First time I joined the class, I was really amazed by the lecturer who conducted the session. She is really supportive, welcoming and really enjoy listening to students' responses. As I remember, it was 17 of us in the class, 2 from Poland, 1 from China, 3 from Spain, 3 from Iraq, 2 from Mexico, 1 from Italy, 1 from Oman, 1 from Egypt, 1 from Malaysia (that is me ! :-P) 1 from England and 1 from France.
In this class, you won't feel shy to speak as everybody is very supportive and nobody is going to laugh at you or embarrassing you. I really enjoy attending the classes. We should have that kind of environment in order to make students become more participative in a class.
First Session was about general issues and introduction for all members of the class. Everybody has to speak and talk about his/her research.
Second Session was about how to make a good summary. I left my notes in my office. Will add in the blog later.
Third Session which is today, is about Literature Review.
In the beginning of the session our lecturer ask her students if any of them facing a problem and try to find the solutions together with other members of the class. A person raised his hand and asking about how to read efficiently.. well..well..well.. I am facing the same problem as well.. I am in the 4th week of my PhD program and at this state.. I should have read many journals and other researchers' work related to my topic. I am a slow reader too.. But I am trying and keep trying to improve my reading skills.
Our lecturer suggested a book by Tony Buzan.
In fact I have read the book..and it help me to improve my reading skill..
In general, we can say, literature review is about finding out what has been done or some people refer it as finding 'state-of-the-art' of your research area. Research area is like an ocean which comprises thousands..billions trillians of water drops in it. Our piece of work can be refered as a drop of water in our research area.
