A six-day interdisciplinary course in “The Art and Science of Research: Data Collection and Analysis in Social Sciences and Humanities” was conducted by DCT’s Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar, from 23rd to 29th October 2025. Organized under the aegis of the Winter School Scheme of Goa State Research Foundation, the course sought to initiate the students of Higher Secondary Schools into the fundamental concepts and processes in research. Dr. Mukta Karamadi (Dept. of Psychology) and Dr. Akshata Bhatt (Dept. of English) were the Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator respectively.
Participants were provided training in holistic aspects of research—its aims, ethics, and major approaches: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Students learned data collection techniques such as interviews, focus group discussions, content and document analysis, case studies, and questionnaires. They practiced preparing schedules, conducting interviews, and documenting data. Modules on data analysis – held in the language lab of the college – covered coding, organizing, and using Excel for quantitative computation. Qualitative sessions explored theoretical, observational, and ethnographic methods, emphasizing how both numerical and descriptive data generate insights. Field visits to Sangath, the Directorate of Planning, and Goa University’s Manohar Parrikar School of Law provided valuable exposure to real-world research environments and practices.
Speaking to the students at the Inaugural and Valedictory Ceremonies, the Chairperson of GSRF, Prof. M.K. Janarthanam, Managing Director, Prof. Savio Falleiro and Nodal Officer, Dr. Manoj Ibrampurkar, shared their thoughts on the relevance of research not only in academic pursuits but also in contributing meaningfully to social welfare. They underlined the importance of systematic and ethical research in addressing core problems of society and finding solutions. Principal of DCT’s Dhempe College, Prof. P.S. Ramu Murthy urged students to build on the knowledge gained through the course and continue their scholarly endeavours.
Students from seven higher secondary schools viz. Sharada Mandir School, Miramar, Vasantrao Dempo HSS Cujira, Purshottam Walawalkar HSS Mapusa, Shri. Saraswati HSS, Dr. K.B. Hedgewar HSS, Cujira, Carmel HSS, Nuvem and Our Lady of the Rosary HSS, Dona Paula participated proactively in the proceedings of the course.
