======= Date Modified 04 Aug 2009 13:56:42 =======
Main failing points are:

1) inappropriate research proposal

2) wrong research methodology (produces lack of interest and inconsistent attitude, too much reading online, heavy use of Internet etc)

3) lack of resources (how do you decide what is needed or not?)

4) ill supervision (lack of time, management, ignorant, inexperience. If you proposed research but did not know the past of research questions, if supervisor proposed and you obliged and started research but s/he cannot give you time).

5) financial stress and (no money, no food, no sleep, no research)

6) cultural differences (In research, culture is not only the name of colour, clothes, customs, race, religion, rituals, food or weather but it also shows the attitude towards posing a question and then reflecting accordingly for the proper answer. Some customs, traditions advocate high regards for teacher (i.e., Asia, Africa and Middle East, etc) and believe that teachers know every thing and have command on the subject and to avoid personal ignorance the students simply avoid enquiry. In addition, Language barrier often restrict overseas researcher to ask or reply accordingly. Mostly they simply nod (like a jack in the box) and then suffer as they have to recall every item from supervisor’s meeting. Notes taking during the meeting can improve this problem.



One important thing to remember is that...PhD is a first stage of learning about 'how to do research', it is not like doing an academic degree (i.e. MA/MSc/MBA or BSc or BEng etc) therefore an active mind, focused personality is required. If you want to do research then follow the ‘codes of research’ in your subject. Even after completion of PhD, you are not a true researcher. A new PhD is like a new car driver with green L plate who should avoid driving on Motorway or highway or in the night or rainy weather.One cannot become expert in few more lessons…. Be honest, dedicated and look inside yourself, review your aims of proposed research and your personal knowledge and profession. You will evaluate and discover more and more……

Every PhD is different story so don't take anyone's verdict. like car driving learning example, you need to learn yourself.......the supervisor (like car instructor) can only assist you in code of research practice BUT they do have power (like Instructor have extra breaks to do emergency STOP) and influence to select a suitable examiner to pass you. Supervisors are also examiners for someone's students. So they are out there to pass students....but its a professional attitude, they cannot simply pass or fail students. They need research funds, grants and hence better researchers....

Best of Luck to you all.
MYJamro