During this semester, I am shadowing a graduate-level research and statistical methods course. A few days ago, we received notice a few days ago that all five research proposals submitted by students had been accepted to the conference. It was a great surprise!
These graduate students once asked me how I learn about research. My advice to them was that the best way to learn is by doing. I used the same example that I gave in one of my previous articles titled The Power of DOING (Read). I told them that I spent quite a long time reading the textbook and watching videos but still didn't understand statistical methods very well until I started my real research project.
So instead of using the traditional teaching methods to lecture in the classroom, my colleague (the professor of the course) pre-recorded the lectures and post them online. In the classroom, he and I demonstrated the structure of a good proposal and guided the students through the process of writing their own proposals. We are not practicing research, we are actually doing it. In less than 30 days, students learned how to write an introduction, review the literature, and use the best research method. Every Wednesday evening when I met them, I saw their progress. With conference proceedings on resumes, students can demonstrate their academic achievements, and most importantly, critical thinking that can benefit their careers.
Likewise, philanthropy is a research interest of mine. Since I wanted to become more knowledgeable about it, I decided to teach it. Now that I have been teaching this subject for 3 years, I believe my understanding of philanthropy has improved a lot, which consequently benefits my research.
Did you ever worry about your ability to learn? If you are reading this article, I encourage you to learn by doing. Struggling to learn a new language? Chat with a friend who speaks that language! Having trouble remembering the cocktail recipe? Go mix that drink! I hope this article is helpful to you. Have a great Halloween weekend!
Sincerely,
Fang
