How to Grade a Dissertation: Table 2: Some Dimensions of the Different Components of the Generic Dissertation
The following dimensions emerged from the analysis of the results of the study described in this article.
Component 1: Introduction
The introduction
• Includes a problem statement
• Makes clear the research question to be addressed
• Describes the motivation for the study
• Describes the context in which the question arises
• Summarizes the dissertation’s findings
• Discusses the importance of the findings
• Provides a roadmap for readers
Component 2: Literature Review
The review
• Is comprehensive and up to date
• Shows a command of the literature
• Contextualizes the problem
• Includes a discussion of the literature that is selective, synthetic, analytical, and thematic
Component 3: Theory
The theory that is applied or developed
• Is appropriate
• Is logically interpreted
• Is well understood
• Aligns with the question at hand
In addition, the author shows comprehension of the theory’s
• Strengths
• Limitations
Component 4: Methods
The methods applied or developed are
• Appropriate
• Described in detail
• In alignment with the question addressed and the theory used In addition, the author demonstrates
• An understanding of the methods’ advantages and disadvantages
• How to use the methods
Component 5: Results or Analysis
The analysis
• Is appropriate
• Aligns with the question and hypotheses raised
• Shows sophistication
• Is iterative
In addition, the amount and quality of data or information is
• Sufficient
• Well presented
• Intelligently interpreted
The author also cogently expresses
• The insights gained from the study
• The study’s limitations
Component 6: Discussion or Conclusion
The conclusion
• Summarizes the findings
• Provides perspective on them
• Refers back to the introduction
• Ties everything together
• Discusses the study’s strengths and weaknesses
• Discusses implications and applications for the discipline
• Discusses future directions for research
Back to text.
|