Instructions for Preparing a Follow-Up or Extension Study Dissertation
Project Overview
We require a dissertation that serves as a follow-up or extension study of an original dissertation. This project should build upon the existing research, filling in gaps, exploring additional variables, or using new methodologies. Below are the detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
1. Initial Review and Understanding
– Thoroughly review the original dissertaition its research questions, methodology, findings, and conclusions.
– Identify Key Elements: Note the significant findings, gaps identified by the original author, and any recommendations for future research.
2. Define Research Objectives
– Focus and Scope: Clearly define the focus of the follow-up study. Specify whether it aims to replicate, expand, or update the original study.
– Research Questions or Hypotheses: Develop precise research questions or hypotheses that align with the objectives of this follow-up study.
3. Literature Review
– **Update Literature**: Conduct a comprehensive review of recent literature to provide context and highlight developments since the original study.
– **Position the Study**: Articulate how this follow-up study fits within the current body of research and its expected contribution.
4. **Methodology Development**
– **Method Selection*: Choose an appropriate methodology, explaining whether you will replicate the original methods or use a different approach.
– **Research Design**: Detail the research design, including sample selection, data collection methods, and analysis techniques.
5. **Data Collection and Analysis**
– **Data Gathering**: Collect new data as per the research design, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and necessary permissions.
– **Data Analysis**: Perform rigorous data analysis using suitable statistical or qualitative techniques.
6. **Comparison and Discussion**
– **Compare Findings**: Contrast the new findings with those of the original study, discussing similarities, differences, and underlying reasons.
– **Implications and Contributions**: Discuss the implications of the findings for theory, practice, and future research.
7. **Writing the Dissertation**
– **Structure and Format*: Follow the institution’s guidelines as per the orginal dissertation structure, typically including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion etc.
– **Acknowledgment of Original Work**: Clearly acknowledge the original dissertation in the introduction and literature review, specifying how this study builds upon it.
8. **Citations and References**
– **In-Text Citations**: Properly cite the original dissertation and other sources throughout the text.
– **Reference List**: Include a comprehensive reference list formatted according to the harvard style.
9. **Proofreading and Editing**
– Review for Clarity: Thoroughly proofread the dissertation for clarity, coherence, and consistency, plagiarism.
– **Feedback Integration**: Incorporate feedback from peers, supervisors, or professional editors.
10. **Submission Preparation**
– **Adherence to Guidelines**: Ensure the final document adheres to all submission guidelines regarding format, length, and deadlines.
– **Defense Preparation**: If required, prepare supporting materials for the dissertation defense.
Please ensure that each step is meticulously followed to produce a high-quality dissertation that meets academic standards and contributes valuable insights to the field.