cnm015 dissertation - ftms · 2015-09-01 · 12500 words, 1500 words on proposal and 11000 for...

CNM015 DISSERTATION

M O D U L E

H A N D B O O K

2 0 1 4 / 1 5

FTMS COLLEGE

Module Leader: Zainudin Johari

1 MODULE HANDBOOK CNM015 MSc BIS

Contents MODULE SPECIFICATION

1.0 AIMS ......................................................................................................... 5

2 Research Method Lectures........................................................................ 5

2.1 Research Methods and dissertation writing skills ……………. 5

2.2 The research methods workshop………………………………….. 6

3 Tutorial Sessions ……………………………………………………………..... 6

3.1 The Log Book / Reflective Journal ……………………………….. 7

3.2 Dissertation Student-Supervisor contact ………………............. 7

4 ASSESSMENT…………………………………………………………………… 7

4.1 Oral Examination………………………………………………………. 9

5.0 Dissertation Moderation……………………………………………………... 9

6.0 Health & Safety……………………………………………………………….... 9

7 Research Workshops………………………………………………………….. 10

7.1 Dissertation Kick-off…………………………………………………. 10

7.2 Research Proposals ………………………………………………… 11

7.3 Research Methods for M-Level……………………………………. 14

7.3 Literature Review…. ………………………………………………… 16

7.4 Critical Analysis & Evaluation…………………………….............. 18

7.5 Referencing & Citation……….…………………………….............. 20

7.6 Technical Documentation…………………………………………... 22

8 Appendices.................................................................................................. 23

8.1 Appendix A…………………………………..……….….…………….. 24

8.2 Appendix B…………………………………..……….….…………….. 25

8.3 Appendix C…………………………………..……….….…………….. 26

8.4 Appendix D…………………………………..……….….…………….. 27

8.5 Appendix E…………………………………..……….….…………….. 29

8.6 Appendix F…………………………………..……….….…………….. 30

8.7 Appendix G…………………………………..……….….……………. 32

8.8 Appendix H…………………………………..……….….……………. 33


Module Specification

Module Title: Dissertation

Module Code:

CNM015

Level: M Credit: 60 ECTS credit:

Module Leader: Zainudin Johari

Pre-requisite: None

Pre-cursor: None

Co-requisite: None

Excluded combinations: None

Is this module part of the Skills Curriculum? No

University-wide option: No

Location of delivery: UEL, AKMI, FTMS KL, FTMS (Singapore), Linton,

Stamford

Main Aim(s) of the Module:

Conduct a research project of M level quality related to the scope of the selected Computing MSc programme

Main Topics of Study: 1 Attendance of Research Methods classes that develop ideas learnt in earlier

taught modules and whose output is a Dissertation proposal 2 Students utilise their knowledge from taught modules for their programme of

study to analyse and research an M level dissertation 3 Present support for their dissertation at an oral assessment 4 Communicate well under personal tutelage conditions 5 Draw upon various research methods and methodologies

Learning Outcomes for the Module At the end of this module, students will be able to: Knowledge 1. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of one chosen and highly specific area within the

domain of their programme of study and communicate this knowledge through both a written report and an oral assessment.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of research methods appropriate for Masters level research and to communicate this knowledge through both a written report and an oral assessment.

Thinking skills 3. Use analytic skills in assessing the works of others to assimilate these iteratively

into an integrated framework of understanding Subject-based practical skills 4. Write a dissertation report, which contains a practical element of at least 25%, but

not exceeding 50%, of the work


Skills for life and work (general skills) 5. Plan the production of an extended piece of work with defined fixed delivery date 6. Manage and deliver the production of an extended piece of work according to the

submitted plan, whilst liaising with a supervisor

Teaching/ learning methods/strategies used to enable the achievement of learning outcomes: Small number of taught research methods classes Use of chatrooms to support learning Supervisory sessions with a supervisor Independent study

Assessment methods which enable student to demonstrate the learning outcomes for the Module: Coursework Written proposal (1500 words) Written report providing evidence of theoretical understanding and demonstrating practical work (including relevant information), which will be assessed both orally (15 minutes ) and as text by two markers (max. 11000 words)

Weighting: 100%

Learning Outcomes demonstrated: 1- 6

Reading and resources for the module:

Core Glasman-Deal, H. (2009) Science research writing for non-native speakers of English. London: Imperial College Press.

