Research Box

In this episode of Research Box, Dr Russell Thackeray and Professor Annette Fillery Travis, discuss the ongoing tension between practitioner-based and academic research. The conversation explores the perceived value and rigour of practitioner research, the importance of practice theory, and how both types of research contribute to the body of knowledge within various fields. They also debate wheth...

In this episode of Research Box, Dr Russell Thackeray and Professor Annette Fillery Travis discuss the evolving landscape of Higher Education. They reflect on the historical context of education before and after Blair's policies, the shift from an elitist to a more democratised system, and the impact of massification on the purpose and quality of higher education. Topics include the balance betwee...

In this episode of Research Box, hosts Professor Annette Fillery Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray delve into the nuances of academic writing. They explore how to make academic texts engaging and accessible. They discuss the importance of clarity, argument development, and the effective use of writing as a tool for inquiry. Their conversation also touches on common challenges and strategies for main...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray explore the challenges of discerning truth in today's world. They delve into the historical and contemporary factors affecting our perception of truth, including the role of propaganda, herd mentality, and the construction of knowledge. The discussion emphasises the importance of critical thinking, examining biases, and maintainin...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of ethics, informed consent, and maintaining the authenticity of research data, emphasising the need for clear contracts and proper record-keeping. They also highlight the challenges of balancing individual perspectives with the broader community's needs in action research, and the role of a research coach i...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray are joined by Jiameng Sun, a researcher from China, to discuss her research on cultivating employability competence for Chinese language practitioners in the 21st century, using Pierre Boudieu's capital theory. Jiameng shared her research journey, emphasising the importance of passion and relevance in choosing a research question...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss what happens after the research is completed and how do we get the impact ‘out there’. Subjects covered include: Technology Understanding the need for research to demonstrate its impact and contribution to knowledge The ’story’ A checklist for practical application including how to build a 'buzz' in your potential audience...

In this episode, Professor Annette Fillery -Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the challenges and potential solutions for collecting and analysing data, particularly in the context of interviews. They explored various tools and platforms for data collection, analysis, and collaboration, emphasising the importance of not losing touch with the real sense of the data. They also discussed the use...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of evidence in research, particularly in the context of drug trials, end-of-life care, and the COVID-19 pandemic. They also explored the different levels of evidence, the process of building evidence through literature research, and the effectiveness of supplements. Lastly, they discussed the components of a...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of defining the type of knowledge they aim to produce in their research and the intricacies of decision-making in choosing a school. They also explored various types of knowledge, the role of interdisciplinary knowledge, and the concept of epistemology in their current knowledge measurement system. Lastly, t...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of research questions in guiding focused and impactful research, differentiating them from hypotheses and the need for clear research questions that can be effectively evaluated. Lastly, they emphasise the significance of crafting a well-structured proposal for a university, the benefits of combining researc...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray dive deeper into Literature Reviews. Just summarising some of the key themes discussed so far…. Making sure you have the basics in place Getting a structure and using mind maps or diagram Research logs Bibliography Software Different pots of research authority Criticality Using sounding boards You can find out more about research...

This week Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray dive deeper into Literature Reviews. Where to find sources of literature Using libraries Different types of literature and validity Finding themes and areas to explore References and how to save time and effort How to read a paper efficiently Keeping notes and staying organised You can find out more about research coaching and gat...

We are back after the Summer recess...!! This week Professor Annette Fillery Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray talk about Literature Reviews. What’s the conversation about and how to you learn it, add to it and respond to future enhancements? What’s out there? What are different perspectives? How are people talking about and how? How to use the literature to keep you on track and keep you motivated...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of research in fostering personal growth, challenging assumptions, and advancing professional practices. They discuss the benefits of applied research, the need for an open mind, and the significance of curiosity and skepticism in the research process. They underscore the importance of research in surpassing routine a...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray are joined by Dr Siân Astley- Secrétaire Générale de EuroFIR AISBL The group had a wide ranging conversation including: The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, open science, and disseminating research to a broader audience was emphasised, particularly in the context of biology, medicine, and food research. They discuss the challe...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of professional networks, the impact of research, and the need for openness and collaboration in their fields. They share success stories of collaborative research and the benefits of cross-sector collaborations, as well as the significance of actively disseminating research through various channels. Lastly, they emph...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the importance of authenticity, objectivity, and ethics in research, and the role of a critical friend in ensuring well-rounded research. They also discuss the significance of personal expectations, bracketing different perspectives, and the benefits of collaboration in research. The various subject areas include: Authenticity, Obje...

Prof Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss discuss a conceptual framework for research, emphasisisng the importance of defining purpose, impact, authenticity, and personal growth. They explore the need for a reflective approach, challenging assumptions, and considering positionality in research. Additionally, they touch upon supervisory practices, pacing work, and utilising commu...

Prof Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the purpose and methods in research, emphasising its value in providing useful information and its role in decision-making. They also explore the growing significance of critical thinking in research, the process of pursuing a PhD, and the importance of building upon existing ideas. Annette outlines that research is a systematic inquiry...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discuss the evolving dynamics in the field of research and the concept of the ‘Research Box’. Annette shares her insights on the changing academic landscape, emphasising that it presents an opportunity rather than a restriction. They also discuss the importance of both technical and professional skills for researchers, including team collab...

Professor Annette Fillery-Travis and Dr Russell Thackeray discussed the concept behind the Research Box podcast series. It will cover a wide range of subjects including the evolving dynamics in the field of research, emphasizing the importance of team collaboration, communication with interdisciplinary groups, and securing research grants. Annette shared her academic journey and her experiences fr...