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Dr. Joyline Makani: Asking the Right Question

“Almost all research endeavors, no matter how complicated, can be reduced to a single question.”

Dr. Joyline Makani

Dr Joyline Makani

Dr Joyline Makani

Claude Lévi-Strauss once declared that, “The scientist is not a person who gives the right answers, he’s one who asks the right questions.” Dr. Joyline Makani agrees unreservedly and elaborates on this idea in our next post in the series on the importance of research.

Successful research outcomes start with asking the right questions, because your questions must be answerable. To be able to effectively and successfully gather, follow, and interrogate the evidence you need to ask both factual and interpretive questions (ask: Who? What? When? Where? How?).

As Dr. Martine Durier-Copp noted, research is best accomplished by turning an issue into a question, with the intent of the research being to answer the question. Almost all research endeavors, no matter how complicated, can be reduced to a single question. The key is being clear on the question because it will make it easier for you to formulate a research strategy for finding the best information about this question. Basically, first ask what is the issue, what are you interested in or what are you curious about? You then take the thing you are interested in and turn it into a question.

Finding the answer will take you on a journey of discovery.  We engage within an interconnected global world where information gathers at an exponential rate. You can find the answers by searching a variety of information sources: books, magazines, journals, websites, electronic databases.

But first, think about what kinds of information you need.  Ask yourself:  do you need competitor information, financial markets data, news/press releases, definitions, corporate reports, statistics, academic/scholarly articles, or government documents? Once you know the kinds of information you need, you can make a list of all the possible sources in which you think you can find that information.

While research may seem time-consuming, never fear.  Librarians are your “short-cut” to success. To save valuable time I recommend asking a librarian. Expert librarians are very helpful at quickly identifying which kinds of sources can be used to find certain types of information.

A Place to Dialogue @ Killam Memorial Library

A Place to Dialogue @ Killam Memorial Library

Julia Yan on Research – A Graduate’s Response

 

Julia Yan MBA(FS) 2010, Vice President Regional Sales at TSX Trust & Listings Development, TMX Group

Julia Yan MBA(FS) 2010, Vice President Regional Sales at TSX Trust & Listings Development, TMX Group

“My MBA journey added a strategic dynamic to my research capabilities. My approach to integrating and sharing knowledge evolved over the course of my studies.  Academic efforts honed and defined my research competency, giving me greater freedom to objectively explore and assess ideas and constructs.”

Julia Yan MBA(FS) Class of 2010

Julia Yan MBA(FS) 2010, Vice President Regional Sales at TSX Trust & Listings Development, TMX Group, is a passionate supporter of lifelong learning. Dr. Joyline Makani’s post on “Research Takes Courage” reflected Julia’s personal experience both as a student and a career professional.

“I agree with Joyline unequivocally,” Julia noted in a recent virtual interview. “It takes courage because we challenge ourselves to look beyond the obvious. Its about analyzing arguments utilizing inductive or deductive reasoning, judging assumptions, solving problems and formulating new ideas. Information is key. From planning a vacation to preparing for a work meeting, we rely on research to provide us with valuable insights to connect the dots.

Research involves critical thinking and the ability to explore and evaluate multiple points of view.  It is more than the gathering of data and interpretation. Research demands us to venture beyond the act of obtaining information. We need to develop skill-sets that enable us to digest information, to reason, to validate, and participate in dialogue among others with differing perspectives.

My MBA journey added a strategic dynamic to my research capabilities. My approach to integrating and sharing knowledge evolved over the course of my studies.  Academic efforts honed and defined my research competency, giving me greater freedom to objectively explore and assess ideas and constructs. I especially enjoyed team projects, which provided the opportunity to collaborate and research within the context of a diverse community. Together, we searched for a solution to a specific challenge or issue, which well-prepared me for the team approach at the TMX today.

