Types of Dissertations Formats

Types of Dissertations

(A) Standard Dissertation
The standard dissertation is the most traditional format consisting of five chapters: introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion. This format allows for an in-depth exploration of a single topic and is common across disciplines in the social sciences and humanities.

(B) Design Thesis
A design thesis involves creating an original work or project such as a film, website, software program, or other creative work. This type of thesis is common in fields like architecture, engineering, graphic design, and the fine arts. The design thesis is accompanied by written documentation that analyzes the design process, reviews relevant literature, and evaluates the outcomes of the project.

(C) Academic Paper
Some programs allow students to submit a compilation of three publishable papers on related topics instead of the standard monograph format. This alternative dissertation consists of an introduction that ties the papers together along with the three papers. It provides experience with publishing but does not allow for as much in-depth exploration of a single topic as the standard dissertation.
The standard dissertation remains the most widely accepted format across disciplines due to its comprehensive examination of a research question. However, alternative formats like the design thesis and academic paper dissertation provide valuable experience for students depending on their field of study and career goals. The key is discussing format options with an advisor to determine the best fit.

Your final dissertation can be presented in one of three formats:

(A) Standard Dissertation
(B) Design Thesis
(C) Academic Paper

For more details on each format, please refer to the “Presentation and Format of the Dissertation” section.

Field Research and Ethics

During your dissertation, you may engage with other organizations and collect data. The University has specific requirements to ensure that your interactions are ethical and appropriate. It’s essential to adhere to these guidelines.

Assignment help – Discuss your plans with your Dissertation Supervisor from the outset and ensure they complete the FET Ethical Review Checklist for Taught Modules specific to your study. If your research involves data collection from external parties, obtain ethical approval before reaching out to anyone outside the University.

Evolving Research Questions and Hypotheses

Research projects typically evolve over time, and it’s a positive sign if your research develops in ways different from your initial intentions. However, maintaining a clear focus and context as your research progresses is crucial. You shouldn’t investigate every interesting tangent but rather concentrate on aspects that contribute to a well-focused research project aligned with your degree and module’s learning outcomes. Your Dissertation Supervisor, with their experience, can help you maintain focus if you keep them informed promptly.

Furthermore, successful dissertations are those you are genuinely invested in, covering topics that matter to you. In addition, the involvement and interest of academics are vital for success. While it may sometimes lead to challenging discussions at the outset, don’t hesitate to seek topic suggestions from your Supervisor or Dissertation Coordinators if you’re struggling.

Tips for Literature Review

Maintain a bibliography as you go.
Record your sources as you discover them, including page numbers for easy reference.
Establish an organizational system from the beginning, such as index cards or computer-based notes.
Make the most of online and library resources.
Engage with librarians, lecturers, and researchers specializing in your topic.
“Snowball” from recent articles and reports to discover more sources.
A. Task 5: Final Dissertation

The final submission is the most critical component, representing 100% of the overall grade. It should provide a comprehensive account of your research, demonstrating your achievement of the module’s learning outcomes. For in-depth details, please review the sections on “Learning Outcomes” and “Presentation and Format of the Dissertation.”

Your dissertation should encompass the following:

An abstract
Table of contents
A section outlining your research questions, aims, and objectives
A section critically appraising current theory, policy, or practice, including references to the latest relevant contextual information/publications (i.e., a Review of Literature)
A section outlining your methodological and analytical approach
A section reporting research outputs in a relevant format, along with critical appraisal and evaluation, considering recent activities by other researchers/practitioners
A section drawing conclusions within the context of your research questions, aims, objectives, and the broader subject matter
A list of references
In appendices, include screenshots of FET Ethical Review Checklist for Taught Modules and a signed Risk Assessment form if applicable.
It’s important to note that references, bibliographies, figure captions, appendices, and similar elements do not contribute to the word count. Ensure that your referencing follows the guidelines outlined for the dissertation. Appendices should only be used for supporting information, and they should be appropriately referenced in the main dissertation text.

It is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the marking criteria to understand what markers look for when assessing your dissertation.

The final submission will be made online via Blackboard. Detailed submission instructions are provided in the “Final Submission of the Dissertation” section.

Presentation and Format of the Dissertation
Your final dissertation can be presented in one of three formats, as previously mentioned. Below are specific guidelines for the “Standard Dissertation.”

A. Standard Dissertation Length

The final Standard Dissertation should be 14,000 words in length, including tables, figures, and photos if any. There is no additional 10% margin beyond this word limit. Please specify the length of your dissertation at the beginning.

