Reflections on Faculty Development Program (FDP) on Research and Writing with AI Assistance

This blog reflects on the One-Week Free Online Faculty Development Program (FDP) on Research and Writing with AI Assistance organized by the Institute of Public Enterprise (IPE), Hyderabad – India’s Premier Business School.

In this blog, I share my key takeaways and insights from the five-day FDP.

Day-1 Idea Generation and Sourcing Literature

Resource person: Dr. Rama Krishna Yelamanchili

In this session, the resource person provided a hands-on demonstration of various AI tools for research and literature review. He practically showcased how these tools can be used to generate research ideas, build literature maps, and manage references. Additionally, he introduced ChatGPT-based tools like Innovative Research Idea Generator, Paper Wizard, Brain Wave, and EduInnovate, which assist in brainstorming research topics and academic writing.

Essential Elements of a Research Paper

• Novel Topic: Choose a unique and relevant research topic.
• Strong Theoretical Framework: Establish a solid foundation with existing theories.
• Extensive Literature Review: Conduct a thorough review to understand research gaps.
• Meticulous Methodology: Ensure precise and well-structured research methods.
• In-depth Analysis: Provide comprehensive and critical data interpretation.
• Robust Results: Present well-supported and credible findings.

Convincing Conclusion: Summarize key insights effectively.

• How to Pick a Research Topic
• Observe real-world events and trends.
• Draw inspiration from your teaching subjects.
• Engage in discussions with peers.
• Explore research journals in your field.
• Conduct an extensive literature review.

AI Tools for Research and Literature Review

Idea Generation:

• PaperGuide.ai
• Editpad
• AppyPie

Literature Mapping & Connections:

• Citrus Search
• ResearchRabbit
• Inciteful
• Litmaps
• Connected Papers

Reference Management:

• Hypothesis Maker
• Zotero
• Bibliography (Zbib)

This session has significantly enhanced my understanding of AI-assisted research and writing. The practical exposure to these tools will streamline my research process, improve idea generation, and enhance the depth and efficiency of my literature review and academic writing.

Day-2 Literature Review with AI Assistance

Resource person: Dr. Kalyani

Conceptual Base of Literature Review

• A literature review is not just a summary but a critical analysis of existing research.
• It connects past studies with your research objectives, identifying trends and gaps.
• A strong conceptual foundation ensures a well-structured and meaningful review.

How to Write a Literature Review

• Begin with a clear objective and research question.
• Identify relevant sources and critically analyze them.
• Organize the review systematically using a structured approach.

Approaches to Writing a Literature Review

• Chronological Approach – Organizes studies based on publication years.
• Reverse Chronological Approach – Begins with the latest research and moves backward.
• Thematic Approach – Groups studies by themes or topics.
• Methodological Approach – Categorizes research based on methods used.
• Conceptual Framework Approach – Focuses on theoretical concepts and models.

Structure of a Literature Review

• Introduction: Defines the research scope, importance, and key themes.
• Body: Uses various approaches (thematic, chronological, etc.) to analyze research.
• Conclusion: Identifies research gaps and highlights future research directions.
• Use of AI in Literature Review AI tools assist in searching, summarizing, and structuring research papers.
• Despite AI’s help, reading a few key papers thoroughly is crucial for understanding theories.
• Demonstrated various AI tools for literature review (as listed in the session).
• New Tool: Lateral.ai – Helps organize and create an LR table for better structuring.

SMART Framework for Literature Review

S – Search: Identify relevant literature using databases and AI tools.

M – Map: Organize and categorize studies based on themes and approaches.

A – Analyze: Critically evaluate research findings, methodologies, and arguments.

R – Refine: Identify gaps, inconsistencies, and missing links.

T – Transform & Rewrite: Synthesize information to align with your research objectives.

Day-3 Research Design with AI tools

Resource person: Dr. Rama Krishna Yelamanchili

The session covered different types of research designs and methods, emphasizing their role in structuring a study. It introduced Mono-method (using a single approach) and Mixed-method research (combining qualitative and quantitative approaches). The book recommended for Mixed-method research was Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by John W. Creswell.

A key takeaway was that methodology is the heart of research, as it ensures rigor and validity in findings. The session also highlighted the use of AI tools like ChatGPT to generate research paper titles and refine research approaches. 

Some AI tools suggested for research support include: 

Prompt Diary – For tracking research-related AI prompts.

CPT Explore - Mentor for Research – A guided research assistant.

Design Academic Guide – For structuring research work.

Research Method Advisor – Providing insights into research methodologies.

Research and Methodology Assistant – Offering assistance in refining research techniques.

Day-4 Data Interpretation and Analysis with AI Tools

Resource person: Dr. Rama Krishna Yelamanchili

1. Scales of Measurement

• Understanding data begins with knowing its measurement scale:Nominal: Categorical data without order (e.g., Gender, Colors).
• Ordinal: Ordered categories but without equal differences (e.g., Rankings, Satisfaction Levels).
• Interval: Numeric data with equal differences but no true zero (e.g., Temperature in Celsius).
• Ratio: Numeric data with a true zero, allowing meaningful ratios (e.g., Weight, Height).

2. Using Statskingdom for Descriptive Analysis Upload data to Statskingdom.com to perform descriptive analysis (mean, median, standard deviation, frequency distribution).

Obtain summary statistics to understand central tendencies and variability.

3. GPT for Data Refinement & InterpretationRevise the output from Statskingdom and re-upload structured data to GPT for further analysis and interpretation.

Utilize GPT-Data Analysis and Report AI to generate insights, trends, and reports.

Explore Advanced Data Analysis in GPT for deeper statistical modeling, correlation, and forecasting.