Conducting thorough research is essential within my chosen career path. I rely on rigorous research and meticulous attention to accuracy to prepare for strategic meetings with corporate executives, to formulate IPO strategies, to access public venture capital in Canada, to navigate complex transactions, to optimize operational efficiency and to foster growth.

The most important lesson that I’ve learned over the past few years, is that it is essential to encourage others to actively engage in research initiatives. I enjoy contributing to economic forums, international trade missions, and roundtables at the federal and provincial level.  Individual achievement is satisfying, but the greatest rewards come from working with others dedicated to seeking positive outcomes for our communities, local and global.

 

Dr. Joyline Makani: Research Takes Courage

Dr, Joyline Makani

Dr, Joyline Makani

“To be engaged, today’s citizen needs to be able to tease out fact from fiction. Notably, it is not just about obtaining information and being able to cite the sources of one’s ideas but being able to digest information, think critically, and participate in dialogue among others with different perspectives.”

Dr. Joyline Makani

The Merriam Webster on-line dictionary defines “research” as a studious inquiry or examination; especially:  investigation or experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories or laws.  Given the solemnity of that definition, we rarely recognize that we engage in “important” research daily, whether we are buying shoes, planning a trip, or considering food choices. In the end, we are what we research.

Is research for everyone?  Or just academics?  For answers, CFAME Connection reached out to Dr. Joyline Makani, the Management Librarian (Dalhousie Libraries) and Adjunct professor (Faculty of Graduate Studies) at Dalhousie University.  Dr. Makani shares insight into why research is essential in a world that revolves around complexity and change.  Join us as we begin a theme dialogue on the importance of research.

Dr. Joyline Makani:

Research is for everyone and is very necessary in the world today. Thanks to advances in information technology, we are witnessing an increasingly complex online information landscape with blurred lines between information consumers and information creators or producers.

Simply stated, anyone with a computer and access to the Internet can put anything they want onto the Internet. To heighten the complexity, there is no one, in most cases, evaluating or approving Internet content before it is made public. Thus, this type of landscape presents everyone with the challenge to develop and harness basic research skills in-order to successfully maneuver, gather and understand information and not just wait for academics to verify the truth.

In other words, analyzing information, and not just collecting it, is paramount in today’s world dominated by “fake news and alternative facts”. Each one of us engages in research daily, whether we are buying shoes, planning a trip, or considering food choices. In the end, we are what we research. As academics have long argued, research helps to shape our society.

More important, building a solid research skill set is increasingly becoming necessary for civic life, i.e., the ability to gather data and information, examine multiple perspectives and re-evaluate prior beliefs is the foundation for responsible and community-minded citizens. To be engaged, today’s citizen needs to be able to tease out fact from fiction. Notably, it is not just about obtaining information and being able to cite the sources of one’s ideas but being able to digest information, think critically, and participate in dialogue among others with different perspectives.

Research takes courage because we challenge ourselves to look beyond the obvious. It is human nature to feel comfortable with what we know or what we believe in. It takes courage to question our beliefs/biases and pay more attention rather than ignore information that does not confirm our beliefs – this is what research entails – requires checking your biases, following and interrogating the evidence where ever it leads you.

Next post: Dr. Martine Durier-Copp on Research is Ongoing

 

 

Marianne Hagen: Celebrating Alumni Stories

Celebrating the 20th Anniversary with Marianne Hagen and Michelle Hunter

Celebrating the 20th Anniversary with Marianne Hagen and Michelle Hunter

Marianne Hagen embodies the word, “celebration”.  As the Alumni & Student Engagement Manager for the Faculty of Management, Dalhousie University, Marianne recognizes the strength of a vibrant alumni to forge links around the globe. Focused on showcasing Dalhousie’s many milestones, Marianne believes “alumni stories” give courage to new generations of students to explore educational opportunities.  Dalhousie University has over 130,000 alumni worldwide.  “We are proud of our traditions, our history,” Marianne said in a recent telephone interview with CFAME Connection. “Our graduates exemplify the values of innovation, diversity and academic excellence within the reality of an ever-moving and ever-changing global community.”

