UNISAMDBootcampAcadwrite2016 Tshwane University of Technology Faculty of Economics and Finance Some thoughts on “Research” TUT Campus – 22 September 2017 Presenter Prof Dave Lubbe

Contents 1. Introduction and background 2. A few background aspects 3. Overview on “Academic Writing” 4. Conclusion 5. Questions and comments

1 Introduction and background Thank you! Opportunities – “unbelievable” Just scratch surface! Thousands of books on research methodology and writing No specific order – try keep practical Interact – please!!!

2 A few background aspects Accountants – left brain – creativity, etc. “Problems” in SA education – writing, etc. “Problems” at SA universities i.e. Number and quality of good supervisors Standards of students “Problems” at Accountancy faculties/schools Largely driven by CA training (“teaching”) Compare with i.e. natural sciences, humanities What will distinguish you as an academic? What is the main aim(s) of supervising you?

3 Overview on “academic writing” Writing is a BIG part of pass/fail!!! Thinking and creativity Basics – what, why, when, where, how, etc. Language – spell check PLUS professional Flow – tell “story” Consistent – many aspects – i.e. terminology Generalisation – i.e. “… first study/ … all …” Apples and pears – i.e. different countries

(continue) Paragraphs – one sentence No sources – i.e. about “facts” – “audit evidence” Just relative “old” sources Referencing – in text – i.e. year and page number(s) – Singh (2016:25) – “not later” How many sources??? – cut off date Page numbers – from starting dissertation Bibliography – referencing – as above – many methods – i.e. Harvard

(continue) Technology – i.e. Mendeley, End Note, Word Referencing Tool Benefits – many “Dark side” “Heavy” reliance on one author – “important aspect” – also refer to “old sources” – i.e. corruption in SA … Just one source for “critical” part - refer above Only internet sources (Wikipedia!) Cross-referencing Footnotes – limited – law

(continue) Role of study leader/mentor vs candidate Sometimes lonely journey In “other” disciplines … Standards??? “Soft option” – run not hide!! Examining – failing PhD …. Supervisors “head on the block” Social/community responsibility vs. research Poverty Community – science – sample Refer next slide

(continue) What is the “value” of research? Fundamental question – role of universities? Cross-subsidizing – i.e. music Part of financing of universities “First writings” ALWAYS draft!! Read, read, read Other Master and PhD’s – i.e. Pro-quest (UMI) Topics – many aspects Methodology – just a “tool” not the thesis Aim/purpose – only “once” – different!

(continue) Identify possible publications and presentations – during writing Choice of journal, conference, etc. Ratings Predatory journals “Popular” publications Networks “Over borders” – but focus Title – art – include i.e. country??? USA – “quick fix/recipe” – course work

4. Conclusion Just overview Use “tips” from the start Attend Writing Retreat(s) if possible Research “jargon” should not be the monster – sit down and write! No “stupid” question – even “non-accountants” Hard work Enjoy the journey!

Questions/Comments?