Research can sometimes feel like something other people do. In our day-to-day work we might have questions, notice patterns, or have ideas about how to improve practice. However, turning these questions and ideas into a piece of research fit for publication can feel like a much bigger step.
This summer, the Journal of Information Literacy (JIL) sponsored two practical workshops designed to help LIS professionals take these steps. The sessions explored the process of developing a research idea through to turning that research into a journal article.
You’re Probably Already Doing Research: Designing and Conducting a Research Project
The first workshop focused on the process of designing and conducting a research project. A clear takeaway is that research does not have to be something that sits outside everyday practice. It can begin with a problem we encounter, something we notice in our teaching or services, or a question about why something happens. The workshop explored how these initial ideas can be turned into a research question, and from there into a research design.
The breakout rooms provided an opportunity for attendees to share their ideas for potential research projects, and workshop them into something practical and realistic. From the discussion and wrap-up afterwards, it was clear that attendees felt inspired and had a good starting point for their projects going forward.
Finding Your ‘Academic Voice’: Writing for Research Journals
The follow-up workshop enabled attendees to explore the next step in the process: turning their research project into a journal article. It explored what is meant by ‘academic writing’, and how attendees can develop their own academic voice. It provided guidance on structuring different types of research articles and how to decide where to submit work for publication.
The emphasis on developing an outline was particularly valuable. Writing an article can seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into sections and identifying the purpose of each part provides a more approachable starting point.
Overall, both workshops provided a helpful insight into the research process. Finding the time, confidence and support to undertake research can be challenging. These sessions offered a practical and supportive space to explore these challenges, share ideas and to think about how research can be part of everyday practice.
Thank you to everyone who joined, and to the JIL editors Yvonne, Sarah and Alison for putting together these fantastic workshops! Both can be watched in full on the ILG YouTubechannel.
Article by Bethan Morgan, ILG Events Co-ordinator
These sessions were sponsored by the Journal of Information Literacy, which is an open-access journal that publishes innovative and challenging research articles and project reports that push the boundaries of information literacy thinking in theory, practice and method. We welcome submissions from librarians, scholars and practitioners alike!
Recordings of both sessions can be found below: