In the lab, each student works on his or her own project under the direction of the PI. At times, the PI needs work done on his or her research and wrestles the minions into doing some of the labor. It’s part of the deal . . . the opportunity to work (and often get paid) in a lab, in exchange for some directed research by the PI. All’s fair.

So why not use the model, eh? I am the PI of my Applied Research Program, and my students have great ideas to share regarding my dissertation. Since I am not using them as subjects, why not take advantage of some of their insight with determining interview questions.

Qualitative research is supposed to have peer examination to get multiple perspectives. My “peers” are really my students. They think great and will help me immensely.

Link to the National Award Winning Applied Science Research Blog for student perspective: http://appliedscienceresearch.blogspot.com/2006/11/pis-research.html

OK, OK, I know this post reeks of sarcasm