Page 82 - AEI Insights Vol. 7 2021

AEI Insights, Vol 7, Issue 1, 2021

possible through the mentor-mentee system implemented via the ToT programme. Selected
academics from NUOL were trained by a group of trainers from UM in the field of social
science research. The goal was to prepare them to have a certain body of knowledge, present
this effectively, respond to questions and lead activities to reinforce learning. The trained
researchers from NUOL were taught to build their confidence, engage the audience, be able to
develop learning objectives, assess and evaluate the impact of training initiatives and manage
participants with effective techniques- engage different learning styles, create positive learning,
manage classroom challenges and others.

• Challenge 2- Lack of research knowledge and skills

Only a handful of academics and staff in Laos had some knowledge and skills in doing research.
Most of them have not been exposed to research and therefore lack the necessary required
skills.

Counter Measure 2- Our research knowledge and skills training focused on less familiar
research approaches/ techniques. The UM team opted to focus on qualitative research, use of
focus group interviews and analysis of qualitative research. Awareness of ethical
considerations were also highlighted. The ToT Training manual served as the complete guide
on how to conduct research in the social sciences within the ASEAN context, with specific
examples from Malaysia and Lao PDR.
• Challenge 3- Little opportunity to attend research training programmes

Academics or staff in NUOL did not have equal opportunity access to the training. Priority is
given to seasoned or senior academics to attend research training programmes whilst the junior
academics or staff continue with their daily task. It was also highlighted that places to attend
research training programmes are limited (as mentioned in the interview exceprt below):

Counter Measure 3-Time-space considerations for ToT implementation must be given
ample thought. Research training programmes could be conducted after the examination period
and during the university semester break (which means the academics and teaching staff in
Laos have less teaching and grading commitments). Postgraduate students should also be
invited to attend future capacity building seminars and talks that are scheduled at appropriate
hours (eg: not during lecture hours).

• Challenge 4- Perception that research is difficult
The general view that research is seen as difficult by Lao academics arises because they do not
have any or enough experts or individuals who are knowledgeable to supervise them. They also
thought that the faculty/university management did not place much emphasis on doing
research.

Counter Measure 4- The UM team leveraged on mentoring/ scaffolding involving
NUOL lecturers with MA/PhDs by instilling positive attitudes towards research, and their
implications on the understanding of adult learning theories/learning styles in the trainer’s
guidelines in the ToT curriculum. By getting them involved directly with the UM expert
trainers in various aspects of research, it helped to build and shape their confidence and increase
their motivation in doing research.

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