Levin, P. (2008) Excellent dissertation. Maidenhead: Open University Press. Rugg, G. and Petre, M. (2007) A gentle guide to research methods. Maidenhead: Open University Press. Dawson, C.W. (2006) Projects in computing and information systems, a student’s guide. Basingstoke: Palgrave-Macmillan. Saunders, M.N.K., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2002) Research methods for business students. London: Prentice Hall. Sharp, H.K. and Peters, J. A. (2002) The management of a student research project. Aldershot: Ashgate Gower Farnham Publishing Limited. Walliman, N.S.R. (2000) Your research project: a step-by-step guide for the first-time researcher. London: Sage Publications Ltd.


Indicative Teaching and Learning Time (10 hrs per credit):

Activity

Student/Tutor interaction, some of which may be online: 14 hours 2 hours 10 hours

Research Methods classes Preparation for oral examination Supervisory tutorials

Student Learning Time: 492 hours 82 hours

Independent study and production of theoretical and practical based dissertation report Management and planning of dissertation

Total hours:

600 hours


CNM015 - MSc Dissertation

INTRODUCTION

This is a mandatory module for MSc-Business Information Systems Programme.

1.0 Aims

The MSc dissertation module is a piece of research work of 60 credits and is

undertaken individually on a topic related to the field that the student is studying. The

dissertation should be related to the taught element of the programme and/or the

student's experience and interests. Students are given some flexibility in choosing a

topic and are encouraged to think about it early and to discuss their ideas with

potential supervisors and the module leader.

This module aims to develop a student’s research skills through one-to-one

supervision to a sufficient standard so that the student produces a dissertation of

potentially publishable quality.

This module will be delivered through a combination of some research methods

lectures, chat-rooms and individual tutorials.

2. Research Methods Lectures

The research methods lectures are designed to give the student an understanding of

what is required of them in terms of output; the timetable, terminology or research;

research proposals; literature review; critical analysis, referencing & citation;

polishing your work and the viva.

2.1. Research Methods and Dissertation Writing Skills

The postgraduate students prepare a research proposal during the research

methods workshop. This proposal will sets out in detail the work that will be carried

out for the dissertation.

The research proposal must set out the problem and the methodology to be adopted

and be a feasible project to carry out in the time available.

Where a student is following a specialised track, they must focus their proposal and

dissertation on that specialisation and choose a related topic for their research

proposal and develop this for their dissertation.


2.2 The Research Methods Workshop The research methods (RM) workshops will be conducted over a three week period

at the start of the dissertation semester and will cover the following suggested topics.

3. Tutorial Sessions The supervisor's role is to give guidance to the student as to the direction of the

dissertation. The student can expect help with such things as referencing and

structuring of the work etc. In addition, draft work (e.g. a chapter) is normally


commented on by the supervisor at the tutorial. However, the work is very much the

student's and so the student cannot expect direct help with content. Neither can the

student expect the supervisor to ‘mark’ interim work as it appears.

3.1 The Log Book / Reflective Journal This is a document that the student uses to record the progress of their learning

during the research period. This log book needs to be submitted with their thesis.

The student will complete the log book for each interaction experienced at the

dissertation masters stage. This includes the RM workshop, contact with the

supervisor, the related reading, any other preparation and any discussions with

fellow students, industry etc.

Each time student meet the supervisor at the end of the meeting, the log book page

needs to be signed by the supervisor to confirm the meeting, progress and future

work.

3.2 Dissertation Student – Supervisor contact The purpose of the contact is to give students the support they need to enable them

to complete an acceptable dissertation within the timescale allowed.

It is the responsibility of the student to contact their supervisor to discuss their

research and ensure that their work progresses according to the plan that they had

prepared in their research proposal.

Regular contact of minimum of 10 hours between the student-supervisor is a

requirement of the programme and a pre-requisite for submission of the dissertation.

4. ASSESSMENT The assessment for this module will be based upon written report providing evidence

of theoretical understanding and demonstrating practical work (including relevant

information), which will be assessed both orally and as text by two markers (max.

12500 words, 1500 words on proposal and 11000 for dissertation). In accordance

with the framework, students MUST obtain a minimum of 50% overall in order to

pass this module.

