1. Research Methodologies

Instructor(s): Dr Magdeline Ng Tao Tao, Mr Richard Ho Cheng Yong

REx Fellows will learn about the various types of methodologies available such as qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods in research, how to select a suitable method to conduct research and how to evaluate the credibility of a research work. REx Fellows will also be enhancing their research skills when learning about the different types of databases available, how to retrieve key literature articles from these databases, what are the latest research tools and how to use them for their research. 

•       Ideate – To define or scope ideas to show novelty or identify gaps in research (by using effective search techniques)

•       Search – To adapt various search strategies using different sources

•       Measure and Enhance – To understand the basics of Scholarly Communication: publishing matters, research impact and research data management

•       Overview of Research Methods in HASS or STEM

2. Ethics in Research

Instructor(s): Dr Rafi Rashid, Miss Nur Hanisah Binte Hassim

This will be a two-part workshop conducted over the course of one or two weeks. The first part of the workshop will introduce REx Fellows to important ethical considerations when conducting research. Core topics of research ethics and integrity applicable to all disciplines will be covered and discussed in class. 

The second part of the workshop will cover case studies where students will apply concepts learnt in the first part of the workshop, identify the ethical problem for each case and discuss with their peers and instructors of appropriate ways to approach the problem. 

By the end of this 2-part workshop, students should be able to:

•       Describe the ethical principles of research and identify codes and policies for research ethics

•       Apply various research principles so as to articulate an ethically acceptable solution in various situations

•       Recognize that reasoned judgment is valuable when making difficult decisions

•       Affirm the importance of adhering to ethical norms in research

•       Demonstrate an awareness of unethical research practices (e.g. through historical case studies)

3. Research Communications

Instructor(s): Dr Lee Ming Cherk, Ms Brenda Yuen Pui Lam

In this two-hour interactive workshop, REx Fellows will be introduced to the practice of communicating research findings in semi-formal written texts, such as news articles and blogposts, to non-specialist readers in an effective and engaging manner.

 By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

1.              identify the purpose, audience, and content suited for formal and semi-formal types of written communication; and

2.              use language and style that are appropriate to the semi-formal type of written communication. 

The workshop is conducted through mini-lectures, critical evaluation of exemplars, and participants’ writing practice in explaining their own research findings for non-specialist readers.  Before the workshops, participants are expected to write and submit a short academic text (of no more than 150 words) about their own research. During the workshop, they will learn how to turn their submission into a piece of semi-formal written communication.

4.  Careers in Research

Instructor(s): Dr Benjamin Tan, Dr Cheah Yan Ling

This two-hour workshop will be conducted by career advisors from Centre of Future Ready Graduates (CFG). REx Fellows will get insights as to what constitutes research and how to kickstart a career in research. Instructors will share their own journey from graduate school to early careers post-PhD, and insights will be shed on differences between academia, industry and entrepreneurship, important core skills and attributes needed as well as employment opportunities for each. Tips will be shared on how to gain relevant research exposure via internships or undergraduate research experience such as UROP or FYP. REx Fellows will get to do some hands-on experiences to identify their interests and to explore potential career paths. 

In this workshop, students will: 

•       Explore the options and career pathways in research and innovation, including academia, industry and entrepreneurship.

•       Learn how to prepare for a career in the area of research and innovation Gain insights into Singapore’s research and innovation landscape.

•       Reflect on their potential career paths in research and innovation.

5.  Data Storytelling Workshop

Instructor(s): Kontinentalist Pte Ltd

This workshop is designed for students who want to develop their skills in using data visualisations and narrative structures to tell their stories. It will cover techniques for effective data visualisation (e.g. chart hygiene and effective use of colours), storytelling tips and tricks, and how to understand your audience.

a) Storytelling and persuasion:

•       The power and importance of storytelling 

•       The role of the data storyteller 

•       Understanding your audience

b) What are the essentials for a good storytelling:

•       How to handle and curate your data 

•       Understanding the types of data stories

•       Storyboarding and story structures

6.  Artificial Intelligence in Research 

Instructor(s): A/P Tan Wee Kek, Dr Lek Hsiang Hui

Artificial Intelligence (AI), in particular generative AI tools, will transform the way students learn and conduct research. This two-hour workshop exposes students to various opportunities to apply AI tools in research and cautions against potential pitfalls. Students will be imparted with knowledge and skills to leverage on AI tools at each stage of the research process, namely:

•  Use of AI tools in formulating and designing research problem;

•  Use of AI tools in summarising research papers and conducting literature reviews;

•  Use of AI tools in data collection and analysis; and

•  Use of AI tools as an aid in writing research report.

•  Micro-lectures will be supplemented with various hands-on activities.

7.        Storytelling for Impactful Communication

Instructor(s): Ms Susan Lee

If you agree that complex concepts can be communicated with simplicity, this workshop is for you. In the hands-on session, you will learn to create suitable story arcs and use rhetorical strategies to unpack complex ideas into relatable and useful information. 

To craft compelling stories, we will first identify the target audience and develop authentic audience personas for the stories. We will analyse the functions of figurative language (e.g. imagery, analogy, metaphor, similes) for explaining concepts and scenarios in the context of your story. You may bring an example from your research to apply rhetorical strategies and develop your story.

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to

a       Analyse the target audience of your research pitch.

b      Apply selected rhetorical strategies to simplify explanations of a concept or scenario for the target audience.

c       Craft a story that integrates the use of rhetorical strategies to communicate effectively with the target audience.

8.     Sharing Your Research: Making the Pitch work for you. 

Instructor(s): Dr Jason Banta

Sharing your ideas should be a logical part of your own research plan! This workshop will help you develop a modular approach to sharing your ideas. By focusing on essential elements of good research, such as a rational for your work, an objective statement of your research goals, and an understanding of the implications of your ideas, we will develop a set of moves that you can use to describe your work in 3,5, or 8 minutes. 

In this workshop, you will: 

1)    Identify the essential elements of your research as sca old for sharing ideas. 

2)    Work on isolating the most impactful parts of your research to leave an impression on your audience.

3)    Practice sharing technical expertise with non-specialist audiences. 

4)    Leveraging storytelling to create a memorable impression on your audience. 

9.     Writing a Research Report

Instructor: Miss Nur Hanisah Binte Hassim

In this workshop, students will be introduced to the format and writing styles of a scientific report. 

Learning Outcomes

a.     To be familiar with the typical structure of a scientific report (i.e. IMRAD) and writing styles for each section 

b.     Effective ways to use figures and tables to enhance readability of report 

c.     Familiar with different citation styles, including in-text citations and reference list 

10.  Preparing a Research Portfolio

Instructor: Miss Nur Hanisah Binte Hassim

In this workshop, REx Fellows will understand the importance of developing robust research portfolios for academia and industry. The workshop will go through key components of research portfolios and provide tips on how to go about structuring one to suit their needs.  Lastly, some examples of research portfolio management and analysis will be provided. 

11.  How to: Oral Presentation for Research

Instructor: Miss Nur Hanisah Binte Hassim

This workshop provides students with the essential skills to effectively deliver oral presentations of their research. Through practical exercises and guided instruction, participants will learn how to plan, organise, and present their research findings clearly and confidently. Topics include structuring content, designing visual aids, speaking techniques and audience engagement. By the end of the course, students will be able to communicate their research in a professional and compelling way suitable for academic and professional settings.