Challenges Faced by Students in Writing Thesis: An Investigation from Research Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges faced by research students during thesis writing. Qualitative research methodology was adopted to conduct this study. Research questions were developed to achieve the research objectives. The population of the study was comprised of research students working on their thesis or recently passed out. Purposive sampling technique was adopted. The research tool of the study was interview guide. Interviews were conducted with a sample of 40 research students studying in Library and Information Science/Information Management Departments in public and private sector universities of Punjab province. Thematic approach was adopted to analyze the interview data. The results showed that it is challenging for research students to select the topic for research, develop focus on study, acquiring knowledge of information sources, developing online searching skills, developing data analysis skills and time management skills. They also faced problems in data collection and using inferential statistics. They also faced problem in interpreting data. They indicated the need for trainings on how to analyze and interpret data, using SPSS software, developing questionnaire/interview guide, citation management and literature searching skills. The results of the study are useful for research supervisors and newly research students to focus on identified areas and obtain essential research skills useful during thesis writing.