REQUIRED DISSERTATION CONTENT
- The dissertation is about 13,000 words and must be submitted in an approved form on a topic related to the Master’s programme in Accounting and Finance. The front sheet, table of contents page, references list, cover page, ethics clearance form, and any appendices would not count in the word count of your dissertation.
- Details about the content of a dissertation are available on NILE in the research methods training folder. See also below a brief description of the content of a dissertation.
The dissertation MUST include the following in the same Table of Contents Template:
- Cover page (See the cover page template on NILE in the important forms folder)
- Assignment submission sheet. The form is available on NILE in the important forms folder.
- Research ethics clearance form (see the important forms folder on NILE)
- Acknowledgement (i.e. It is your appreciation to all the people that helped you in your dissertation)
- Abstract
- Table of contents (It is a list of all the content of your dissertation and their page numbers. See the table of contents template on NILE in the important forms folder)
- Introduction chapter(s) (see research methods training materials on NILE)
- Literature review chapter (see research methods training materials on NILE)
- Research methodology, design, and methods chapter (see research methods training materials on NILE)
- Data analysis, discussion, and research findings chapter (see research methods training materials on NILE)
- Conclusion and recommendation chapter (see research methods training materials on NILE)
- References or bibliography (see research methods training materials on NILE and the academic integrity folder)
- Appendices (This should be placed at the end of your dissertation. e.g. copy of the questionnaire, interview schedule, data set, SPSS or NVIVO output)
Additional information for structuring the Final dissertation and Proposal are available in Appendix 2 and 3.
REQUIRED DISSERTATION FORMAT
- Students are required to submit a dissertation of 13,000 words in length (excluding appendices and footnotes). This is a strict word limit and not a recommended guideline. It counts for 60 credits out of students’ degrees and MUST count towards their degree classification.
- Each chapter in your dissertation should start with an introduction and ends with a summary even the introductory chapters (see the research methods training folder on NILE to learn more about writing your dissertation).
- All pages should be adequately and consecutively numbered.
DISSERTATION SUBMISSION
You MUST submit the following with your dissertation:
- Proof of data collection technique used (e.g. copy of questionnaire or interview schedule) and the output of statistical analytical software utilised for the analysis (i.e. SPSS or NVivo output) must be supplied in the appendices section at the end of the dissertation.
- All submissions should be through Turnitin on NILE.
- Students could submit their propsal and final draft to check the simalirity up to submission date. However, they can not resubmit after the the due daet. For that please make sure you submit the last draft on the dye date.
- Turnitin submission for different chapters will not be allowed on NILE (e.g literature review, metholdogy, data analysis and dicusssion). If you wish to get feedback on your dissertation chapters before final submission, please email the draft to your supervisor. The full draft of your disseration must be submitted to your supervisor no later than a month before the due date.
- No late submissions will be allowed. See the deadline for submission in the important submission dates section of this guide. In the case of mitigating circumstances, please refer to the University policy on mitigating circumstances which is available on the module page on NILE and the University website.
- The role of Turnitin is to help tutors detect plagiarism by showing the percentage of text matching. However, this is not an indication that a student committed plagiarism. Turnitin creates a report called “the originality report” showing this percentage of text matching in a student’s work. For more information about how to avoid plagiarism and the role of Turnitin, attend the research methods training and see the module page on NILE. Students are allowed to see the originality report only on the due date
- Module Schedule
All sessions will run Online live podcast using Collaborate Ultra. All sessions will be recoded, and made available to students shortly after. All students will have access to all classes. A doodle will be send to students to choose a preferred time to organise class.