The dissertation element (including oral assessment) is worth 100% for this module

and consists of one individual piece of work. Two hard copies of the dissertation are

to be handed into Graduate School Office Counter, Level 1.


Dissertation completion schedule


4.1. Oral Examination

The oral examination takes place following the handing in of 2 hard copies and 2

CD’s of the dissertation.

The Viva Voce will include all the supervisors, assessors and the module leader.

5.0. Dissertation Moderation Once the student has submitted their dissertation, the module leader will distribute

them to the first supervisors and select the assessors based on the dissertation title

and assessor's expertise.

Upon the completion of the marking, all marks are returned to the module leader.

Any marks more than 10% difference will go to the project team for third marking.

The project team mark is the final mark.

6.0. Health and Safety

It is our policy to do all that is reasonably practicable to ensure the health, safety and

welfare of all students, as well as people who may visit any of our premises. As such

we comply with all relevant health and safety legislative requirements.

On the programme we will provide safe systems for working, a safe environment for

teaching and learning, adequate health and welfare arrangements and facilities, and

the elimination of risks associated with health and safety.


7.0. Research Workshops (RW)

RW 1: Dissertation Kick-off

Qualities relevant to Dissertation

• Don‘t try and do too much as you only have 14 weeks

• Clarity essential

• Good structure

• Consistent (e.g. Conclusions match dissertation, references standard)

• Practical (m 25%) — need to ‗do‘ something and make this clear — this might be

software or some model or some questionnaire study

• You can change proposal as you go through

• No Plagiarism

Choosing your topic

• List provided but can choose own

• Need a willing supervisor of course

• Supervisors (Current list on website but this will change)

• Start always with your interests (make a list of them)

• Each in turn try to form a question of them)

• Divide each into 4-5 sub-questions (these will be your chapters)

Some tips for doing your dissertation

• Make as much time available as possible (15/30 hrs. per week is recommended)

• With you dissertation box plan the approximate number of words in each chapter

• Always introduce a chapter by saying where we‘re going

• Always have a summary of the chapter by saying where we‘ve been

• Make a diary of time available and what you plan to do with time

• The supervisor-student relationship is really the student-supervisor relationship


• Levels of contact (Email, phone, meetings etc.)

• During staff holidays seek other help

• Conclusion - short and reflect you‘ve done (Oral Assessment — 10%)

Practical

• Choice 25%, 50%, 75% - hence 120, 240 or 360 hours or so

• Average words for 25% should be around 12500,

• Average words for 50% should be around 10500

• Many alternatives

RW 2: Research Proposal

Research

• Research refers to a search for knowledge

• Research means a scientific and systematic search for pertinent information

on a specific topic

• In fact, research is an art of scientific investigation.

• The purpose of research is to discover answers to questions through the

application of scientific procedures.

Types of Research

• To gain familiarity with a phenomenon or to achieve new insights into it

(Exploratory or formulative research studies

• To describe accurately the characteristics of a particular individual, situation or

a group (Descriptive research studies)

• To determine the frequency with which something occurs or with which it is

associated with something else (Diagnostic research studies)

• To test a hypothesis of a causal relationship between variables (Hypothesis-

testing research studies).

• Descriptive research includes surveys and fact-finding enquiries. The main

characteristic of this method is that the researcher has no control over the

variables; he can only report what has happened or what is happening.


• In analytical research, on the other hand, the researcher has to use facts or

information already available, and analyze these to make a critical

evaluation of the material.

• Applied research aims at finding a solution for an immediate problem facing

a society or an industrial/business organization.

• “Gathering knowledge for knowledge’s sake is termed ‘pure’ or ‘basic’

research.”

• Attitude or opinion research i.e., research designed to find out how people feel

or what they think about a particular subject or institution is also qualitative

research.

• Empirical research is data-based research, experimental type of research.

Such research is thus characterized by the experimenter’s control over the

variables under study and his deliberate manipulation of one of them to

study its effects.

Research proposal

• It is like a blue print of a building plan before the construction starts

• Writing a research proposal is both science and art

• A good research proposal is based on scientific facts and on the art of clear

communication

• Writing a formal research proposal should

• be started by the time one has decided on

• the topic for the study

Topics covered in a Proposal

• Objective

• Justification

• Introduction

• Background /Review of literature

• Methodology

• Time frame and work schedule/Gantt chart

• Personnel needed / available


• Facilities needed / available

• Budget

Objective

This is a very important and pivotal section and everything else in the study is

centered on it.

