Dissertation (MA) checklist
Content
01 Introduction
02 Research Question
03 Hypothesis
04 Theoretical Framework
05 Methodology
06 Sources
07 Originality
- 01 Introduction
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Every dissertation is different and every research area has its own styles and conventions, so this checklist is offered as a general guide only. Always check with your supervisor for guidance and advice about the appropriateness of your research question, design, reading, etc. The following basic elements are, however, usually essential for achieving a passing grade. How you formulate and present them depends on the type of research you are doing, the conventions in that field, and your own individual style.
[Back to top] - 02 Research Question
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This should be clearly and concisely formulated and situated in relation to established literature/debates in the area. It should focus on a specific/exact question/problem to which you can reasonably expect to offer a specific response within the scope of a dissertation.
[Back to top] - 03 Hypothesis
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This should be formulated before you start your research and state what you expect to be the answer to your question. It should encapsulate the point of the dissertation.
[Back to top] - 04 Theoretical Framework
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This should indicate the theoretical/analytical underpinnings of the dissertation: the theories, concepts, perspectives that you will use to defend your hypothesis.
[Back to top] - 05 Methodology
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This refers to: the method(s) you will use; the way(s) in which you will collect, interpret and use information and data (e.g. surveys, interviews, statistical analysis, textual analysis, comparison, etc.).
[Back to top] - 06 Sources
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You should already have checked the availability and appropriateness of the sources you intend to use. These would normally include the most important and relevant literature in the field; recent journal articles; the source of your theoretical/analytical framework; general/historical background material; substantive empirical/quantitative material; data or information you have collected yourself; materials for comparison, etc.
[Back to top] - 07 Originality
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Some aspect(s) of the dissertation should be original. This could be the presentation of new empirical material, a new interpretation of existing material, the application of an existing theoretical or analytical perspective to a new area, the demonstration of a new problem/question that arises from existing research, etc.
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