve into the dynamic interplay between research methods and theoretical approaches in academia. Discover the tension between quantitative and qualitative methods, and the challenges of utilizing mixed approaches. Explore the critical relationship between theory and method, with a focus on the consequences of the trend towards methodology over theory. Uncover the political implications of this shift in social sciences and emphasize the importance of starting with theory to ensure meaningful research outcomes.

Nicola and Tara talk about the capacity of podcasting for assessment in professional communication programmes.

Claire and Tara explore how podcasting can be used in assessment for professional communication programmes. Claire shows how complex ideas can be presented in new ways.