With an aim to help research students to improve their essential generic skills, the Graduate School is developing a virtual research training hub. Key to this brand-new platform is self-paced e-learning. While lecture videos are combined with a wide range of interactive content, a mode of asynchronous learning and teaching is adopted to provide flexibility for both educators and learners. The modules are featured with the following elements:

• Interactive thinking exercises and quizzes
• Pre-recorded videos
• Virtual discussion boards
• Links to external e-resources

There are two modules for research students to enhance their generic skills through self-paced e-learning so far.

Module 1:

Conceptualizing Research (Professor Paul Stapleton)

Abstracts of the Module

• Learn some general and specific ideas related to conceptualizing research
• Realize why research is important
• Understand some approaches to research that could help you avoid making cognitive errors and biases

Module 2:

The PhD Student/Candidate – Supervisor Relationship (Professor Joe Graffam, Deakin University, Australia)

Abstracts of the Module

Part 1 : Supervision Theory

1.  The purpose and nature of PhD candidature
2. A Multi-faceted and dyanmic relationship
3. Candidature planning and management

Part 2: Supervision Practice

1.  A supervision 'relationship management' style
2. Health and wellbeing maintenance
3. Practical aspects of the relationship

Module 3:

Reserach Inspiration (Professor CHENG Yin Cheong, The Education University of Hong Kong)

Abstracts of the Module

In this module, Prof Cheng shares

• His personal journey in research in the past four decades
• Self reflection on the academic pursuits
• Hopefully, some inspirations to develop a creative mind in research

Module 4:

Voice, Textual Presence & Pleasure + Tackling Research Writing with Postgraduate Students (Dr Susan Carter, University of Auckland)

Abstract of the module

Part 1: Voice Textual Presence & Pleasure

• Consider how to develop your textual voice
• Consider how to enjoy writing more by working collegially with others
• Improve your relationship with research writing activity

Part 2: Tackling Research Writing with Postgraduate Students

• Think about controlling the mechanics of language
• Develop your artisanal skill as a writer who revises wisely
• Gain confidence