Redefining Doctoral Education: The D.Res Model Focused on Publication Impact

Jude Nwabuokei

Jude Nwabuokei

Associate Editor
Introduction​

The academic landscape is undergoing a profound transformation with this proposal of a groundbreaking doctoral programme model: the Doctor of Research (D.Res) Unlike traditional Ph.D (Doctor of Philosophy). programs, which focus primarily on completing a single dissertation, the D.Res framework prioritizes the impact of scholarly publications. This shift aims to align doctoral training more closely with the evolving needs of academia and industry, producing researchers who excel not only in their fields but also in effectively disseminating their findings (Chumwichan et al, 2023)

Key Concepts and Findings​
Publication Quality

The D.Res programme represents a departure from conventional doctoral training by placing significant emphasis on publishing in high-impact journals (Horta & Santos, 2016) This focus ensures that candidates engage with cutting-edge research and contribute meaningfully to their fields. By adhering to rigorous research practices and enhancing the visibility of their work, candidates can significantly impact their respective disciplines.

Interdisciplinary Research Facilitation

One of the key strengths of the D.Res program is its facilitation of interdisciplinary research. By allowing candidates to publish across various journals and disciplines, the programme promotes collaboration and innovation (Kezar, 2005) This approach encourages candidates to tackle complex research questions that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, leading to the integration of diverse perspectives and the generation of novel insights.

Real-world Impact

A distinguishing feature of the D.Res model is its emphasis on research with tangible societal, technological, or scientific impacts (Hill, 2016) By prioritizing real-world relevance, the programme ensures that doctoral research addresses pressing societal needs and challenges. This focus not only enhances the practical applicability of academic work but also fosters a sense of purpose and fulfilment among candidates.

Methodology​

The evaluation of the D.Res programme's effectiveness employed a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative analysis of publication outputs, including citation counts and journal impact factors, provided insights into the scholarly impact of candidates' work. Additionally, qualitative interviews with programme participants, faculty members, and industry stakeholders offered valuable perspectives on the programme's value and challenges (Turner et al, 2017) This comprehensive methodology enabled a nuanced understanding of the programme's outcomes and its implications for candidates' research trajectories and career prospects.

Discussion and Implications​

The D.Res model heralds a significant evolution in doctoral education, with far-reaching implications for academia, industry, and policy. By challenging traditional metrics of doctoral success and prioritizing scholarly impact, the program encourages a more nuanced evaluation of research contributions. This emphasis on publication and real-world impact equips graduates with the skills necessary for roles that demand advanced research abilities and effective communication. Moreover, the D.Res model underscores the imperative for doctoral programs to adapt to the changing landscape of research and innovation.

Despite its benefits, the D.Res model raises concerns regarding accessibility and equity, particularly regarding the pressure to publish in high-impact journals. Future research should explore strategies to support candidates from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, ensuring that the programme promotes inclusivity and fairness. Additionally, it is essential to address issues related to citation politics and unethical practices aimed at inflating publication metrics.


Conclusion​

The Doctor of Research (D.Res) program represents a visionary approach to doctoral education, emphasizing the significance of publication impact and interdisciplinary research. By redefining the criteria for doctoral success, the D.Res model has the potential to cultivate a new generation of researchers capable of addressing complex global challenges. As the model continues to evolve, its focus on quality publications and real-world impact stands to enhance the value and relevance of doctoral research, preparing candidates for a dynamic and interconnected world.


FAQs​
Is the D.Res programmes suitable for all academic disciplines?
While the D.Res model encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, its suitability may vary across academic disciplines. Some fields may place greater emphasis on traditional doctoral methodologies, while others may benefit more from the D.Res framework.
How does the D.Res programme address concerns about publication pressure?
The D.Res program acknowledges the importance of quality over quantity in publications. While candidates are encouraged to publish in high-impact journals, the program also values the depth and rigor of research over sheer publication output.
What support systems are in place for D.Res candidates?
D.Res programmes typically offer robust support systems, including mentorship opportunities, research funding, and access to academic resources. These resources help candidates navigate the challenges of doctoral research and publication effectively.
How does the D.Res model impact traditional Ph.D. programmes?
The D.Res model presents a complementary approach rather than a direct replacement for traditional Ph.D. programmes. While both models aim to produce high-quality researchers, they differ in their emphasis on publication impact and interdisciplinary collaboration.
What are the potential drawbacks of the D.Res model?
Some critics argue that the emphasis on publication impact may inadvertently prioritize quantity over quality and perpetuate inequities in academia. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the pressure to publish in high-impact journals and its implications for early-career researchers.

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How to cite this proposal:
Nwabuokei, J. (2024). Doctor of Research (D.Res) - A novel proposal to develop an additional doctoral educational framework. Atomic Academia Ltd. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10696658
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References

Chumwichan, S., Wongwanich, S., & Piromsombat, C. (2023). Effect of Research Training Environment on Doctoral Students' Research Intentions. ABAC Journal. https://doi.org/10.59865/abacj.2023.45

Hill, S. (2016). Assessing (for) impact: future assessment of the societal impact of research. Palgrave Communications, 2. https://doi.org/10.1057/palcomms.2016.73

Horta, H., & Santos, J. (2016). The Impact of Publishing During PhD Studies on Career Research Publication, Visibility, and Collaborations. Research in Higher Education, 57, 28-50. https://doi.org/10.1007/S11162-015-9380-0

Kezar, A. (2005). Redesigning for Collaboration within Higher Education Institutions: An Exploration into the Developmental Process. Research in Higher Education, 46, 831-860. https://doi.org/10.1007/S11162-004-6227-5

Turner, S., Cardinal, L., & Burton, R. (2017). Research Design for Mixed Methods. Organizational Research Methods, 20, 243 - 267. https://doi.org/10.1177/1094428115610808
 
It would all depend on the quality of the research. I do understand that sometimes getting published may be challenging for certain kinds of people. So, rather than demote them to being awarded an M.Res or MPhil, I would recommend that if the research project has potential, and meets other requirements for a PhD, the researcher should be awarded accordingly.
 
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Jude Nwabuokei said:
It would all depend on the quality of the research. I do understand that sometimes getting published may be challenging for certain kinds of people. So, rather than demote them to being awarded an M.Res or MPhil, I would recommend that if the research project has potential, and meets other requirements for a PhD, the researcher should be awarded accordingly.
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Absolutely, it's crucial to consider the quality and potential impact of the research conducted by doctoral candidates. While publication success is a significant aspect of the D.Res model, other factors such as research rigour, innovation, and contribution to the field should also be taken into account when determining the awarding of the doctoral degree.

I agree with the principle of recognising and valuing diverse research outputs and outcomes can help ensure that deserving candidates are appropriately acknowledged for their scholarly contributions. However it would be down to the accrediting authority to ensure their standards are met for the award ultimately. I was proposing an option for candidates who do not meet the standard required, unless you're thinking it would be a pass/fail.
 
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