I want to understand how cultural values change between generations and to what extent this influences health behaviour and communication
Health communication
In his PhD project on health communication, he investigates, among other things, the effect of large-scale health campaigns among this target group. In doing so, he examines generational differences within the Turkish-Dutch community and investigates the differences between the Turkish-Dutch and Dutch communities. How do the different target groups and generations relate to each other? Which (cultural) values correspond and which (cultural) values differ between the target group and generations? And where do the needs of the Turkish-Dutch target group lie?
"I want to understand how cultural values change between generations and to what extent this influences health behaviour and communication. The Turkish-Dutch are the largest group of migrants in the Netherlands, but little research has been done on how to improve health communication for this target group," says Akpinar.
Time management
Besides his scientific appointment, Akpinar also has another passion: time management. While conducting his PhD research, he noticed how essential effective time management is. Balancing research activities, teaching, and his personal life with two small children has its struggles. Even as a teacher, he sees students struggling with planning, prioritising and dealing with deadlines. In his book Managing your time effectively. 50 tips to work smartly and productively (Effectief omgaan met je tijd. 50 tips om slim en productief te werken'), Akpinar, as the title suggests, gives handy advice for effective time management. Besides teaching, Akpinar also conducts workshops and training sessions on the subject. He gets excited about conveying complex ideas in an accessible way.
My rule of thumb is to check my phone and email twice a day so I can efficiently tick off my own to-do's in the meantime
Be mindful of your own to-do list
How does Akpinar himself combine his PhD research with his busy life? He offers a personal tip: "You can think of all the incoming messages you get as someone else's to-do list; in a sense, you are finishing their to-do list. It's important to be mindful of your own to-do list! My rule of thumb is to check my phone and email twice a day so I can efficiently tick off my own to-do's in the meantime."