Dissertation Instructions

Word Count: 12,000

  • Learning Outcomes Assessed :
  1. Independently develop a research problem guided by gaps in existing knowledge and an organisational issue, and determine appropriate research strategies
  2. Demonstrate critical rigour in analysis of literature and data by making effective use of multiple and critical sources of data/information/knowledge
  3. Derive new insights based on critical review of the literature and findings of management and organisational practice
  4. Operate at the interface between theory and practice to derive valid and reliable conclusions
  5. Demonstrate skills depending on research methods chosen but these can include: interviewing, questionnaire design and administration, focus group management (including diary management), project management, information search, text analysis, content analysis, statistical techniques
  6. Communicate the research outcomes in a manner that demonstrates clarity of organisational thinking, logical argument and practical recommendations for further research and for practice.

Assignment Guidelines:

  • Write a coherent dissertation as a response to a business issue. • Review relevant literature and demonstrate a critical way to analyse it.
  • Design and undertake relevant research, collect data and demonstrate research skills
  • Analyse valid and reliable evidence to draw sound business conclusions.
  • Produce recommendations for further research and/or practising managers.
  • Project Report Structure and Formatting The dissertation/project report should be presented to a high standard.

 

The following structure is recommended:

  1. Front Cover Page (Appendix 4 in Handbook )
  2. Title Page (Appendix 5 in Handbook)
  3. Acknowledgement
  4. Executive Summary or Abstract
  5. Table of Contents and Page Numbers
  6. List of Figures and Tables
  7. Chapter One – Introduction: Research Topic, Research aims and Objectives. Why is it important to conduct the research? The justification should be clearly argued on the bases of theory (the literature) and business.
  8. Chapter Two – Literature Review
  9. Chapter Three – Research Methodology and Methods
  10. Chapter Four – Data Findings
  11. Chapter Five – Data Analysis
  12. Chapter Six – Conclusions and Recommendations (where appropriate)
  13. References
  14. Appendices: This must include the research instruments like a questionnaire and interview guide. It should also include your ethics certificate – if applicable (Any dissertations submitted collecting primary data or secondary – transcript can be needed.