Striving for Generalizability: An Introduction to Meta-Analysis

Generalizability—the applicability of research findings to a larger population than those in the study—is critical for researchers who wish to make an impact. One approach to consider is meta-analysis. A subset of systematic literature reviews, meta-analysis combines data from numerous sources. Thus it allows researchers to draw more generalizable conclusions than would be possible from …

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Systematic Literature Reviews: the Who, How, What, Why and When

A systematic literature review is one of many research methods available to academic scholars. It involves identifying and evaluating relevant literature on a selected topic of study. Unlike a common literature review conducted for projects employing other research approaches, a systematic literature review is an independent research method. It is a reproducible and empirically valid …

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Defending Your Thesis at Viva

A thesis defense is a pivotal moment for doctoral candidates. It carries immense significance and is often associated with anxiety and subpar performance. But doctoral candidates must learn how to navigate this critical stage. A successful thesis defense not only signifies academic achievement but also prepares students for the challenges of academia and beyond. In …

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Writing Business Cases With an African Context

Cases are a great tool to use in class to teach difficult and complex supply chain issues. Supply chain problems are not generally solvable by simply applying an algorithm that provides answers to difficult questions or challenges. Most published business cases have an American or European context and ignore the realities of Ghanaian and African …

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Qualitative Data Analysis and Report Writing

Qualitative research allows for exploration of how and why phenomena happen, such as why people behave the way they do, compared to quantitative research, which tells us the size and scope of these behaviors. But the data qualitative research generates is often unstructured. To interpret and derive meaningful insights from the data, qualitative researchers apply …

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Crafting a Pitch for a Trade Journal

You have conducted your research and now comes the hard part—getting published. While publishing in academic journals is critical for advancing knowledge, getting your research published in a trade journal will expand awareness of your work and its results to a wider audience. Trade journals have a different set of requirements and expectations than academic …

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Selecting a Research Design

The goal of research is to answer questions. Good questions, however, are just the beginning. The second step is how to answer them. With the growth in the number and complexity of research designs and methods, it can be challenging to know how to select the best research design.  Whether you are an academic or applied researcher, …

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From the editor’s perspective: Writing for non-academic audiences

Knowing how to write for nonacademic audiences is a key skill for researchers who want to have an impact beyond professional journals. Industry, institutions, policymakers, the general public and other stakeholders need research findings communicated in simple terms to aid them in decision making. Being able to appeal to a larger audience beyond the academic …

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Writing for News Outlets

Knowing how to write for nonacademic audiences is a key skill for researchers who want to have an impact beyond professional journals. Industry, institutions, policymakers, the general public and other stakeholders need research findings communicated in simple terms to aid them in decision making. Being able to appeal to a larger audience beyond the academic …

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Roadmap to Research: Creating Your Protocol

A research protocol is the detailed plan for a study, and it comes with several benefits. First, it forces you to think through the details of your research project in advance. Second, it provides a manual for collaborators and staff training. Third, it can serve as the basis for funding proposals or institutional review board …