Yogyakarta, 21 November 2024 – Doctoral students (Ph.D.) in Dental Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada participated in a lecture titled “Research Methodology Application”, led by Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati Siswomihardjo, MS, affectionately known as Prof. Bundi. This course aims to equip Ph.D. students with an in-depth understanding of research methodologies, enabling them to design systematic, valid, and original research that makes significant contributions to their field.
Formulating the Research Problem. The first step in research is defining the problem statement. According to Prof. Bundi, a strong research problem must meet three key criteria: novelty, originality, and relevance to current scientific needs. “A well-defined research problem should contribute new knowledge, explore under-researched gaps, and align with current advancements,” she explained.
Developing a Hypothesis. The second step involves formulating a hypothesis based on established theoretical frameworks. Prof. Bundi stressed that a hypothesis should be grounded in proven theories, previous research findings, and the underlying mechanisms between variables. A hypothesis is not just speculation but must have a strong theoretical foundation.
Selecting the Appropriate Research Methodology. Choosing the right methodology is crucial for research success. Prof. Bundi guided students in understanding the differences between independent and dependent variables and the various data analysis techniques. Research methodology should be aligned with the study type and objectives, whether it follows a qualitative or quantitative approach.
Presenting Research Findings Systematically. In the results section, students were trained to present data clearly and systematically. Prof. Bundi highlighted that research data can vary in form (qualitative or quantitative) and scale (large or small samples). Effective presentation ensures that readers can easily interpret key research findings.
Theoretical Discussion and Interpretation. The final step is interpreting the research findings within an established theoretical framework. Prof. Bundi emphasized that a well-structured discussion connects research results with existing theories, potentially leading to new theoretical developments relevant to modern scientific contexts. Discussions may also raise new research questions for future studies.
Through this lecture, Ph.D. students in the Faculty of Dentistry at UGM are expected to gain a deeper understanding of essential research methodology stages, from problem identification to data presentation and discussion.
Prof. Bundi emphasized that the quality of research heavily depends on the precision of its methodological design. Research should not merely fulfill academic requirements but must also contribute meaningfully to science and society. This course serves as a crucial foundation for Ph.D. students in preparing their dissertations and conducting further research. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, by fostering inclusive and high-quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Contributors: Putri Raisah, S.Tr.KG., MDSc & Suci Agustina | Author: Al Haqi Insan Pratama
