PowerPoint Presentation
MBA Global
Dissertation
Workshop #4
BS4T01
1
Workshop Content
The findings/discussion chapter – what it is about; why it is included; how to critically relate your findings to your literature review
The introduction and conclusion chapte
The dissertation proposal
CHAPTER 4:
FINDINGS
PRESENTATION OF QUALITATIVE DATA
Structure the findings section on the key themes / sub themes (using sub headings) which you have identified during the research process
Visual representations of qualitative data are not required. Instead you will expected to include respondent transcript quotation to demonstrate each theme or sub theme
Quotes need to be paired down to incorporate enough information for the reader to be able to understand, while removing the excess
It is important that you embed your quotes/examples within your own thoughts. Usually this means writing about the example both before and after. For example: “One of the main topics that my participants highlighted was the need for more teachers in elementary schools. This was a focal point for 7 of my 12 participants, and examples of their responses included: [insert example] by participant 3 and [insert example] by participant 9. The reoccu
ing focus by participants on the need for more teachers demonstrates [insert critical thought here].
By embedding your examples in the context, you are essentially highlighting to the reader what you want them to remember.
CHAPTER 4:
FINDINGS
PRESENTATION OF QUANTITATIVE DATA
Structure your findings chapter in relation to your research questions or your hypotheses (using sub headings)
Quantitative findings are typically based on statistics and you will be expected to make use of graphs, tables, and figures to represent key findings
Don’t forget to add supporting text explaining the context or purpose of graph or figures
CHAPTER 4:
FINDINGS
PRESENTATION OF FINDINGS IN A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW (SLR)
Begin your findings chapter with a table (Critical Review of Selected Article and Identification of Themes).
EXAMPLE EXCERPT
Follow this with an overview of the themes (using sub headings)
CHAPTER 4: FINDINGS
GENERAL COMMENTS
Approximate word count = 1800 words (10% of total word count)
Begin the findings chapter with a short introduction. This should highlight the structure of the chapter (as you generally will do with all chapters)
Do not include any references in your Findings Chapter to academic studies mentioned in Chapter 2 (literature review). Such references will form the basis of Chapter 5 (Discussion)
ANY QUESTIONS?
CHAPTER 5:
DISCUSSION
The structure of your discussion chapter is really going to depend on what you are trying to do and how you have structured your findings.
If you chose to structure your findings by theme (using sub headings), it might make sense to continue this into the analysis chapter.
Other people might structure it according to the research questions / hypotheses. This clearly indicates to the reader how you have addressed your study
Your discussion chapter MUST critically discuss the key findings in relation to the academic studies mentioned in Chapter 2 (Literature Review).
Don’t be afraid to explicitly state whether your findings support or counter existing academic studies, theories, models etc.
Although, the participants have different views on what a converged approach should be, almost all the viewpoints agree with some of the findings of previous studies and views of other scholars as highlighted in the literature review. RP1 and RP2’s understanding of the concept agrees with Hunter (1999); Mazzei XXXXXXXXXXwho are among some of the researchers who have proposed an integrated format that
ing the two together as equal but distinctive functions working as coordinated functions under different departments. On the actual convergence, Mazzei XXXXXXXXXXalso suggested a similar approach with also a suggestion that the framework should aim at preserving the specificity of each of the players within the integration.
On the other hand, although RP6 suggests that none of the proposed frameworks would best define a PR, marketing convergence, his views along with RP3; RP4; and RP5 supports Christensen et al (2005); Laurie and Mortimer (2011); and Niemann-Struweg XXXXXXXXXXChristensen et al XXXXXXXXXXargued that an imposed strict framework to integration will only
ing more confusions and suggest that organisations should em
ace a flexible and open approach which promotes shared understandings and involvement and allows collective ownership. Just like RP6, Laurie and Mortimer XXXXXXXXXXalso said one of the most important consideration when implementing an integrated approach should be business objectives while Niemann-Struweg XXXXXXXXXXproposed that the approach should be driven by the organisational strategic intent.