Marianne’s ties with the Centre for Advanced Management Education date back to 1999, when she assumed the position of Program Manager for the then, MBA (IT) program.  Serendipity brought the MBA (IT) and newly formed OEGP program together in shared offices.  Marianne noted, “I was truly blessed to work with Michelle and Morven; they are both fantastic people. All the distance programs were housed in the same area. Later, when the MBA (IT) program closed, I was asked to lead the team with the on-campus MBA program and have stayed connected to the MBA (FS) program ever since.”

Marianne HagenMarianne shared her vision of creating engagement, sharing narratives and acknowledging contributions of graduates.

Engagement starts with students. Time devoted to meeting students and affirming their involvement in community events encourages active participation during their years as a student and in the years that follow their “walk across the stage” to receive their diploma. A connected student will turn into a connected alumnus. 

Over the past few years, I have been privileged to facilitate a mentorship program linking business students with our alumni. The outcomes of this initiative have been truly gratifying.  While we appreciate and value monetary contributions, it is my strong belief that our graduates have many ways in which to give back to Dalhousie University.  A commitment to support, encourage and mentor a student fosters the human spirit and provides the seed for future benefits to society.

I am celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the MBA (FS) and have been following the events that are happening across Canada.  There is more coming in 2018 when Dalhousie celebrates it 200th anniversary. This is an exciting time to be involved with Dalhousie.  Please join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn.  I enjoy hearing from our graduates.

20th Anniversary Celebration

 

Getting it Right – A Graduate’s Perspective

 

Wanita Fonseka MBS(FS) 2013

Wanita Fonseka MBS(FS) Class of 2013

Wanita Fonseka, Vice-President of Operations for Meridian, walked across the stage in 2013 to receive her MBA (FS). A financial service professional with over 20 years in retail branch and corporate experience, Wanita identified with Dr. McLarney’s discussion on Marks vs. Scholarship. Wanita believes that sustainable results, whether they are work related or personal endeavours, are a consequence of creating a climate of trust, encouraging diversity of thought, and leveraging individual talents.  Dr. McLarney’s words “the enormous obligation to get it right,” resonated, especially given the many priorities that mark our days.

“Getting it right,” noted Wanita in a telephone interview with CFAME Connection, “is more than a career responsibility.  It is about balancing work achievements with personal successes, by engaging in a compassionate and generous community.” Wanita contends that career opportunities, family commitments, and life-long learning goals are compatible when we are surrounded by a supportive environment. 

Wanita Fonseka:

“I am delighted to participate in the “Marks vs. Scholarship” dialogue.  A special thanks to Dr. McLarney and Irena Stropnik.   CFAME Connection is a fantastic opportunity to connect and share experiences.

What is balance anyway?  Does it mean distribution of yourself equally amongst everything that is included in work and life?  It certainly cannot be so.  If you are like me, you spend many, many, many hours at work without recognition for how quickly the hands on the clock are moving.  Next thing you know, you are late for that Karate class that you promised you would take your son to, or forgot that you told your friends that you would call them back, or did not check in on your mother with memory lapse to see how she’s coping… and the list goes on and on.

There cannot be an equal distribution on a daily basis.  What works for me may not work for you.  What you place a greater emphasis on, I may not.  What I do know is that I am surrounded by a support system that does not judge who I am, applauds me for what I do, challenges me to try new things, and will tell me that they need me when they feel I have drifted.  It is a system that is made up of colleagues, family, friends (new and old), teachers (not just by profession), children, blogs, books, and articles.  I find balance in reaching out to those in my support system and that means whenever and wherever.  It means booking things in calendars so they are not missed, it means leaning on those event coordinators (you know who you are) that plan vacations, dinners, and impromptu get-togethers.

Balance is what you make it; and it has made all the difference in my life.

 

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