Research methods as core curriculum for general studies

Abstract

General studies means "a programme offered at the undergraduate level with the aim of providing students with living skills in modern society". One of the objectives is to equip students with analytical skills in research. This objective has not been seriously emphasised. In the light of the status as one of research universities in Malaysia, the objective needs to be given due consideration. Among the strategies needed to make PPU as a centre of excellence in research methodology are: (a) to incorporate research skills as a core teaching of general studies, (b) to offer research methodology courses at undergraduate as well as postgraduate level, and (c) to establish PPU as a leader and reference for research methodology. It is therefore the aim of this paper to discuss the proposition.