4. Key TakeawaysStatskingdom helps with fundamental descriptive statistics.

GPT tools enhance interpretation and provide a refined, structured data-driven narrative.

Advanced Data Analysis in GPT assists with deeper insights, trend recognition, and comprehensive reporting.

Day- 5 Finalizing the manuscript with AI Assistance

Resource person: Dr. Swati Mathur

Choosing the Right Journal

• Select a target journal based on Q1-Q4 or ABCD ranking.
• Ensure citations come from journals of the same level for credibility.

Discussion & Conclusion Section

AI can assist with idea formation, but direct AI-generated content should not be used.

The session covered structure, content, and best practices for writing a strong discussion.

AI Tools Explored

ChatGPT, Jenni.ai for idea generation.

Writefull.com (Word plugin) for paraphrasing AI-generated text.

Thrix.ai to check references (free once a day).

Manuscript Proofreading & Readability

Sentence-by-sentence proofreading is essential.

Introduction to Flesch–Kincaid readability tests for clarity improvement.

AI-assisted abstract writing based on the discussion and conclusion section.

Writing Style Guidelines

Emphasis on passive voice usage in academic writing.

Prompt directory creation for AI-driven writing support.

AI in Literature Review: Enhancing Research Efficiency and Accuracy from Jheel Barad

Thank you for reading. I hope my reflection was helpful to you as well.

Communication Skills - 2

Mastering Effective Communication Skills: 

The Power of LSRW

Communication is an essential life skill that influences every aspect of our personal and professional lives. Whether it’s expressing an idea, understanding a conversation, writing an email, or reading a document, strong communication skills help us connect, collaborate, and succeed.

A structured approach to communication revolves around four fundamental skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing (LSRW). Developing these skills ensures clarity, confidence, and efficiency in conveying and interpreting messages.

1. Listening: The Art of Understanding

Listening is often mistaken for simply hearing sounds, but true listening requires attention, interpretation, and response. It is an active process that helps us absorb information, understand perspectives, and build meaningful connections.

Why is Listening Important?

• It strengthens relationships by showing empathy and respect.
• It helps in learning new ideas and gaining insights.
• It prevents misunderstandings and miscommunication.

Common Challenges in Listening

• Distractions & Noise: Background sounds, notifications, or even our own wandering thoughts can disrupt our focus.
• Preconceived Notions: When we assume we already know what the other person is going to say, we stop listening actively.
• Emotional State: Stress, anger, or anxiety can block our ability to absorb information effectively.

How to Improve Listening?

• Practice active listening by maintaining eye contact and responding appropriately.
• Avoid interrupting and focus on understanding before reacting.
• Minimize distractions, such as putting away your phone or turning off background noise.

2. Speaking: Expressing with Clarity and Confidence

Speaking effectively is not just about using the right words; it's about how you present them. Whether in a casual conversation, a business meeting, or a public speech, confident and clear communication leaves a lasting impact.

What Makes a Good Speaker?

• Clarity: Speak in a way that is easy to understand.
• Confidence: Even if you're nervous, maintaining good posture and steady speech can help.
• Engagement: A great speaker knows how to capture and maintain attention.

Common Barriers to Speaking

• Fear of Judgment: Many people hesitate to speak up due to the fear of being criticized.
• Language Struggles: Vocabulary limitations or difficulty with pronunciation can make speaking challenging.
• Lack of Structure: Speaking without organizing thoughts can lead to confusion.
• Ways to Improve Speaking Skills
• Practice Regularly: Engage in conversations, participate in discussions, and give small speeches to build confidence.
• Work on Pronunciation & Tone: Record yourself speaking and identify areas for improvement.
• Use Visual Aids: When speaking in presentations, using images or slides can help clarify your message.

3. Reading: Unlocking Knowledge Through Text

Reading is more than just recognizing words on a page; it involves comprehension, critical thinking, and analysis. Whether you’re reading for pleasure, study, or work, the ability to extract useful information is a crucial skill.

Why is Reading Essential?

• It expands knowledge and vocabulary.
• It enhances focus and concentration.
• It improves comprehension and analytical thinking.

Common Reading Challenges

• Lack of Interest: Some people struggle to focus because they find reading boring.
• Complex Language: Unfamiliar words or long, complicated sentences can slow comprehension.
• Poor Retention: Reading without understanding or remembering what was read makes it ineffective.
• Tips to Improve Reading Skills
• Read with Purpose: Identify why you’re reading—whether it’s for learning, entertainment, or research.
• Break It Down: If a text seems complex, read in sections and summarize key points.
• Take Notes: Highlight important points to retain information better.

4. Writing: The Power of Written Expression

Writing is one of the most effective ways to communicate ideas, thoughts, and information. From emails to essays, business reports to creative storytelling, writing is an essential skill in both personal and professional life.

Why is Writing Important?

• It helps structure and clarify thoughts.
• It allows for clear, permanent communication.
• It enhances creativity and critical thinking.

Common Writing Barriers

• Lack of Clarity: Unstructured writing can make ideas confusing.
• Grammar & Spelling Errors: These mistakes can affect readability and professionalism.
• Fear of Writing: Some people feel nervous about expressing themselves in written form.

How to Improve Writing Skills

• Practice Daily: Write short paragraphs, journal entries, or even social media posts to build confidence.
• Expand Your Vocabulary: Read more to learn new words and sentence structures.
• Seek Feedback: Ask someone to review your writing and provide constructive criticism.

Conclusion

Effective communication is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and refined. By focusing on LSRW skills—Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing—you can enhance your ability to express yourself clearly and understand others better.

Improving communication isn’t just about speaking fluently or writing perfectly—it’s about building connections, sharing ideas, and creating meaningful interactions. Keep practicing, stay open to learning, and soon, you’ll master the art of communication!