There have been lots of challenges faced by researchers during this pandemic. One of which is the modality of collecting data as face-to-face activities have become limited. Hence, the use of remote technologies in data collection becomes an alternative. This was the focus of the 4th episode of the webinar series of the project Pagbangon held last March 19. The event was a joint project of Pagkalinga, a movement initiated by a group of UPLB graduate students sharing a common cause to reach out and give hope to communities, and Philarm (Philippine Association of Research Managers, Inc.).
Dr. Sherry B. Marasigan, assistant professor at the Agricultural Systems Institute (ASI) under CAFS, UPLB shared and discussed an overview of the basic approaches in grounded theory research. In her talk, she highlighted the key characteristics and the basic steps in conducting a grounded theory research. She shared that grounded theory provides a better explanation than a theory borrowed “off the shelf,” because it fits the situation, works in practice, and is sensitive to individuals in a setting since it is grounded in the data. Another speaker was Dr. Josefina T. Dizon, professor at the College of Public Affairs and Development (CPAf), UPLB. She delivered a talk focused on the challenges and alternatives in conducting social research with the use of remote technologies. Both speakers have shared their piece in inspiring participants who were mostly researchers and graduate students working on their respective researches and thesis/dissertation.
Despite the crisis, taking part in such an initiative highlighted not only the capacity and expertise of UPLB faculty but also the genuine heart to serve as the proceeds of the said activity will be shared to a graduate student needing immediate medical attention. (MCDCaceres)