Hi,
my name is Esko. I live in Vantaa, Finland, and work in the University of Helsinki as a project coordinator. Research is something I do sometimes as part of my job but mostly in free time. However, since I have a family with two small kids, my time for carrying out studies is limited. Still I find this initiative an interesting opportunity to enagage in collaborative work with you and try to do my best to contribute as expected.

In my opinion, what does it mean to trust?

I agree with you, Clint, on the promises. Moreover, I think that trust depends on the quality of the relationship with another person. If a person feels that both s/he and another person respect each other, s/he can trust her/him. Furthermore, I should also feel that the other person trusts me (mutual trusting) in order to trust him/her. I trust my wife, because I believe that she respects me and trusts on me.

Why do I want to be a part of this research team?

I'm only taking my very first steps with my PhD project. My initial plan was approved by the University, but now I consider the plan poor and wish to renew it. Since I haven't been involved in any research team, I would love to discuss with you and learn from your thinking on these issues. It's also a great opportunity to get experience of cross-cultural collaboration online!

What are my personal goals for what you would like to have accomplished by the end of this research period (in December)?

I wish I had found a new focus for my study. I also hope to have established good relationships with all of you and contributed to our understanding of cross-cultural collaboration and instruction online.

Kind regards,
Esko