Hi all

I love learning and using different methods to answer RQs (when those methods are justified by the RQ and the data of course). I haven't met any resistance from my sups, but I wanted to get others' views on this. Do you venture out and learn new methods without direct supervision on how to use them? I mean studying out it yourself and then showing it to the sups. My concern is, I suppose, isn't the point in being supervised that you will learn methods from them? I suppose I am wondering am I being wise... or is something going to come back and bite me in the rear end? I learn things very thoroughly, but I suppose you can't beat that hands on support. What do people you do? Stick to the beaten path or venture out?

Tudor

I just want to clarify that I do not mind the situation as it is... I am not criticizing my sups - they have far less time to try out and learn new things I imagine at this stage in their careers. I just wonder if it is the right thing to be doing as an inexperienced researcher. Or maybe it is exactly what I should be doing?

I used methods my supervisors have never used because, as you say, it was the best approach for the research questions and the data. I got training in the methods and managed to find a research network at another uni that I could join, which helped immensely in terms of feeling that I had some input from people experienced in the methods. My supervisors were fine about it but I can imagine this is something that would depend on the relationship with your supervisors and their style.

Thank you Chickpea. I think getting that input from others who are experienced with the methods is my missing link. I would feel more confident with that.

Have a good holiday (if you're taking one for Christmas)!

Thanks - have a great Christmas too!

I'm in a similar boat. No one in my department really knows the methodology I'm using, although my supervisor has a superficial understanding. I'm going to a summer school, two week intensive course, to learn.

Thanks for sharing. Yeah I am also looking for some sort of face-to-face training on my chosen method. It may be that books will suffice, but I'd feel more comfortable having the chance to ask a course leader questions etc.

What methodology is it?