Collaborative learning in PhD programmes: a model from the department of management

This paper presents an argument for a re-orientation of research strategies in Business faculties in Australia universities based on the experience of a cohort of PhD students involved in Action Research (AR) Business faculties have a relatively low participation rate in postgraduate research. Given the highly pragmatic nature of business operations, it is argued that the traditional research methodology of hypothesis testing and data collection may not suit the needs of business as well as it would traditional science. The paper suggests a new model for research in business faculties and addresses two separate issues. The first is the supervision and management of the research project and the second is the subject of the research itself. The paper suggests a combination of AR and what is termed "traditional research".