Discussion Excerpt #1
Discussion Excerpt #2
To examine the nature of the relationship between e-commerce and value creation of online food delivery services due to transaction efficiency, the researcher conducted a Chi-square analysis. The overall outcome was fit statistically due to the p. Value of (0.003<0.05) (Table 10). This means that e-commerce enhances efficiency in food delivery by reducing the shopping time, the high degree of ease in making purchase plan and doing the actual procurement due to less
complexity of the e-commerce platforms such as Deliveroo app.Various authors and models in the literature also argue in support of these outcomes. Based on the results of Daries-Ramon et al. (2019), e-commerce aspects for organisations with easy-to-use platforms associates
ings more efficiency and convenience to the customers. Deloitte XXXXXXXXXXaffirms this by mentioning that online food companies including new deliveries and aggregators enable the consumers to
plan for their eating moments at home and offices, thus increasing efficiency and relationship with the online food distributors.
Similarly, the diffusion of innovation theory (DOI) upholds that an ideal innovation withholds the aspects of compatibility and complexity (Kurnia, Karnali, and Rahim, XXXXXXXXXXUnder compatibility, the innovation seeks to achieve a harmonious pact with the experience, values, and needs of the adopters. Likewise, the complexity facet measures the degree of difficulty and ease of using the technology (Ramanathan et al., XXXXXXXXXXNonetheless, this framework challenges the
usinesses and firms to adopt ‘easy-to-use’ innovations to realise the relative advantage (Kurnia et al., p XXXXXXXXXXMoreover, the internet enables customers to make 24/7 and round the clock ordering that increases the convenience level for the shoppers.
CHAPTER 5: DISCUSSION
GENERAL COMMENTS
Approximate word count = 3600 words (20% of total word count)
Begin the discussion chapter with a short introduction. This should highlight the structure of the chapter (as you generally will do with all chapters)
If you are conducting an interpretivist research project, you can combine Chapter 4 (Findings) and Chapter 5 (Discussion)
ANY QUESTIONS?
CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION
Introduction Structure
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Background and overview of the research topic
Provide background information and context
1.3 Research focus
The research focus does two things: it clarifies the area(s) you intend to research and also the rationale for your study. You should convince readers of the importance / relevance of the dissertation topic
1.4. Research Aim and Objectives
1.4.1 Research Aim
1.4.2 Research Objectives
1.5 Dissertation Overview
Approximate word count = 1800 words
ANY QUESTIONS?
CHAPTER 5 or 6*:
CONCLUSION
Conclusion Structure
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Research Objectives
In this section you specify whether your objectives (you can list these) have been XXXXXXXXXXachieved
5.3 Practitioners Contribution
In this section you should explain how your research project can assist practitioners in your chosen field
5.4 Theoretical Contribution
In this section you should explain how your research project has contributed to relevant underlying theories e.g. reinforced existing research models etc.
5.5 Research Limitations
State the limitation of your research e.g. sample size, data collection method etc.
5.6 Possible Areas for Future Research
These can be linked to point 5.5. e.g. bigger sample, different respondents etc.
5.7 Conclusion
Approximate word count = 1800 words
*depending on whether you have combined the findings and discussion chapters
ANY QUESTIONS?
DISSERTATION
PROPOSAL
What is a dissertation proposal?
Where can I find a copy of the proposal form?
How is the proposal structured?
SECTION 1: Contact details
SECTION 2: Research Topic
SECTION 3: Research Aim and Objectives
SECTION 4: Literature Review
SECTION 5: Research Methodology
SECTION 6: Timetable of Activity
SECTION 7: Ethical considerations
SECTION 8: Student Signature
SECTION 9: Reference List
How and when do I have to submit my proposal form?
What happens if I submit an incomplete proposal?
Can I see a sample proposal?
Submit via Turnitin link
Deadline = 06/04/22
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FINAL ADVICE
On the Learning Materials page, you will find:
Copies of each Dissertation Workshop PPT as well as recording links
Useful journal articles in the ‘Take Your Learning Further’ sections
Video guides for your methodology chapte
Student guides in Word format:
Chapter 3 Methodology Student Guide – for students completing a primary research dissertation
Chapter 2 Methodology Student Guide (Secondary Research) – for students completing a Systematic literature Review dissertation
Information Sheet and Consent Form – for students completing a primary research dissertation
Chapter 4 Findings and Discussion Student Guide
Final Dissertation Sections Student Guide
1. USE THE RESOURCES ON THE BS4T01 BLACKBOARD LEARNING MATERIALS PAGE
EXAMPLE LEARNING MATERIALS
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On the Assessment page, you will find:
Dissertation Structure PPT
Dissertation (BS4T01) Marking Scheme
MBA Global (Sept 2021 cohort) Blank Proposal Form
Sample Dissertation Proposal Form
Sample dissertations in the Dissertation Examples folde
You will also find the Turnitin submission links on this page (TBC)