| 18th October 2019 | Welcome talk |
| 25th October 2019
|
Introduction to module and course timetable
What is a Dissertation and producing a good dissertation Choosing Your Dissertation Topic Marking criteria SMART dissertation management: aims and objectives and research questions |
| 1st November 2019 | Doing a critical literature review
Working with the Literature |
| 8th November 2019 | Philosophy of research
Research design- Sampling Mixed methods |
| 15th November 2019
|
Qualitative research overview
Research interviews Data analysis |
| 22nd November 2019 | Quantitative Research overview:
Questionnaire design – Use of Monkey survey Introduction to online resources for data collection |
| 29th November 2019 | Testing the feasibility of your study; testing the availability of your data using DataStream and Orbis |
| 6th December 2019
|
Validity and reliability in research
Research ethics Developing a research proposal Managing your supervisor and the learning agreement |
| March – April 2020 | Data collection – DataStream and Orbis |
| March -April 2020 | Data analysis and the use of SPSS
Descriptive statistics |
| March – April 2020 | Data analysis and the use of SPSS
Advanced statistics |
Important Submission deadlines
Please find below the submission deadline for your assessents
| 09 December 2019 | Submit your research topic on NILE |
| 16 December 2020 | Expected date of appointment of supervisors |
| 27 January 2020 | Submit Research Proposal and ethics form – Annex 1 on Nile |
| 21 August 2020 | Suggested date to submit draft dissertation to supervisors for feedback |
| 21 Sep 2020 | Final Dissertation submission on NILE |
| 30 Jan 2021 TBC | Dissertation resit submission on NILE |
Role of dissertation students and supervisor
| Student | Supervisor | |
| Arrange
Scheduled Meetings |
Agree a schedule of meetings, deadlines and adhere to them. | |
| Prepare for scheduled meetings | Use supervisory time effectively by preparing tutorial in advance. | Read draft work and provide formative feedback, engage in other appropriate preparatory work. Drafts will be reviewed up to 14 days before due date. |
| Attend supervision meetings | Keep appointments which have been arranged
|
Provide guidance |
| Record
Supervision meetings |
Take notes of supervisory meetings | Record formal supervision meetings (ad hoc meetings in corridors do not count) |
| Manage any problems | For example: ensure work is authentic (academic integrity), that ethical issues are addressed | Contact students who (e.g.) Fail to attend arranged sessions (cause-for-concern)
Referencing / plagiarism
|
| Seek ethical approval where appropriate | Where work involves research with living subjects (human/animal), ensure that ethical approval is obtained prior to commencing the research | Ensure students have prompt access to suitable ethics procedures at faculty level, appropriate to the nature of the work being undertaken. Ensure that no work with living subjects commences prior to clearance being obtained. |
TEACHING, LEARNING, & ASSESSMENT ACTIVITIES
| Learning, Teaching and Assessment activities | Study hours |
| Contact hours: (total)
Comprising face-to-face and online contact hours as follows: |
16 |
| Face-to-face (total) – this may include the following:
– Individual Supervision |
8
|
| · Online contact hours (total) (comprising online activities with mediated tutor input) |
8 |
| Guided independent study hours (including hours for assessment preparation) |
584 |
| Module Total | 600 |
ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE
| Assessment Activity | Learning Outcomes | Weighting (%) | ||
| Code | Assessment Type | Assessment Deliverables | ||
| AS1 | Research Proposal | 2000 word proposal | a, b, c, e, f, g | 15% |
| DI | Dissertation/ Report | 13000 word final dissertation or project report | a, b, c, d, e, f, g | 85% |
USE OF NILE
NILE is the University electronic learning site. You are expected to check your NILE site regularly. Important announcements will be posted on NILE. All the teaching materials including teaching notes, seminars exercises, useful web links, past exams, and videos are available on NILE. You are also required to submit your assessments through Turnitin on NILE
FINM025 Rubic- Proposal
| Criteria | No Submission / no evidence | Fail | Pass | Merit | Distinction |
| Introduction (20%) a) Identify a research topic, develop aims and objectives justified through reference to appropriate literature. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 9.9 points
There is some evidence of a systematic, coherent and analytical engagement with key aspects of the field of study including familiarity with the current literature developments. The topic is ill-defined, little or no rationale for selection of the problem. The introduction falls well short of the threshold standards. There is no clear justification of the research purpose. Aims and objectives are not defined and not justified. |
10 to 11.9 points
The introduction is relevant and shows a greater degree of capability in relevant specialised skills. The topic is barely introduced; provides a rationale for selection but is not persuasive. Work of capable quality, which clearly demonstrates knowledge in and a critical awareness of current issues. The research questions, aims and objectives show a good understanding of the field of research. |
12 to 13.9 points
The introduction is clear and demonstrates a greater degree of capability and meets research expectations. The topic is introduced; provides a brief rationale for selection of the problem that is persuasive; provides a statement of the problem, its meaning, importance and theories behind it. Includes a clear research question, aim and objectives. Statement of the research purpose and the overall reasons for the study are precise and related to the background of the problem. |
