Postgraduate Students\u27 Problem-Solving Behaviour through Research Skill Development (RSD) Framework in Research Methodology Course: Case Study in Indonesia and Malaysia

Abstract

Problem-solving ability is a crucial skill for postgraduate students, playing a vital role in research success, particularly in designing, conducting, and evaluating research. However, many students encounter difficulties during the process, such as determining a viable research topic, selecting suitable methods, and accurately interpreting data. The problem-solving behaviors that students exhibit could potentially influence their level of research skills within the Research Skill Development (RSD) framework, which offers six key aspects for developing research skills. This study aimed to explore the relationship between graduate students\u27 problem-solving behaviours and their research skills based on the RSD framework. The study involved eight students from two universities in Malaysia and Indonesia. Data were collected through problem-solving tests and semi-structured interviews. The RSD framework was used to assess the students\u27 level of research skills, which included aspects such as planning, conducting, and evaluating research. Analysis was conducted to identify patterns of problem-solving behaviours associated with the level of RSD. The results showed that students with more sophisticated problem-solving behaviours achieved higher levels of research skills in the RSD framework. Recommendations are provided for the development of more effective programmes so that students can be better prepared to face challenges in the academic and professional world.