External resources

Isolation measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 means that social researchers who conduct face-to-face fieldwork (interviews, focus groups, participant observation, ethnographies etc) are now faced with the challenge of either delaying or re-inventing their methods so that they can continue their research until these measures are relaxed.

Dr Yenn Lee from the University of London has created a guide for conducting research despite the travel restrictions, which you may find useful - Conducting Research Despite Travel Restrictions

ThinkWell uses the latest psychological and educational research to assist high achievers to achieve maximum productivity. It provides workshops, books, toolkits, free templates and guides.

For PhD students:

• The seven secrets of highly successful research students
• Preparing for the 3MT: Everything you need to know
• Staying well during your PhD
• Time for research
• How to plan your PhD
• Communicating the impact of your research
• Creative tools you can use
• Mentoring programs

To view all the resources available visit https://www.ithinkwell.com.au/for-phd-students

For researchers:

• Turbocharge your writing
• Developing a research track record on a shoestring
• Staying well in your research career
• Communicating the impact of your research
• Creative tools you can use
• Early career researcher masterclass
• Building research leaders program
• Team writing tool

To view all the resources available visit https://www.ithinkwell.com.au/for-researchers 

For research supervisors:

• Fundamentals of postgraduate research supervision
• Professional development
• Questions for potential students
• Assessment of PhD thesis
• Supervision and working arrangements
• Things to tell new PhD students
• Your supervisory practice self assessment
• Download the full PhD supervisor toolkit (zip format)

To view all the resources available visit https://www.ithinkwell.com.au/for-research-supervisors

Headspace:

Mindfulness for your everyday life. Stress less. move more. Sleep soundly. Free trial available.

Portal:

Beautiful and immersive ambience from around the world, designed to improve focus, sleep and relaxation. Free trial available.

Stop, Breath and Think:

A friendly app to guide people through meditations for mindfulness and compassion. Free trial available.

Smiling Mind:

Non-for-profit web and app based meditation program to bring mindfulness into your life. 

John Gillen, Director of Rehab Clinics UK, has developed a guide for students that gives practical tips and guidance on steps they could take to improve their mental health. Click to view Student guide to managing mental health

The QAA has provided a short resource clarifying national expectations for doctoral academic standards with the aim of reassuring students who have had to replan and reschedule their research.