14 to 20 points
Exceptional Standard. The introduction is clear, exemplary and provides evidence of a complete understanding of the project expectations. The topic is properly and concisely introduced; provides a brief and persuasive rationale for the selection of the problem. Includes a very clear research question, aim and objectives. Clear demonstration of the research purpose which is clearly linked to the background of the problem. |
| Literature Review (30%) b) Critically analyse a wide range of literature in accounting and finance. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 14.5 points
Work of poor quality that is based on minimal understanding, application or effort. Some evidence of a systematic, coherent and analytical engagement with aspects of the field of the research, including familiarity with the current literature. Poor volume of up-to-date literature that are from credible sources. Selects inappropriate theoretical framework. |
15 to 17.9 points
A quality critical literature review demonstrating a limited understanding. A critical awareness of current issues, the theoretical knowledge at the forefront of the field of study. Insufficient application of up-to-date literature from academic sources. Literature used is related to the research questions and the research question. |
18 to 20.9 points
A commendable quality critical literature review. Good use of up-to-date literature from both academic and credible sources. Literature used is related to the research questions and the research question is properly designed and clear. Identifies relevant theoretical framework(s). |
21 to 30 points
Excellent and thorough summary of the literature review. Distinguished quality of critical literature review that is up-to-date literature from both academic and credible sources. Literature used is related to the research questions. Clearly identifies relevant theoretical framework(s); provides a rationale. |
| Research Methodology, Design, and Methods (30%) c) Synthesise and critique the different methodological frameworks that influence research to inform and justify a research methodology. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 14.5 points
Poor methodology. Fails to introduce the research methodology, research design and methods. Includes no researchable questions. Lacks connection between research questions, purpose and problem. No reference to the type of method used. Vaguely describes data analysis procedures. |
15 to 17.9 points
A quality but brief research method section which introduces methodology, research design and methods briefly. Lists researchable question(s). Makes a connection between research methods and questions, purpose and problem. Includes a vague and non-persuasive justification for the type of research used. Describes a few of the procedures used to conduct the study for sample recruitment, informed consent, maintaining data. |
18 to 20.9 points
A commendable preview of the methods used for this study which introduces research methodology, research design and methods briefly but clearly describes methods. Lists researchable question(s). Makes a clear and compelling connection between research methodology, methods, and research design to address the questions. Describes if research is qualitative or quantitative or mixed methods and provides adequate justification. |
21 to 30 points
Exceptionally clear explanation and justification of research philosophy, approach and methods for data collection. Describes if research is qualitative or quantitative or mixed methods. Provides a clear justification for selection of type in relation to research problem and research questions. Includes a proper discussion of research design, the definition of population, sample size, determination and sample techniques used. Clearly describes the procedures used to conduct the study for sample recruitment, informed consent, maintaining data. |
| Significance of proposed research , Research limitations and direction for future research (10%) e) Develop independent working and project management skills. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 4.9 points
Poor communicated and evaluated preliminary statement of what they may find or demonstrate by having undertaken the research, the importance of this work, limitations and areas for further research development. |
5 to 5.9 points
A quality critical preliminary statement of what they may find or demonstrate by having undertaken the research, the importance of this work, limitations and areas for further research development. |
6 to 6.9 points
A commendable preliminary statement of what they may find or demonstrate by having undertaken the research, the importance of this work, limitations and areas for further research development. |
7 to 10 points
Distinguished well communicated and evaluated preliminary statement of what they may find or demonstrate by having undertaken the research, the importance of this work, limitations and areas for further research development. |
| Professional / academic quality (10%) f) Initiate a reflective and independent approach to learning in managing an extended project. g) Communicate information and present complex arguments, clearly and accurately in a manner suited to an academic audience. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 4.9 points
Poor evidence is included or provided but missing in some very important aspects |
5 to 5.9 points
A quality evidence which clearly demonstrates evidence of achieving the requirements of the learning outcomes |
6 to 6.9 points
Commendable high quality, demonstrating evidence which is rigorous and convincing, appropriate to the task or activity |
7 to 10 points
