A Phenomenological Inquiry into the Lived Experiences of Students in Navigating Research Writing

Research writing is an essential component of higher education. However, numerous students have challenges with getting it finished. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of eight fourth-year students at Assumption College of Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, as they navigated the challenges of research writing. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and examined using thematic analysis. This study indicated that students perceived research writing as a challenging and difficult task due to workload pressure, poor confidence, linguistic challenges, and procedural requirements. Throughout these obstacles, students employed coping methods like time management, peer support, seeking assistance from instructors and advisors, and practices for emotional regulation. Throughout this journey, students acquired significant insights, such as heightened confidence, refined writing skills, and strengthened resilience. The study emphasizes the necessity for more academic assistance, more explicit writing guidance, and improved accessibility to research training to assist students in the research process.