Pragmatic Problems in Programs of Research

Larry D. Gruppen, Ph.D.

University of Michigan, USA

Two Types of “Program of Research”

• The Dolmans definition: 1.

A series of studies that build upon each other using various theoretical perspectives and methodologies 2.

Aligning or coordinating research plans/agendas • Differences between individual vs. group programs of research

Individual Programs Pros

• Managing the program activities • Continuity in perspective and building on prior results • Individual motivation

Cons

• Limited theoretical or methodological approaches • Responsible for everything – no sharing the workload • Individual motivation

Group Programs Pros

• Richer range of expertise and perspectives • Access to more resources • Greater continuity in the program – not dependent on one person

Cons

• Defining the program • Sharing and collaboration • Maintaining the group • Shifting group membership • More competing priorities and distractions

Pragmatic Issues – General

Defining the Program of Research

• Significant question – fundable, theoretical, publishable, practical • Interesting to you – motivation • Feasible – opportunities, resources, expertise, methods

Funding and Resources

• Funding protects time and provides “legitimacy” for the program • Funding is difficult to find • Government • Foundations • Institutional • “Hidden”

Funding and Resources

• Necessary resources depend on methodology and research questions • Transcription • Data management and analysis • Measurement • Access and permissions

Pragmatic Issue – Individual Programs

Depth vs. Breadth

• “Program of research” implies depth • Depth can show intellectual rigor and define a ‘reputation’ • “Who do you think of when topic X arises?” • Breadth demonstrates flexibility • Many medical educators must do many things

Maintaining Focus

• Competing demands of one’s job • Needs of others often take precedent • Competing professional priorities • Excel in research, patient care, or teaching?

• Intellectual distractions • Researchers tend to be curious about many things

Pragmatic Issues – Group Programs

Forming the Group

• Shared interest/commitment • Complementary expertise – theory, methods • Openness to alternative ideas and approaches • Access to needed resources • Personal compatibility • Generosity and altruism

Maintaining the Group

• Frequent communication • Clear assignments and deadlines • Define authorship/ownership issues • Publicity – local and (inter)national communities

In Conclusion

• What Lambert and Diana said: • Collaborate and network (AMEE provides perfect opportunity) • Respect the complexity of important questions • Count the costs of pursuing a program of research and prepare for them