Distinguishing very high quality, demonstrating evidence which is strong, robust and consistent, appropriate to the task or activity |
FINM025 Rubic- Final Dissertation
| Criteria | No Submission / no evidence | Fail | Pass | Merit | Distinction |
| Introduction (10%) a) Identify a research topic, develop aims and objectives justified through reference to approriate literature. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 4.9 points
Poor introduction. There is some evidence of a systematic, coherent and analytical engagement with key aspects of the field of study including familiarity with the current topic developments. The topic is ill-defined, little or no rationale for selection of the problem. The introduction falls well short of the threshold standards. There is no clear justification of the research purpose. Aims and objectives are not defined and not justified. |
5 to 5.9 points
A quality introduction which shows a greater degree of capability in relevant specialised skills. Topic is barely introduced; provides a rationale for selection but is not persuasive. Work of capable quality, which clearly demonstrates knowledge in and a critical awareness of current issues. The research questions, aims and objectives show a good understanding of the field. A description of the methodology used in the research. An outline of the structure of the dissertation is given. |
6 to 6.9 points
A commendable introduction which demonstrates a greater degree of capability and meets research expectations. Topic is introduced; provides a brief rationale for selection of the problem that is persuasive; provides a statement of the problem, its meaning, importance and theories behind it. Clear research question, aim and objectives. Statement of the research purpose and the overall reasons for the study are precise and related to the background of the problem. A good description of the methodology used in the research. A clear outline of the structure of the dissertation is included. |
7 to 10 points
Exceptional Standard. The introduction is clear, exemplary and provides evidence of a complete understanding of the project expectations. Topic is properly and concisely introduced; provides a brief and persuasive rationale for selection of the problem, its meaning, importance and theories behind it. Work of distinguished quality, which is evidenced by an authoritative, comprehensive, detailed review of the topic. Very clear research question, aim and objectives. Clear demonstration of the research purpose and is clearly linked to the background of the problem. A concise description of the methodology used in the research. Very clear of the dissertation structure is mentioned |
| Literature Review (25%) b) Critically analyse a wide range of literature in accounting and finance. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 9.9 points
Poor quality literate review chapter that is based on minimal understanding, application or effort. Some evidence of a systematic, coherent and analytical engagement with aspects of the field of the research, including familiarity with the current literature. Poor volume of up-to-date literature that are from credible sources. Selects inappropriate theoretical framework. Inaccurate definition and description of the theoretical framework with no connection to the problem. Does not examine any assumptions of theoretical. There is no rationale for hypotheses/ interview and/or survey. |
10 to 14.9 points
A quality critical literature review chapter, however, the LR demonstrates a limited understanding. A critical awareness of current issues, the theoretical knowledge at the forefront of the field of study. Insufficient application of up-to-date literature from academic sources. Literature used is related to the research questions and the research question is clear. Identifies and analyses the theoretical framework(s) without a clear connection to the problem. The rationale for hypotheses/ interview and/or survey questions is very limited and unclear. Includes a brief summary of the literature. |
15 to 17.4 points
A commendable quality critical literature review chapter which demonstrates a detailed and systematic knowledge and understanding in specialised areas, informed by a critical awareness of current issues and theoretical insights of the field of study. Good use of up-to-date literature from both academic and credible sources. Literature used is related to the research questions and the research question is properly designed and clear. Identifies relevant theoretical framework(s). Connects theoretical framework(s) to the problem and uses it to analyse the problem. The hypotheses/ interview and/or survey questions are generally addressed however the rationale for development is limited with very little reference to published work. Includes a complete summary of the literature, with tentative conclusions and a brief transition to methods chapter. |
17.5 to 25 points
Distinguished quality of critical literature review chapter that is evidenced by an authoritative comprehensive, detailed, systematic knowledge and understanding of area of study. Work is characterised by strong technical expertise to high professional quality, ability to work with creativity and originality using accurate knowledge and insights at the forefront of the field of study. Sufficient and up-to-date literature from both academic and credible sources. Literature used is related to the research questions and the research question must be properly designed and clear. Clearly identifies relevant theoretical framework(s); provides a rationale. Insightfully connects theoretical framework(s) to the problem and uses framework(s) to analyse the problem. The rationale for hypotheses/ interview and/or survey questions are well supported with the literature. Excellent and thorough summary from literature review with robust transition to methods chapter. |
