National Library of Syria Launches Specialized Research Skills Course
The National Library of Syria in Damascus launched a specialized training program today, Sunday, titled “The Craft of Scientific Research in the Humanities.” Organized under the auspices of the Syrian Ministry of Culture, the course is set to run until October 28, drawing a wide range of participants, including postgraduate students, academics, and researchers eager to refine their scholarly skills.
The curriculum features a series of daily specialized lectures delivered by a group of distinguished professors and academic experts. The program covers essential areas of academic inquiry, ranging from the fundamental concepts and tools of scientific research to the precise mechanisms of data collection and documentation. Furthermore, the sessions address the rigorous academic standards required for drafting and publishing research papers.
In his opening lecture, “Fundamentals and Concepts of Scientific Research,” the Director-General of the National Library of Syria, Dr. Saeed Hijazi, emphasized the necessity of distinguishing between substantive academic work and the simple aggregation of information. Dr. Hijazi underscored that effective scientific research requires strict adherence to objective and methodological conditions to ensure the production of a genuine scholarly contribution. He also cautioned against the risks of plagiarism and academic dishonesty, urging participants to rely on critical analysis and verified documentation.
The lecture also examined challenges posed by technological advancements, specifically the use of artificial intelligence in research. Dr. Hijazi stressed the importance of transparency regarding the use of such tools, while emphasizing that the researcher maintains full responsibility for the accuracy of their findings. He also highlighted the necessity of verifying references from their original sources and maintaining strict data confidentiality.
Following this, Dr. Musallam Taybeh presented a lecture on “The Structure of Scientific Research,” which detailed the organizational steps required to build a study. His presentation covered the entire process from selecting a research title and defining the problem to setting objectives, establishing a research plan, and organizing chapters. Dr. Taybeh emphasized the importance of maintaining methodological consistency and balance throughout the study to ensure that results and recommendations are grounded solely in the scientific evidence presented.
This course is part of the National Library of Syria’s broader efforts to create an interactive training environment for researchers and to provide them with modern academic tools to elevate the standard of scientific research in the country. The program is scheduled to continue in the coming days, with sessions covering additional topics such as data collection methodologies, criteria for evaluating scientific research, and the requirements for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, all aimed at supporting Syrian educational and research institutions.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
