Students of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies (MPRK) program at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada are currently learning to draft research proposals that will eventually become their thesis papers. This activity is part of the Social Research Methods course. To produce high-quality proposals, input from various parties is essential.
On Thursday, June 6th, 2024, MPRK at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada invited two professors, Sung Yong Lee from Soka University in Japan and Hyuk Min Kang from Ewha Womans University in South Korea, to review the students’ proposal plans. The event lasted for two hours, during which nine MPRK students from the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada presented their research plans in English for three minutes, following the Three Minutes Thesis format.
The reviewers were impressed with the MPRK students’ research plans. They even suggested that the research results be published as a special issue in a peace studies journal. SungYong Lee emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in research, while HyukMin Kang highlighted the practical value of the proposed research, especially in the context of resolving conflicts in various parts of the world.
Besides receiving academic feedback, this activity also provided students with the opportunity to practice presenting their research plans with more confidence, especially in English. This was a valuable experience that could enhance their communication skills in international forums. Students also had the chance to discuss directly with guest professors about the challenges they might face in their research and how to overcome them. This activity encouraged students to be more critical and creative in formulating their research plans. They were encouraged to consider various perspectives and approaches in their research. This is crucial to ensure that their research not only has academic value but also practical relevance in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
This activity not only provided valuable insights for students in drafting better thesis proposals but also enhanced their ability to present research ideas concisely and clearly. Students hope that similar activities can be held again in the future to continually improve the quality of their research. The support and feedback from international experts is expected MPRK UGM students to able to produce high-quality research that significantly contributes to the field of peace studies and conflict resolution.
Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Writer: Dody Wibowo Editor: Arfikah Istari