Hi all,

Really stupid question that I should know but have completely over analysed!

I was originally taking an interpretivist, qualitative approach, adopting the case study method. However, I have figured out that case studies are too in-depth for the information I am gathering and am now aiming for 30-40 interviews with managers. Was wondering what approach this is as I am not building up a case and only doing interviews?

Hope this makes sense and thanks for your help x

My main problem was that I changed direction with the PhD and in doing so my original supervisor had no knowledge of the new topic and was even too lazy to proof-read. 

Another problem is with new PhD supervisors knowing what's right and wrong. I think that new supervisors are as confused as the students sometimes and won't give in and ask for help because they don't want to loose face.

Also false feedback has been a problem, this might come down to inexperience but I feel sometimes I'm told everything is fine when I know in my heart it is not (and I also have gotten these doubts confirmed through upgrades).

Hope this all helps x

No don't do it!  I wish someone would have said that to me a year ago and told me that it was one of the longest guilt trips you will ever go through... not to mention your confidence crisis now... that will be multiplied by 100 and you will never feel good enough or confident in your ability. I'm one year into mine and I had all these big ideas that I was going to change the world... now I just want 2011 to come as quick as possible...  Sorry for negativity, but no-one told me all this! I really enjoyed my undergrad but feel the leap into PhD is enormous, have no idea now how I even got a 1st!  Not all of it is bad though, flexible time, work to your own agenda, good job prospects at the end but like I say its getting to the end.

Good luck in your decision, I would summarise by saying if its something you really are committed to and passionate about go for it because your drive and love for your topic will spur you on, if not be careful in your decision. Good luck x

When I read posts like these I want to scream too. I think that no matter what PhD students have to put their perspectives in order. I know a guy neglecting everyone in his life because of the PhD, to the point where he may lose his girlfriend. At the end of the day, no job will make you as happy as the people in your life. Do what makes you happy. Do you have to be on campus? Can you do some of it from home to spend more time together? Whatever you do good luck! Don't get too down, Skype is a great invention too.

Hi All,

Was just wanting to gather your thoughts on methodology. I am in the faculty og Business and I am 7months through my 1st year. I have my transfer coming up in June and although I know I am taking a qualitative approach to my research I was wondering where do i start reading on this subject. I have started with the Saunders book but does anyone have any suggestions on what to read and what kind of topics I need to cover for methodology.

Thanks x

I find the only way I can get away from it all is by phisically leaving the house and away from the computer. I go visit people where I know I can't access emails and the likes. Just tell yourself you need the break, and that you deserve it.

x

Hi Scarlett, your uni will also have an emergency fund for the likes of this situation. If you go to your student support office they may be able to give you or lend you the money. Hope you have it sorted already though!

Take care x

How much work do you all put in each week?

How much time do you take off?...

Basically i'm half way through my 1st year, have written my 1st chapter 20,000 words and now want a break! Is this wrong off me? Plus I usually take off a Friday to meet frineds and things! Is everyone going to wite back and sat how lazy I am and how wrong this is lol!

Thanks for the moan x:-)

Hi Eugene, probably not the advice you want to hear but I really think you may need to calm down. Do you ever have friends over for dinner or watching tv? If so then you are doing the same thing. At the end of the day your flatmate pays her rent and can invite who she wants to the house when she wants to. The "extra" bills amounted due to his being there is minimal if recognisable at all.

I do agree that he should not be in the house when your flatmate is not there, but I do beleive if you calm down and ignor the situation your life will be happier.

Sorry to be negative but I have seen a similar situation and I think you may be over-reacting.

Hope everything works out in the end.(up)

Hi all, new to this thread, so give you all an overview. Started in October, have been doing reading, had a bit of a blip in January, changed direction and supervision slightly so technically haven't written any chapters yet. Starting tomorrow and have read other threads saying that everyone writes every day, am I the only person has taken this approach? Need to have 10,000 words completed for the end of April, is it achievable??? Good (and also very frightening) to read everyone elses progress. I also have had confidence shattering times (my writting is crap of late, hoping it will come back to me eventually lol) but hoping that everything will come together and motivation will keep me going, also starting to enjoy it a little more!(up)

Im sitting in my 6th month and have to start my first official chapter which will of course be my lit review. Sorting journals into piles and piles and piles and cant decide which journal goes under which heading, don't even know if i'm going about this right lol! But yes sitting on this forum and internet instead of positively working (how bold)!! I'm eating rocky bars by the way (supposedly they are only 1 1/2 weight watcher points!!!)

Wear a suit, it says you are seriouse and made an effort!

Good luck!(up)

======= Date Modified 26 17 2009 11:17:35 =======
During my degree I was entitled to free dentistry, prescriptions and eyecare. I was wondering is it the same now during PhD?

Sorry a little more information needed Im on a funded Phd £13,000 tax free. So possibly not??

Thanks x