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Please go through the following sample outline to get an
idea about your dissertation.
Your dissertation consists of 5 main sections:
1. Statement of your theory.
2. Literature Review.
3. Methodology.
4. The Data Analysis Section.
5. Summary of your findings and your conclusions/recommendations.
Your final paper comprises of two efforts:
The Final Paper Proposal (Chapters 1 - 3)
The Final Paper (Chapters 1 - 5)
Proposal Preparation
CHAPTER 1:
Statement of your theory
This chapter introduces your dissertations 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.
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