FROM CONFUSION TO COMMITMENT: UNDERSTANDING GRADUATE STUDENTS’ STRUGGLES IN CHOOSING RESEARCH TOPICS

Abstract

In the present study, an attempt was made to explore the different problems which graduate level students of the Government Postgraduate College, Mardan are facing in selecting suitable research topics. A qualitative research design was used for this purpose as it allowed for an in-depth understanding of the personal, academic, and institutional problems faced while choosing research topics by the students. The data collection was carried out in 15 students who were selected by a purposive sampling technique using a semi-interview schedule in the 7th and 8th semesters. The Interest-Driven Theory was used as the theory of the study. Thematic analysis proposed by Braun and Clarke (2006) was employed in analysing the data aimed at finding themes and patterns of the problems faced by the students. The analysis yielded eight main themes: lack of resources, fear of failure, academic workload, financial problems, competition with other students, problems with finishing the research project, problems with supervisor feedback or guidance, and dealing with safe versus risky topics. The research results contribute to the knowledge of psychological and academic obstacles that prevent students from choosing appropriate research topics. The outcomes are anticipated to help both college students and their supervisors to facilitate and encourage students through the research process effectively.