BM634 – Dissertation |
CW1: Dissertation 10,000–12,000 word +/-10%.
Purpose
The dissertation constitutes an independent research project that investigates a specific topic, with the expected outcome being answers to carefully crafted research questions. The dissertation must be submitted in the form of a formal thesis. This thesis serves to demonstrate the researcher’s proficiency in gathering and analysing data, as well as their in-depth understanding of the chosen subject area. Formative feedback is provided through regular consultations with the dissertation supervisor and comments on draft chapters.
Students are encouraged to select a topic of personal interest, provided that the core focus aligns with their single, major, or joint field of study. Ideally, the topic should be framed as a research question, enabling students to present an argument and engage critically with the benefits and limitations, as well as challenges, exceptions, and comparisons within the topic area.
Task
Students are required to design and conduct an independent research project and produce a dissertation of 10,000–12,000 words (+/-10%) based on the undertaken research. The dissertation must include the following elements:
- Title
- Abstract
- Introduction
- A detailed presentation of the identified research problem.
- A rationale for conducting the research, including an explanation of who might benefit from the study and how they would benefit.
- Clear articulation of the research aim and objectives.
- Literature review
- A comprehensive explanation of where the investigation fits within the broader academic literature, potentially contributing to an ongoing debate.
- A critical evaluation of carefully selected concepts, theories, and ideas that can inform and advance the investigation.
- An analytical discussion of material drawn from a wide range of relevant academic journal articles and secondary research sources.
- Development of a theoretical or conceptual framework to guide the primary research process.
- All sources must be referenced using the Harvard referencing system.
- Methodology
- Explanation of the research approach and design.
- Justification for the selected methods and presentation of data collection instruments.
- Description of participants and sampling methods (for quantitative research).
- Identification of participants and the criteria for their selection (for qualitative research).
- Consideration of ethical issues identified and measures taken to address them.
- Discussion of validity and reliability for quantitative research.
- Consideration of credibility and reflexive analysis for qualitative research.
- Results
- Presentation of findings in appropriate formats such as graphs, charts, or statistical analyses (without interpretation for quantitative research).
- Discussion
- Interpretation of findings, including an analysis of the results presented in the Results section.
- Results and discussion
- For qualitative research, this section may combine the presentation and interpretation of findings.
- Conclusions and limitations of the research
- A summary of the research findings, their implications, and a reflection on the study’s limitations.
- Recommendations
- Where applicable, actionable recommendations derived from the research findings.
- References
- All sources should be cited in accordance with the Harvard referencing style.
- Appendices
- Tables of results for quantitative research.
- Transcripts, interview notes, or qualitative analyses.
- Ethics documentation, including:
- Participant information sheets.
- Participant consent forms.
- Email templates and relevant correspondence.
- A reflective summary of career skill development (maximum two pages).
- Supervisor meeting notes.
- A Gantt chart outlining the project timeline.
- It is recommended to retain all work in progress and raw data until the degree certificate is awarded.
Key independent learning activities, employability skills, and stretch activities:
- Develop the ability to design and construct a business research project.
- Construct a theoretical or conceptual framework from reputable literature using academic databases and other credible sources.
- Analyse and interpret data and information using quantitative and/or qualitative methods.
- Formulate professional communication strategies to approach research participants and secure access.
- Conduct professional-level primary research activities, including but not limited to, focus groups, one-to-one interviews, and observation-based research.
- Work independently to produce a substantial piece of academic work supporting their degree.
Exhibit junior executive-level professionalism, including relevant knowledge, skills, and behaviours
This assignment has been designed to provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your achievement of the following module learning outcomes: |
LO1-Critically review and analyse literature pertaining to the topic area selected for the overall research aim and objectives of the Dissertation |
LO2-Critically evaluate the performance of the primary research tool and identify weaknesses in the design, execution and findings produced by the research tool and make recommendations for future research opportunities |
LO3-Critically analyse the primary research findings in relation to theories and concepts to arrive at a set of evaluative conclusions and recommendations, where appropriate |
LO4-Demonstrate transferable skills including time management, project management, listening, negotiation, written communication skills, independent learning and advanced research skills |
GET THIS DISSERTATION COMPLETED FOR £449 WITH NO HIDDEN OR EXTRA CHARGES. 100% ORIGINAL WORK IS GUARANTEED. THE WORK WILL BE DELIVERED IN DRAFTS!