Hypothesis formulation and development

Uchendu E. Chigbu

I agree with you. I would like to add a cartel and vested interests, who unethically thwart the young researchers' try to achieve innovation and a paradigm shift.

Lack of knowledge about designs, statistical software, scientific writing, etc

Research problem formulation, very clear, testable hypotheses (research assumptions) and being able to CLEARLY indicating the conceptual and theoretical steps to EXPLAIN the both the research problem and the research hypotheses. Believe it or not, even some students reading for their PhD theses have a problem with these basic research steps! I strongly suggest, therefore, that all students should be taught the very basics of research already at Elementary (Primary) and Secondary (High School), before entering University (college!). Thanks for sharing!

I think this is very important and interesting topic, I think the term "paucity of selfless academic mentors" does not exist in anyway, shape or form. Young scholars are slaughtered and looked down upon on every front, the established once only wants to use the young once and tell them how trashy their academic strengths are (Am speaking particularly for Africa). Academic hooliganism and academic terrorism is the greatest threat confronting young academics. Getting in even is something else, cos the established once do not want the brilliant once in. Its a pity, i must confess, if theirs hope I doubt.

Academic thugarism... Where we have mentors adding their names on papers and we as young researchers should abide because their name carry weight to get you accepted or published.

We need more support and most of all... Esteblished academics should stop being conservative against new innovative models and paradigms that develop.

lack of knowledge, material, plagiarism,...

There are various computer programmes to check for originality/plagiarism, such as Turnitin. I regularly use them to make sure that researchers (whether novices or established) are substantively original in their work. Lack of knowledge is surely the cumulative outcome of a lack of consistent dedication by faculty members via a range of peer-reviewed routes such as colloquia, workshops, conferences, etc. In the end, the University/college/school to which academics are attached, must ensure the availability of both research resources/programmes (as well as appropriate penalties) to enhance a research culture among scholars (whatever their individual trajectories in this regard). I hope that these suggestions are helpful.Best wishes. John J