Prof Athungo Ovung, Department of Sociology, NU and Dr Sandeep Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, NU during the presentation hour by Dr R Bendangtemjen, Principal of ZGC. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Zunheboto | August 8
A one-day national level workshop on research methodology under the theme “Building Research Excellence: Strengthening Methodological Skills for Quality Academic Output” was held at the College Auditorium of Zunheboto Government College (ZGC) on August 8.
The event was organised by the Research Committee in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), ZGC, and sponsored by the Directorate of Higher Education (SLQAC), Government of Nagaland.
Dr Sandeep Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, Nagaland University, highlighted key aspects of research such as identifying the research problem, conducting a literature review, and the Data processing, and analysis.
Emphasising the importance of clearly identifying a research problem, Dr Gupta noted, “Some research topics may sound attractive at first, but when one begins the investigation, they often lead to dead ends.”
He added that understanding the problem is the first step toward solving it, and pointed out the need for more research on contemporary issues such as the impact of social media, in contrast to more commonly explored areas like unemployment and divorce.
Prof Athungo Ovung, also from the Department of Sociology, Nagaland University, delivered a session on research design and report writing. He described research design as a structured framework or plan essential for conducting any research study. Drawing parallels to architectural planning in schools, churches, and office buildings, he explained that just like blueprints help architects, a good research design guides researchers in collecting and analyzing data systematically, while minimizing bias.
He stressed the importance of research design in providing clarity, focus, and increasing the reliability of findings, which in turn helps inform evidence-based decision-making. Prof. Ovung also elaborated on hypothesis formulation, sampling methods including probability and non-probability sampling and the ethical considerations required in social science research.
“Ethical concerns are vital when researching human subjects. Social sciences must uphold social integrity and ensure that research is both acceptable and responsible,” he added.
Professor Sanjay K Roy, Retired Professor, Department of Sociology North Bengal University, Siliguri, joined the session virtually and had an interactive session in the workshop highlighting the Data Collection Method.
The workshop was chaired by Isatoli Aye and Kileto I Chishi. Dr R. Bendangtemjen, Principal of ZGC, delivered the welcome address. The workshop concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, followed by a valedictory address delivered by Everkali W. Achumi, Convenor of the Organising Committee.
