A total of 54 graduate students attended the Thesis and Dissertation Writing Orientation on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The session, held from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Reading Area, 3rd floor, O’Brien Library, provided essential guidance on thesis and dissertation writing, panel selection, and defense preparation.
The orientation, designed for students enrolled in Thesis/Dissertation Writing, aimed to equip them with a comprehensive understanding of the research process, from manuscript preparation to the completion of their degrees. The activity was conducted by Dr. Ronaldo SP. Elicay, one of the Program Directors in the Graduate School.
Dr. Elicay provided a detailed chapter-by-chapter discussion on structuring the research manuscript, ensuring that students were well-informed about the expectations and requirements of their respective programs. He also elaborated on the rigorous process of panel selection, emphasizing the challenges of coordinating schedules among panelists. Furthermore, he highlighted that the thesis and dissertation defense process is time-intensive, noting that instrument validation alone demands a significant period before a study can proceed to the next phase.
To make the discussion more engaging, Dr. Elicay shared some of the experiences of graduate students, as well as his insights, to illustrate the challenges commonly faced in thesis and dissertation writing and defense. Before concluding, he allotted time for participants to seek clarification, particularly on formulating research questions, emphasizing the importance of qualitative and quantitative research.
The event was attended by 5 PhD students and 49 MA students from different programs, underscoring the university’s commitment to cultivating a rigorous research culture across disciplines. To ensure a conducive learning environment, a coffee station was made available to the participants.
By providing structured guidance and expert insights, the orientation reinforced Ateneo de Naga University’s dedication to academic excellence, equipping graduate students with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of thesis and dissertation writing.
Prepared by:
Arnel D. Abiog, Jr.
MAED-ELT
