Main sections
of your dissertation:
 Statement
of your theory.
Literature Review.
Methodology.
The Data Analysis Section.
Summary of your findings.
Examples of dissertations.
Conclusions/recommendations.
Your final paper is composed of two main areas:
1. The Final Paper Proposal (Chapters 1 - 3)
2. The Final Paper (Chapters 1 - 5)
Proposal Preparation
CHAPTER 1:
Statement of your theory
This chapter introduces your dissertation to the reader.
It includes a statement of the problem, an overview
and significance of the study [its purpose, and application(s)]
and finally, how and why it is important. In this chapter,
the scope of the study is stated while a detailed description
of what you wish to prove or
demonstrate interests the reader even if he doesn't
agree with you.
CHAPTER 2:
Literature Review
In this chapter, you strengthen your demonstration with
the help of research and a review of related literature
(i.e., past research and writings and their impact on
the study). Research is done on the writings of other
authors who have explored the same subject. All perspectives
are presented, including the positive and negative aspects.
CHAPTER 3:
Methodology
The research design is explained in this chapter
along with surveys, statistical procedures, tests, comparisons,
questionnaires and any special tools or interviewing
techniques used. For historical or case study methodologies,
a description of current events (e.g., current work-related
projects) is provided.
Summary of Proposal:
1. Title Page.
2. Table of contents.
3. Chapter 1, 2 and 3 completed.
4. References or Bibliography.
Remember - your first three chapters are not yet final.
They are open to revision and would only be considered
complete when you finish the paper. Completing your
final paper finalizes the process begun with the proposal
by writing Chapters 4 and 5.
CHAPTER 4:
The Data Analysis Section
In this section, you present an overview of your
analysis. You analyze your findings and those factors
that could limit your data.
CHAPTER 5:
Summary, Discussion, and Recommendations
In this last chapter, the results of your study
are stated. Any significant findings directly and precisely
are presented while a conclusion is drawn in the end.
Summary of Final Paper:
1. Title Page.
2. Table of Contents.
3. Abstract.
4. Chapters 1-5.
5. References or bibliography.
|
