Bridging Ideas: Research Workshop Series (11)：Advancing Your Research Proposal: Identifying and Articulating Strategic Research Gaps
On 28 January 2026, the Institute of International Education successfully conducted a workshop entitled “Advancing Your Research Proposal: Identifying and Articulating Strategic Research Gaps,” delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Loo Yew Liang. The workshop formed part of the ongoing academic initiative, “Bridging Ideas: Research Workshop Series,” jointly organized by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, the Graduate School, and the Institute of International Education of New Era University College.
Designed to give newly enrolled postgraduate students a strong and structured start to their academic journey, the workshop aimed to build confidence, clarity, and strategic direction in research planning. It specifically served postgraduate candidates from Chinese Studies, Education, Southeast Asian Studies, Business Studies, and Art, Design, and Creative Media. The central objective was to equip participants with the essential competencies required to develop a persuasive and well-structured research proposal.
During the session, Dr. Loo highlighted the importance of clearly defining research problem statements, formulating precise research objectives, and providing sound justification for methodological choices in ways that align with reviewers’ expectations. He further clarified institutional evaluation standards by outlining common assessment criteria and presenting examples of successful proposals, thereby translating abstract guidelines into practical, actionable checkpoints for students.
Beyond technical proposal development, the workshop also emphasized the cultivation of critical thinking skills, confidence building, and effective presentation strategies for proposal defence sessions. With the participation of 35 postgraduate students, the workshop was warmly received and concluded with attendees’ preparation with the equipment of tools, frameworks, and mindset needed to meet academic standards and progress successfully in their PhD journey.