The word count pertains solely to the main text and excludes the title page, abstract, table of contents, acknowledgments, dedication, the reference list, and any appendices. Appendices should be used sparingly, avoiding extensive inclusion of material like complete interview transcripts or extensive photocopies from other publications. Critical content should primarily reside in the main text.

Overall Presentation and Format

Your dissertation should have a clear layout with page numbering. It must include a table of contents, and any illustrations, figures, maps, or photos should be appropriately placed within the text on numbered pages, with their respective numbering and titles.

Page formatting guidelines:

Unless otherwise agreed with your Supervisor, pages should be in A4 format with portrait orientation.
The font size for the text body should typically be 11 or 12, depending on the chosen font.
Line spacing should be 1.5 or 2, except for indented quotations and footnotes, where single spacing is recommended.
Left margin should be 40mm, while other margins (top, bottom, and right) should be 25mm.
Consecutively number pages throughout the main text, including any full-page photographs or diagrams.
Title Page

The title page should be placed at the beginning and include the following:

Title of your dissertation
Your full name
Your student number
The degree for which the dissertation is submitted
Your Supervisor’s name
Collaborating establishment(s), if any
Month and year of submission
Following the title page, include a page where you make a declaration regarding the authorship and word count of the dissertation.

Sub-Title Page

This page should include a copyright statement. You may also choose to include a personal dedication on this page.

Abstract (200 words)

Include a single-page summary explaining the purpose, method, results of your dissertation, and your conclusions. The abstract should begin with the title of the work, your name, your program, and the year of submission. Ensure your writing is clear, concise, and impersonal, using no more than 200 words.

Acknowledgments

Acknowledge individuals and organizations that have supported your work in any way, including those who contributed information or provided advice. This section is typically included to express gratitude.

Table of Contents

The table of contents should list page numbers for chapters and main sections, including appendices but not necessarily all subheadings. Page numbers for tables and illustrations should also be included, often in separate lists (e.g., List of Tables and List of Figures/Illustrations).

Main Text

Organize your main text into chapters with headings and subheadings. The first chapter should provide an introduction to the subject area, outline research objectives, specify the central question, and detail the methodology. Additionally, clarify key terms used in your dissertation, state any limitations, and present your original contributions to knowledge.

Subsequent chapters should delve into the topic, grounding your work in existing research. Address questions similar to those in your dissertation, discuss your research methods, analyze data, and evaluate issues that arise from the analysis. The final chapter should draw conclusions, address research questions, and reflect on your findings in relation to prior research. Assignment help – Discuss any normative or prescriptive implications and their significance.

When structuring your dissertation, keep in mind:

The structure should support your central argument and be easily recognizable to the reader.
Maintain a clear, coherent voice throughout.
Use structure as a tool, not a constraint, facilitating the logical development of your argument.
Generally, use 3-6 chapters, dividing them into sections and subsections when helpful.
Include linking paragraphs between chapters and sections.
Consider the implications of your research for future work or policy.
Reflect on the methodology used and its applicability in other contexts.
After completing a chapter, set it aside for a day or two before reviewing it. Work on another chapter, and then revisit the previous one. This process can help identify mistakes and improve explanations.

Tables, Figures, Maps, Photos, Drawings, etc.

These elements are useful for presenting information concisely.
Reproducing any content from published works protected by copyright requires formal permission.
Create tables and figures only when they provide a clear advantage over text.
Ensure all elements have appropriate titles, legends, and necessary footnotes.
Referencing

Your dissertation should acknowledge all sources referenced in the text, including a list of references at the end. Use the Bristol Harvard system for citing sources, following the guidelines available on the library website.

Appendices

Your first appendix should contain the FET Ethical Review Checklist for Taught Modules.

Other appendices can present information relevant to the study but not suitable for inclusion in the main text. Examples include questionnaires, interview protocols, raw data, field notes, and the like. Do not include policy documents or published material in appendices.

Remember to refer to your appendices in the main text to indicate why they have been included.

Summative Feedback and Final Dissertation Marking Criteria

For Task 5: Final Dissertation, you will receive summative written feedback, including marker comments that help you understand how well you have met the defined assessment criteria and areas for improvement if needed. Unconfirmed outcomes by an examining board are considered provisional.

Marking criteria encompass:

Clarity and scope of context
Use of sources and evidence
Research design and methodology
Quality of analysis
Drawing conclusions from the investigation
Quality of presentation and literacy standards
Grading Scale:

90-100: Distinction
80-89: Merit
70-79: Pass
60-69: Bare fail
0-59: Clear fail
Ensure that your dissertation reflects these criteria and is presented in accordance with the provided guidelines for a successful submission.