Course: A Good Start - Introductory Training for Doctoral Students

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Course title A Good Start - Introductory Training for Doctoral Students
Course code VURH/GSD
Organizational form of instruction Seminary
Level of course Doctoral
Year of study not specified
Semester Winter
Number of ECTS credits 1
Language of instruction English
Status of course unspecified
Form of instruction Face-to-face
Work placements This is not an internship
Recommended optional programme components None
Lecturer(s)
  • Dzyuba Borys, doc. MSc. Ph.D.
  • Boryshpolets Serhii, MSc. Ph.D.
Course content
- Introduction to doctoral studies at the University of South Bohemia: expectations, responsibilities, and key milestones. - Academic culture, communication, and collaboration within the University and the international research community. - Effective communication with supervisors, colleagues, and collaborators. - Planning and organisation of doctoral studies, including setting research objectives, milestones, and professional development goals. - Scientific thinking: developing research questions, formulating hypotheses, and principles of evidence-based reasoning. - International mobility, networking, career development, and funding opportunities for doctoral students. - Student support services, well-being, intercultural communication, and resources available to doctoral students at the University. - Preparation of a Personal Doctoral Development Plan.

Learning activities and teaching methods
Monologic (reading, lecture, briefing), Dialogic (discussion, interview, brainstorming), Practical training, Case studies
  • Preparation for classes - 14 hours per semester
  • Class attendance - 12 hours per semester
Learning outcomes
The course is designed to support doctoral students in making a successful transition into doctoral studies at the University of South Bohemia. It familiarises students with the expectations placed on doctoral candidates, effective planning of doctoral studies, communication with supervisors and colleagues, the academic and cultural environment, and the support services available at the University. The course also introduces the principles of scientific thinking, including formulating research questions and hypotheses, as a foundation for independent research. It prepares students to organise their doctoral studies effectively, integrate into the academic community, and develop as independent researchers.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: - plan and organise their doctoral research effectively; - apply principles of research integrity and responsible scientific conduct; - communicate scientific ideas appropriately in oral and written forms; - identify opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and research funding; - critically evaluate scientific information; - use modern digital tools, including artificial intelligence, responsibly in scientific research.
Prerequisites
Enrolment to a doctoral study programme at USB. No additional prerequisites are required.

Assessment methods and criteria
Student performance assessment, Interview, Systematic student observation, Analysis of the qualification work

Active participation in lectures, discussions, and practical activities is expected. Students are required to complete assigned preparatory reading and actively engage in individual and group exercises during the course. As a final assignment, each student will prepare a 2-3-page Personal Doctoral Development Plan reflecting the topics covered in the course and present it in a short oral presentation.
Recommended literature
  • Additional literature and INTERNET resources will be presented during lectures. .


Study plans that include the course
Faculty Study plan (Version) Category of Branch/Specialization Recommended year of study Recommended semester