International Forum 

Vol. 21, No. 1

June 2018

Print ISSN : 0119-2000
Online ISSN : 2350-7497

 

  

     This new issue of our journal is characterized by a great diversity. Over the past two to three years, we have been experiencing diversity at much higher level than all the preceding years of the history of this journal. This is because we decided embrace diversity and become more inclusive. The diversity of this issue is seen through more qualitative research papers, different topics, authors from different institutions, parts of the world, and academic levels and fields. 

     For decades, social research has been predominantly dominated by quantitative research. As qualitative research spreads in the Philippines and beyond, we have seen an increase in the number of qualitative research manuscripts. The continuous effort of AIIAS’s Asian Qualitative Research Association (AQRA) in regularly delivering training on qualitative research and the addition of qualitative research courses in the AIIAS’s Graduate School, have helped increase the passion for qualitative research. In fact, some of the papers in this issue were first presented at the AQRA conference. 

     Now that scholars are allowed to use whichever research design they desire; more topics are explored and manuscripts are coming from many different institutions and countries. Additionally, more and more graduate and doctoral students are taking the courage of publishing. More faculty are willing to co-publish with students; thus, providing an opportunity for scholarly mentoring in publication. This diversity is welcome and highly encouraged for all. 

     As we continue to find better ways to continue serving the scholarly community, we have asked the new AIIAS faculty member, Dr. Godwin Aja, to be the associate editor of this journal. He joins us from Nigeria with an extensive international scholarly expertise. Additionally, we are introducing the online platform for article submission and review. Authors are encouraged to submit their manuscripts at http://journals.aiias.edu/iforum. 

     Enjoy this special set of 12 articles prepared for you!.