The Learning Difficulties and Developmental Disabilities Programme at the College of Education, Administrative and Technical Sciences in cooperation with the Department of Special Education at Arabian Gulf University (AGU), organised a training programme titled “Foundational Workshop for the Advanced Research Seminar” for PhD students. The training programme is part of a broader plan to enhance the research proficiency of PhD students.

The workshop was presented by Dr Tariq Yousuf Melhem, Associate Professor in the Department of Special Education, and Dr Hazim Radwan Aal Ismail, Assistant Professor. It focused on applying an organised scientific methodology to identify promising educational projects in special education alongside developing an effective research plan that meets the needs of this vital field.

The programme covered the basic elements of a research plan: the study problem, objectives, questions or hypotheses, significance, limitations, and terminology. It guided participants in formulating clear, specific research problems that reflect realistic challenges in the field, as well as selecting appropriate methodologies, designing research tools suited to the research problem, and critically analysing prior studies to support the theoretical and methodological framework of the research.

Dr Ahmed Alabbasi, Vice Dean of the College of Education, Administrative and Technical Sciences, stated that the college is continually working to strengthen higher education and scientific research, and to enhance the research competencies of PhD students, who are fundamental to knowledge production and essential for achieving sustainable development, innovation, and effective contributions to national and global challenges.

Dr Wid Daghustani, Coordinator of the Learning Difficulties and Developmental Disabilities Programme, noted that developing advanced research skills among PhD students extends beyond the academic realm to enhancing critical thinking, methodological design, the ability to analyse complex issues, and the capacity to provide sound, applicable scientific solutions. The college aims to provide a stimulating research environment, access to modern resources and technologies, and expanded collaboration with local and international research institutions.

The workshop also addressed ethical considerations in special education research, and concluded with practical applications designed to assess the alignment of the research plan with the standards of rigorous doctoral-level research.

Participants praised the rich content and variety of the programme at the end. They noted significant benefits and expressed appreciation for the training opportunities offered in cooperation with the Department of Special Education and the Learning Difficulties and Developmental Disabilities Programme. They also expressed their intent to apply these research practices in their doctoral journeys.