M. P. Institute of Social Science Research

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National Training Workshop on Advancing Social Science Research: Innovative Tools, Techniques and Digital Resources Commences at MPISSR (4 August, 2025)
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The Madhya Pradesh Institute of Social Science Research (MPISSR), Ujjain, inaugurated a five-day National Training Workshop on "Advancing Social Science Research: Innovative Tools, Techniques & Digital Resources" sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, on 4th August 2025.

Professor D.K. Verma, Pro-Vice Chancellor, BRAUSS, Mhow, as Chief Guest, reflected on the evolution of research practices. He recalled a time when technology played a limited role in the social sciences and cautioned against an uncritical dependence on digital tools. Quoting metaphorically, he remarked that "AI without thinking is like becoming Bhasmasur," warning that researchers must become masters of technology rather than its slaves. While acknowledging the opportunities presented by technological advancements, he emphasised that software and automation cannot replace the critical role of human insight in social science research.

In his presidential address, Professor Gopal Krishna Sharma revisited the earlier challenges researchers faced in data collection and analysis. While appreciating how modern tools have made research more accessible, he also expressed concern over the diminishing capacity for analytical and critical thinking among students due to over-reliance on digital platforms.

Professor Yatindra Singh Sisodia, Director of MPISSR, formally welcomed the participants and encouraged them to use the workshop as an opportunity to sharpen their digital competencies and research acumen. Dr Sunil Singh Chandel, Coordinator of the Workshop, gave an overview of the five-day programme and informed that the workshop has drawn participation from scholars and faculty members across a range of disciplines, including Political Science, Management, Law, Economics, Education, Psychology, and History. Participants from several states, like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

The programme focuses on the use of innovative e-resources and digital research tools, covering areas such as literature retrieval, referencing, data analysis, report writing, and plagiarism detection. Specialised sessions will provide training in bibliometric and content analysis, MS Excel, NVivo, and SPSS, as well as internet-based research applications. Participants will also be introduced to open-source software, data visualisation techniques, and plagiarism detection tools like Turnitin and WordPress. By integrating technology with methodological rigour, the workshop aims to build efficient, ethical, and technologically proficient research practices in the social sciences.