| Research Methodology, Design, and Methods (20%) c) Synthesise and critique the different methodological frameworks that influence research to inform and justify a research methodology. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 9.9 points
Poor quality research methods chapter. Fails to re-introduction to the purpose of the study including research problem and/or question; transition to methods not included. Fails to introduce the research methodology, research design and methods. Includes no researchable questions. Lacks connection between research questions, purpose and problem. No reference to the type of method used. Vaguely describes data analysis procedures. Does not tie procedures closely to research questions. No critique of the methodological literature. |
10 to 11.9 points
A quality research methods chapter which Re-introduces purpose of the study including research problem and/or question; transition to methods vague, if included. Introduces methodology, research design and methods briefly. Lists researchable question(s). Makes a connection between research methods and questions, purpose and problem. Vague and non-persuasive justification for the type of research used. Describes a few of the procedures used to conduct the study for sample recruitment, informed consent, maintaining data. Describes only a few of the details of the protocols and steps taken during data collection. A few questions remain about the procedures and protocols. Discusses methodological literature with an incomplete connection to the chosen method. |
12 to 13.9 points
A commendable research methods chapter which re-introduces the purpose of the study including research problem and question; transition to methods included. Introduces research methodology, research design and methods briefly but clearly describes methods. Lists researchable question(s). Makes a clear and compelling connection between research methodology, methods, and research design to address the questions. Describes if research is qualitative or quantitative or mixed methods and provides adequate justification. Describes most of the details of the protocols and steps taken during data collection. Discusses existing methodological literature, makes the connection to the chosen method. |
14 to 20 points
Excellent methodology chapter which clearly and succinctly re-introduces purpose of the study including research problem and question; smooth transition to methods is included. Demonstrates advanced control, understanding, depth and insight in the application of relevant research methodology, techniques and design. Clear explanation of research aims and questions. Exceptionally clear explanation and justification of research philosophy, approach and methods for data collection. Describes if research is qualitative or quantitative or mixed methods. Provides a clear justification for selection of type in relation to research problem and research questions. A Proper discussion of research design, definition of population, sample size, determination and sample techniques used. Clearly describes the procedures used to conduct the study for sample recruitment, informed consent, maintaining data. Critiques methodological literature and justifies the selection of research methods. |
| Data Analysis, Results and Discussion (20%) d) Collect, analyse and interpret data in the context of existing literature. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 9.9 points
Poor quality analysis and discussion chapter which displays a low level of research methodology, interpretation, findings and layout that it can be regarded as unacceptable. No re-introduction to purpose of the study including research problem and/or question; transition to results not included. Inappropriate analysis of data not connected to research question and purpose. Inaccessible and confusing presentation of results; a very limited variety of charts, table or data displays included. Findings not interpreted correctly and are not supported by evidence nor linked to research questions. Does not identify the limitations of the study. |
10 to 11.9 points
A quality analysis and discussion chapter which re-introduces purpose of the study including research problem and/or question; transition to results vague, if included. Satisfactory understanding of the significance of the research and a reasonably effective interpretation and application of the methodology. Shows limited awareness of the study’s applicability to the topic. Appropriate analysis of most of the data, vaguely connected to research question and purpose. Somewhat accessible and understandable presentation of results; limited variety of charts, table or data displays included. Findings interpreted and sometimes supported by evidence and vaguely linked to research questions. Shows a lack of awareness of at least one major area of limitation in the research methodology and/or findings. Does not recognise how the current study may be improved. |
12 to 13.9 points
A commendable analysis and discussion chapter which re-introduces purpose of the study including research problem and question; transition to results included. Adequate knowledge and understanding of the significance of the research. Good organisation and application of research methodology. Demonstrates high levels of understanding and originality in the analysis (theoretical and/or empirical) of the research findings. Appropriate analysis of data, connected to the research question and purpose. Accessible and understandable presentation of results; a variety of charts, table or data displays included. Findings interpreted correctly and supported by evidence and address research questions. There is evidence of personal insights and experience into the field. The research findings make a significant contribution to the knowledge base of the discipline and field of study. Identifies limitations of the study. |
