Rig Tshoel - Research Journal of the Royal Thimphu College

Editorial

2025-01-30T16:49:06+00:00

The Forgotten Battle

2025-01-30T17:03:37+00:00

Ngabiphu Monastery Ruins

2025-01-30T17:08:21+00:00

Inherent Linguistic Bias against Women in the Dzongkha Language

2025-01-30T17:12:03+00:00

Flow of Liquor across Time in Bhutan

2025-01-30T17:15:44+00:00

In this article, we focus on the consumption of alcohol, known as ara in Bhutan, and
how this is embedded in the everyday lives of Bhutanese. Ara plays a significant
role in the Bhutanese way of life, from the past to the present. This article attempts
to locate the significance of ara in a context in when industrially manufactured
alcohol abounds. Further, the article pays close attention to the presence of ara in
social gatherings, cultural practices and rituals for various purposes. This is done by
drawing on fieldwork accounts and making a case about the significance of ara in
the present. We aim to shed light on how ara has been intricately woven into the
fabric of everyday life for the Bhutanese people throughout history

Faculty mentoring programme at Norbuling Rigter College

2025-01-30T17:22:02+00:00

This study sought to investigate the faculty mentoring programme through the
framework of self-determination theory (SDT) at Norbuling Rigter College (NRC).
The main goal was to examine how the principles of SDT—namely autonomy,
competence, and relatedness—are expressed within the dynamics of faculty
mentoring relationships and their effects on the experiences of mentees. Employing
a qualitative research methodology, the study utilized semi-structured interviews
alongside thematic analysis for data collection and interpretation. Participants,
comprising both mentors and mentees, were selected through a purposeful
sampling method to ensure a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. The
interviews concentrated on the roles of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in
shaping motivation, engagement, and overall satisfaction among mentees. Thematic
analysis revealed key themes that were framed within the context of SDT principles,
providing valuable insights into their significance in the faculty mentoring
program. The results underscore the importance of the faculty mentoring program
in advancing the institution's mission and fostering the professional development of
both mentors and mentees. Additionally, the program has highlighted various
challenges faced by early-career academics and has proposed essential strategies to
address these issues.

Data-Driven Decision Making

2025-01-30T17:26:12+00:00

This study explores how principals implement data-driven decision-making
(DDDM) strategies to improve students’ academic success. Quantitative data were
collected from 45 Principals of western Dzongkhags (Thimphu, Paro,
Wangdiphodrang and Punakha) and 4 Principals were purposively selected for a
semi-structured interview. Both quantitative and qualitative data findings reveal
that principals actively use diverse data sources, primarily standardized test scores
and student feedback, to inform targeted interventions. While there is a strong belief
in the positive impact of DDDM on overall academic performance, challenges persist,
particularly in addressing achievement gaps and ensuring equity in data use. Some
of the impediments to a successful implementation of DDDM include insufficient
training in data literacy and logistical constraints like limited time and resources.
Qualitative insights highlight innovative strategies, such as award ceremonies, to
foster a positive school culture and enhance collaboration. However, challenges
remain in establishing a consistent data-driven culture among staff, which is crucial
for the sustainability of DDDM practices. Overall, this study underscores the
importance of comprehensive data use while addressing cultural and training
barriers to optimize student outcomes.