Future Focus in Applied Research

Week 6 Learning Summary, April 6 – April 12, 2014 – Dr. Paul Rux

“Repetition is the mother of learning.”  This is an old time-tested, field-tested saying; we will apply its wisdom here right now.  During the week, your humble servant has provided constant feedback about the importance of applying the “five-year rule” to finding and citing research references.  The “rule” says do not use research with publication dates older than five years from today.  Of course, we do historical research; when we do, it is valid to cite research with dates beyond the “five-year rule.”  Here is the reason for this “five-year rule.”  As a rule, research is applied.  This means we want to be able to use it here, now, and tomorrow.  In turn, this means the research on concepts, practices needs to be as current as possible.  When we discuss issues in 2014 we ought not to use research with publication dates like 1956, unless we are providing historical background.  If we do provide historical background, we need to be explicit about doing it for our readers.  The critical consumer of research, especially applied research, which is at the heart of your doctoral program, will likely set aside work that uses references with dates older than five years from today.   Please be aware of this professional standard to protect yourself.   There, you have heard a repeat of my core feedback to you during week 6.  Keep up your overall good work.  The end to our course is coming fast now!   Hang on, in!   Dr. Rux