Identify and critically discuss appropriate literature sources
1. Introduction to the dissertation
This section aims to provide guidelines and advice to help you to successfully complete your dissertation. By following the information in this guide, you will be able to successfully meet the learning outcomes of the dissertation which include:
- Identify and critically discuss appropriate literature sources
- Identify and critically discuss the applicability of a range of research methodologies and paradigms within a range of disciplines
- Critically evaluate and apply appropriate research tools and techniques
- Appraise the validity and reliability of research
2. What is a dissertation?
The dissertation is a 60-credit module that is expected to be 3 months in duration with up 20 hours of supervision and an indicative 500 hours of independent study. It involves the execution and communication of a piece of investigative academic research which demonstrates an understanding of a specific problem, together with evidence of critical and analytical evaluation.
There are three types of acceptable dissertations, all of which require a literature review. The distinction between the three types comes in the application of material in the literature review.
Type 1 Primary data-based dissertation
Primary data-based dissertations involve students collecting primary data (e.g., resulting from interviews, surveys, focus groups). Here the primary data must be based around the secondary data in that your findings be compared and contrasted with the data presented in the literature.
Type 2 Secondary data-based dissertation
Secondary data-based dissertations require students to find related data which can be further analysed using primarily statistical techniques. The University has data sources, companies and historical macroeconomic time-series data for many countries.
Type 3 Product/service/innovation-based dissertation
Product/service/innovation-based dissertation requires students to develop a new product or service or enhance an existing product or service based on their analysis of secondary data and stakeholder expectations. Such dissertations may be the result of a specific request from an industrial partner. They must follow the normal academic dissertation conventions.
Most students find the dissertation both challenging and rewarding. There will inevitably be ups and downs but by keeping in regular contact with your supervisor you will find that most problems can be overcome before they become too great.
3. The topic
Topics can be generated from a variety of sources, they may be generated from work experience, and they may result from a seminar discussion, newspaper articles, journal article or from a piece of coursework. You will be provided with guidance about acceptable topics but in general you may find the following four steps useful:
