Hopes to Move from Plans to Action – But First, Let’s Take a Break!
As June draws to a close, the academic calendar signals a shift into holiday mode for researchers. Spring in the JATKOT group has been steadily productive—at times exhausting, but also rewarding. At the beginning of the year, we welcomed two new members: doctoral researcher Mia, who is exploring the work-life experiences of highly educated women diagnosed with ADHD, and research assistant Emilia, who has taken on a wide range of research support tasks. The group’s projects have progressed well, each on its own timeline and with its own unique characteristics.
Highlights and Sparkling Moments
One of the spring’s highlights was the extensive “JATKOT” survey data collected through the collaboration of various group members. Early in the year, we focused on selecting the topics and corresponding measures for the survey. We evaluated different options in terms of functionality, validity, and alignment with our research goals. We worked together on the multi-phase translation of the survey items and eventually delivered the finalized Finnish-language questionnaire to Verian (formerly Kantar), who conducted the actual data collection. By late spring, we had in our hands a large dataset representing the actively working Finnish population, covering themes such as workplace learning and its support, innovation and development, and occupational well-being. The data also allows for interesting comparisons between different work roles and work arrangements—remote, hybrid, and on-site. We plan to report the basic findings at the turn of the year, and the actual analyses have already begun as summer approaches.
We also had reason to raise virtual toasts for other milestones. Several master’s theses were completed within the ETKOT thesis group operating under JATKOT, with topics ranging from police work motivation to professional agency, the nature of psychological safety in the tech industry, and the significance of learning leadership. While spring wasn’t a peak season for article publications, a few manuscripts received publication decisions and will be published in the fall. We also secured publishing contracts for two different books. Additionally, many articles were revised and submitted for final review rounds, so we expect several decisions in the fall. Among our doctoral researchers, we’re seeing plans materialize into tangible research outputs. One particularly noteworthy achievement this spring was the completion and submission for pre-examination of our doctoral researcher Sara’s dissertation manuscript. Beyond being a major personal accomplishment, it was a shared moment for the group as we heard about the final results and Sara’s reflections during the final push.
Planning and Plan Changes
A significant portion of the spring was also spent on funding applications. Several thematic calls aligned well with our research topics, and we performed excellently—though we ultimately had to settle for second place. These application processes involve complex planning, shaping future scenarios, assembling and reassembling the puzzle. While this work can be draining, it also builds expertise and professional growth. When funding is denied, the time spent on applications can feel like “idling,” leading to frustration and a sense of failure. Although we didn’t hit the jackpot this academic year, several group members did secure smaller wins. Thanks to these, the outlook for next academic year’s funding is quite secure.
From March onward, the spring felt like living in the future: group-level planning for funding applications, my own work plan with teaching and research tasks, updating the publication plan for next year, and then more plans—for funding, communications, and time management. Now, at the end of June, after this whirlwind of planning, only one key goal has emerged for early autumn: more doing, less planning. So, the plan for autumn is planned!
The JATKOT group will resume activities after the holidays on August 21st with our (now traditional 😉) seminar days in Joensuu. For now, it’s time to rest and recharge. In the fall, we’ll move from plans to action!
Wishing you sunny summer days,
Soila, Jatkot-group