14 to 20 points
Distinguished analyses and discussion chapter which clearly re-introduces the purpose of the study including research problem and question; smooth transition to results included. Demonstrates advanced control, understanding, depth and insight in the application of relevant research methodology, techniques and analysis. Includes a comprehensive discussion of the analysis of results from many different perspectives in a scholarly and objective manner. Appropriate and thoughtful analysis of data, clearly connected to the research question and purpose. Excellent and clearly understandable presentation of results; a variety of charts, table or data displays included. Findings interpreted correctly and directly supported by evidence and clearly address research questions. Conclusions follow from results, are accurately described in detail in terms of data analysis, and show methodological and conceptual rigour. Designs changes to study that would account for the above-mentioned limitations. |
| Conclusion and Recommendation (15%) e) Develop independent working and project management skills. f) Initiate a reflective and independent approach to learning in managing an extended project. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 7.4 points
Poor quality conclusion chapter of the study including research problem and/or question, however, the transition to the conclusion not included. fails to reach a logical/valid conclusion. The final summary fails to communicate the purpose and findings of the study, and the use of terminology is confusing. No mention of the research aims and objectives, limitations and how they were addressed. No evidence of recommendations for future studies. No attention paid to implications. |
7.5 to 8.9 points
A quality conclusion chapter which includes research problem and/or question; transition to conclusion vague, if included. The conclusions are not in all respects logical and valid, and they are communicated with only partial success. The final summary does not communicate the purpose and findings of the study. Mention of the research aims and objectives, limitations. Recommendations for future studies are sometimes appropriate but not clearly linked to findings/outcomes. |
9 to 10.4 points
A commendable conclusion chapter which includes the research problem and question; transition to conclusion included. The conclusions are logical and valid. The conclusions are communicated clearly and, where applicable, they are linked. The final summary communicates the purpose and findings of the study. Conclusions follow from the results and are explained in terms of the analysis of the data. Mention of the research aims and objectives, limitations and how they were addressed. Recommendations for future studies are appropriate and linked to findings/outcomes. Implications for policy/practice is included. |
10.5 to 15 points
Distinguished conclusion chapter which includes the purpose of the study including research problem and question; smooth transition to conclusion included. The conclusions are logical and valid and show a strong awareness of the authoritative published literature. The conclusions are clearly communicated and evaluated and, where applicable. The final summary is relevant and communicates the purpose and findings of the study in clearly understandable terms. Mention of the research aims and objectives, limitations and how they were addressed. Recommendations for future studies are insightful, appropriate and linked to findings/outcomes. Implications for policy/practice included. Implications linked to the data. |
| Professional / academic quality (10%) g) Communicate information and present complex arguments, clearly and accurately in a manner suited to an academic audience. | 0 to 0 points
Work submitted is of no academic value/nothing submitted |
1 to 4.9 points
Poor quality evidence included or provided but missing in some very important aspects. |
5 to 5.9 points
Quality work which clearly demonstrates evidence of achieving the requirements of the learning outcomes. |
6 to 6.9 points
Work of high quality, demonstrating evidence which is rigorous and convincing, appropriate to the task or activity. |
7 to 10 points
Work of excellent quality, demonstrating evidence which is strong, robust and consistent, appropriate to the task or activity |
Masters dissertation Topic submission form [Select Date]
(Appendix 1)
| Student Name | Student No | ||
| Student Email | |||
| Have you discussed your topic with a tutor? (Yes No) | |||
| Was your topic approved? (Yes/ No) | |||
| What is your estimated deadline for submitting your draft | |||
Dissertation Topic
Indicate the proposed title of your study (Maximum 30-words)
This activity has the following subtasks:
2. Why is this topic relevant, important or interesting?
Use citations and references to support your answer
2. How your topic relates to past research in this field?
Indicate the link to previous research with reference to published work.
3. What are the main concepts and theories that could be relevant to your topic?
Indicate the concepts and theories that are relevant to your topic
4. What could be the appropriate methodology for your topic?
Indicate which method will be used quantitative/ qualitative- secondary /primary data and how you intend to collect data and why? Do you intend to use statics model for data analyses? Are you familiar with your proposed chosen method for data collection and analyses? If not how are you planning to overcome these challenges?
5. Will your topic require ethical approval?
Explain if your research will require ethical approval? and how you intend to approach the participants?
