Navigating the Path: Factors Influencing Timely Completion of Doctoral Research in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Universities with Mediating and Moderating Mechanisms

Abstract

It has been our objective to present a comprehensive model that future research, especially empirical, can be used to study determinants for the timely completion of doctoral research theses by the Ph.D. scholars in the public sector universities of KPK, Pakistan. By establishing the crucial independent variables (time spent on project, objectives setting, motivation, support form head of division and, research monitoring) this model aims to clarify the mechanisms the independent variables are affecting the dependent variable i.e. timely completing research work. Its methodology even follows upon, and it does so using Saunders’ Onion Model. The research philosophy that is positivism can be found in the innermost layer, and it directs the empirical analysis of the identified determinants. One level down is the deductive approach to research, where hypotheses are based on what is already known about the phenomenon. The approach to the study is a survey, which is an efficient means of gathering quantitative information. The quantitative choice of mono-method concentrates on the issues of logic in testing the hypothesis, using only numerical information. The time frame is cross-sectional, at one point in time, which serves as an instantaneous assessment of associations among variables. Finally, the most internal level specifies the methods and the participants which are the PhD/MPhil scholar population among the KPK public sector universities. The sampling used is proportionate random sampling, in which every university is represented by a number of data that corresponds to the number of its population. This procedure provides sufficient statistical power for analysis. The plan for analysis also involves carrying out descriptive and reliability statistics using SPSS, and conducting Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to test relationships between variables using Partial Least Squares (PLS). The model includes also focused concentration as mediator which measures how efficiently students can keep their mind on research activities. Research complexity is considered as a moderator variable, as the complexity of the research process may change the relationship between independent variables and the dependent variable. Based on self-determination theory, the model highlights the role of intrinsic motivation and goal-directed behavior when it comes to academic achievement. By offering a systematic approach and structure for how such integration can be channeled to support doctoral scholars to complete their studies in a timely manner, the project seeks to make a contribution to research in the above areas of inquiry. Theoretical, Industry and Academic Relevance: Implications pertain to academia, industry and theoretical development, prompting future inquires and considerations of the longitudinal effects of doctorateness, discipline-related doctoral challenges and the value of technological applications in the doctorateness process. Finally, this study paves the way for further discussions and exploration in the area with a purpose of enhancing doctoral education and its outcomes in KPK and beyond.

Keywords: Timely completion, doctoral research, , time investment, goal setting, motivation, supervisor support, research guidance, focused concentration, research complexity, mediating variable, moderating variable, Self-Determination Theory.