2. USE THE RESOURCES ON THE BS4T01 BLACKBOARD ASSESSMENT PAGE
3. INITIATE AND MAINTAIN REGULAR COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR DISSERTATION SUPERVISOR
4. DON’T MISS A SUPERVISOR MEETING AND SEND EACH CHAPTER DRAFT ON TIME!
5. DON’T IGNORE ADVICE AND GUIDANCE
NEXT STEPS
Dissertation Workshop #1 (04/10/22)
Dissertation Workshop #2 (05/10/22)
Dissertation Workshop #3 (06/10/22)
Dissertation Proposal Submission (28/10/22)
Dissertation Supervisor Allocation (11/11/22)
Dissertation Submitted (30/04/23)
Dissertation Workshop #4 (07/10/22)
The findings/discussion chapter – what it is about; why it is included; how to critically relate your findings to your literature review
The introduction and conclusion chapte
The dissertation proposal
ANY QUESTIONS?
Workshop Content Recap
PUBLIC / CYHOEDDUS
PUBLIC / CYHOEDDUS
Final Dissertation Sections
This guide provides information regarding the following sections of the dissertation:
· Title Page
· Acknowledgments Page
· Abstract
· Table of Contents
· Chapter 1: Introduction
· Chapter 5 or 6 (depending on whether you have combined the findings and discussion chapters): Conclusion
· Reference List
· Appendices
On page 4 you will also find general advice on the formatting of your dissertation
Please refer to the Dissertation Workshop #1 for details of word counts and grade weighting of chapters.
TITLE PAGE
· The first typed page should contain:
· The title of your disseration
· Your name and USW student numbe
· Your MBA Global cohort name e.g. Sept 2020 cohort
· The month and year of completion
· The following statement:
“This dissertation is submitted in part fulfilment of the Masters in Business Administration Global”
· It should also contain the following signed (this can be printed) and dated declaration:
"I declare that this dissertation is the result of my own independent investigation and that all sources are duly acknowledged in the bibliography."
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PAGE
The second typed page can include an acknowledgements page. This will allow you to thank individuals and organisations that have helped you with your dissertation.
ABSTRACT
· The third typed page should contain an abstract. This should normally be no more than one page long (max 500 words) and should cover all aspects of the dissertation including the conclusions.
· Have a look at the abstracts on the journal articles which you have read and/or seek guidance.
· An abstract is similar to an executive summary in that it should summarise the key elements of your dissertation to the reader.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The fourth page should include a table of contents giving chapter and section headings and page numbers. You should include a list of figures such as diagrams and tables after the contents page. Top Tip: Use Microsoft Word’s table of contents function
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Your introduction is the opening chapter or a starting point of your dissertation. The main purpose of writing a dissertation introduction is to achieve these basic goals:
· Introduce your topic and purpose/scope of your study i.e. state your research aim
· Provide background information and context. Try to convince readers of the dissertation topics relevance. For example:
· why is your dissertation topic worthy of further study?
· Is there a research gap in our understanding of the topic?
· Is there a topical or practical problem which your research can help address?
· Follow this up with the specific focus on your research. For example:
· Which geographical area are you researching?
· What demographics or communities are you investigating?
· What time period does your research cover?
· What specific themes does your dissertation focus on?
· Give an overview of the dissertation’s structure
Approximate word count = 1800 words
CHAPTER 5 or 6*: CONCLUSION
5.1 Introduction
Mention the overall contribution of your study
5.2 Research Objectives
In this section you specify whether your objectives (you can list these) have been achieved
5.3 Practitioners Contribution
In this section you should explain how your research project can assist practitioners in your chosen field
5.4 Theoretical contribution
In this section you should explain how your research project has contributed to relevant underlying theories e.g. reinforced existing research models, added potential new dimensions to cu
ent theory etc.
5.5 Research Limitations
In this section you should state the limitations of your research e.g., sample size, data collection method etc.
5.6 Possible Areas for Future Research
These can be linked to Section 5.5. e.g. bigger sample, different respondents etc.