6. Lists at least 7 key references that are related to your work?
Include an indicative list of 7 key references that are directly line.
Initial Topic Approval
Consult a tutor that you think is expert in your topic and ask them for their initial approval of the topic.
| Tutor Name:
|
Initial Feedback:
|
Date:
|
Post Graduate Dissertations FINM025
Writing guidelines (Appendix 2)
| Dissertation | Criteria |
| Proposal
(Appendix 2) |
– A research problem (i.e. gaps in the literature)? – Aims and objective/ hypotheses? – A mini literature review of the of the topic including a review of theories and findings? – The methods that will be used for data collection, and how data will be analysed? – The outcome of the research and limitation?
|
| Chapter One: Introduction |
|
| Chapter Two: Literature Review |
|
|
|
|
| Chapter Three: Research Methodology, Design, and Methods |
|
| Chapter Four: Data Analysis, Results, and Discussion |
|
| Chapter Five: Conclusion and Recommendation |
|
| References/
Bibliography |
Please keep in mind that academic integrity cannot be compromised. If a student committed plagiarism, his/her work will be submitted to the misconduct committee for a decision. Penalties range from a reduction of the grade to dismissal from the programme of study depending on the degree of the offence.
|
Appendix 3- FINM025
Accounting and Finance Proposal Writing guidelines
| Proposal | Criteria |
| 1.
Introduction and background (Terms of Reference) |
– Did the student provide the underlying rationale for this research? And research gap?
– Was the student able to identify how this study will contribute to the literature/ practice? And, what is the research dissertation to achieve?
– Did the student outline the research question? Alternatively, proposition(s) or hypothesis? – Did student clearly indicate the aim and objectives of this research? (Objectives should commence with a verb – to ascertain, to establish, to recommend, etc.) |
| Research Rationale (Statement of Problem)
|
|
| The purpose of the Research (What is the study trying to achieve?) | |
|
Research question (or propositions or hypotheses)
|
|
| 2.
Critical Literature Review (Indication of the literature that informs your research)
Theoretical frameworks (Role of theory) |
–
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – # – Did the student provide a preliminary, critical evaluation of seminal and previous research? Addressing What are the key studies in your topic area and how these are related to the issues you intend to look at in your research? – – – –
– Did the student identify the working concepts/models and theoretical frameworks that are used to guide the research? The student should address What is the role of the theory in research? Moreover, what ways the theories will be used?
Note: This section provides an introduction to the literature search chapter of the dissertation. |
| 3. Methodology and methods | – Did the student provide and outline how they plan to go about doing the research? |
|
Research Design (description of proposed research – type of study)
Methods for data collection
|
– Did the student include a justification of the methodological approach they intend to employ? and the implications of this methodology?
– Did the student include a clear and precise explanation of how the data for the study will be collected, what methods will be utilised? Support the terms and techniques identified with academic references and explanations.
-This section should make reference to sampling methods and limitations of the study. Refer to the range and types of data that are available when conducting academic research. |
|
Research Context (e.g. industry sector, organisation)
|
–
– –
– Did the student provide the context of thier proposed research? Key features, characteristics! Who will be studied? How many? How will they be selected (i.e. sampling)? |
|
Procedure (i.e. what happened from the participants’ perspective)
Methods for data analysis Ethical considerations |
– Was the student able to anticipate any problem they might have in implementing the methods. E.g How will they will access people? How they collect questionnaire data?
– Was the student able to ensure that their research meets the ethical standards of the University? (See the ethics form on NILE site). Did the student address how they will protect confidentiality? |
| 4. Discussion Significance of proposed research (Research Contribution)
Research limitations and direction for future research
|
Did the student provide a preliminary statement of what they may find or demonstrate by having undertaken the research? Moreover, what is the importance of this work?
Was the student able to envisage the study limitations and identify areas for further research development?
Note: All research has limitations, and you will certainly be limited by the time available to do this work. The scope of a dissertation is limited, and there may be an area that would benefit from further research, for example, a different region or business sector might provide different outcomes to strengthen or generate additional insights into your selected area. |
| 5. Provisional work schedule | – Did the student include a timetable for completing the research indicating the tasks necessary to complete each segment? Don’t forget to include slippage time. |
| 6. References | – Did the student provide a correct referencing with a comprehensive citation and reference list? |
