The DDLR Model of Research Process for Designing Robust and Realizable Research Methodology During Ph.D. Program in India

Abstract

Purpose: To develop a holistic and comprehensive model of the research process which would help Ph.D. scholars in designing a robust and realizable research methodology during their Ph.D. program.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Postmodernism philosophical paradigm; Inductive research approach; Observation data collection method; Longitudinal data collection time frame; Qualitative data analysis.

Findings/Result: We determinedly believe that the DDLR model of the research process would cease all the predispositions, misconceptions, and misunderstandings about doctoral-level research and research methodology/design. As long as the Ph.D. scholars can understand all the sixteen steps of the DDLR model and make mindful choices in each step they will be able to convert a complicated Ph.D. journey into an intellectually challenging and interesting journey thereby generating original and significant research outputs.

Originality/Value: Of course, we have not invented anything new in the DDLR model. But, for sure we have discovered a systematic way of arranging all the available steps of doing research in a well-thought-through process flow that is appropriate and applicable for scholars admitted to Ph.D. programs across disciplines. In addition, the DDLR model would enable Ph.D. scholars in designing a robust and realizable research methodology. There are several books, materials, blogs, articles, etc that are produced by many authors about research methodology. However, they have attempted to focus on a specific step of the research process. Developing the DDLR model is an attempt to collate all the existing knowledge about research methodology that is useful for Ph.D. scholars (to-be-doctorates).

Paper Type: Conceptual model.