The objective of the proposed study should be stated very clearly

• The objective stated should be specific, achievable and measurable.

• Too many objectives to be avoided.

• Even just one clearly stated relevant objective for a study would be good

enough.

• If there is more than one objective the objectives can be presented in the

appropriate order of importance.

Introduction

• The problem proposed to be studied is introduced in this section

• It should help the reader to acquaint with the topic.

• Introduction should be short about one or two pages.

• The problem should be stated in such a way that it’s importance and

relevance is realized by anyone who reads it.

Literature Review

• This section reflects extensive review of literature done by the investigator.

• In this section what is already known about the topic is written.

• Just quoting the literature verbatim will not serve the purpose.

• It is important to make it coherent, relevant and easily readable knowledge.

• It helps the investigator to gain good knowledge in that field of inquiry.

• It also helps the investigator to have insight on different methodologies that

could be applied.

Research Methodology


Research methodology is a way to systematically solve the research problem. It

may be understood as a science of studying how research is done scientifically.

Time Frame

The proposal should include the sequence of tasks to be performed, the anticipated

length of time required for its completion and the personnel required.

RW 3: Research Methods for M-Level

What would you do if you want to search for knowledge/answer? Four Ways of Knowing

Methods of Tenacity/Tradition/Customs/Superstition/ Magic/Mystery

o Truth is true because one believes it even in front of contradicting

evidence.

Method of Authority: Religion

o Truth is true because an authority says so.

Method of Intuition: Philosophy

o Truth is true because it is logical. It derives from reasoning but does

not bear empirical support.

Method of Science

o Science is a method of seeking truth. This method only accounts for

solvable problems that have empirical solutions based on observable

events.

What is Research Methodology?

Re (again) + Search

defined as a highly intellectual human activity used in the investigation of

nature and matter and deals specifically with the manner in which data is

collected, analyzed and interpreted

Characteristics of Research

Research originates with a question or a problem.

Research requires a clear articulation of a goal.


Research follows a specific plan of procedure.

Research usually divides the principal problem into more manageable sub-

problems.

Research is guided by the specific research problem, question, or hypothesis

Research accepts certain critical assumptions. These assumptions are

underlying theories or ideas about how the world works.

Research requires the collection and interpretation of data in attempting to

resolve the problem that initiated the research

Research is circular which originates and summarizes from research

Objectives of Research

To test and develop new theory

To describe the human life in society by given the reliable information and

news

Types of Research Classified from 3 perspectives

Application of research studies (pure or applied research)

Objectives in undertaking the research (descriptive, correlational, explanatory

or exploratory research)

Inquiry mode employed (qualitative or quantitative research)

Pure or Basic or Fundamental Research

Pure or basic or fundamental research

Research carried out to increase understanding of fundamental principles

The end results have no direct or immediate commercial benefits: basic

research can be thought of as arising out of curiosity. However, in the long

term it is the basis for many commercial products and applied research.

Applied Research Research that is applied, accessing and using some part of the research

communities' (the academy's) accumulated theories, knowledge, methods, and

techniques, for a specific, often state, commercial, or client driven purpose.

Descriptive Research

Attempt to describe systematically a situation, problem, phenomenon, service or

program, or provide information about, say, the living conditions of a community, or

describes attitude towards an issue


Correlational Research

To discover or establish the existence of a relationship/association/interdependence

between 2 or more aspects of situation.

Explanatory Research To clarify why and how there is a relationship between 2 aspects of situation or phenomenon. Exploratory Research

To explore an area where little is known

To investigate the possibilities of undertaking a particular research study

Qualitative & Quantitative Research Qualitative Research: Research Methodology that emphasize on depth of

understanding and the deeper meanings of human experience, and that aim to

generate theoretically richer observations

Methods: Participant Observation, Direct Observation, Unstructured or Intensive

Interviewing (In-depth Interview), Focus Groups

Quantitative Research: Research Methodology that emphasize on precise,

objectivity, and Generalizability.

Methods: Measurement Design, Sampling Design and Statistical Analysis Design.

RW 4: Literature Review

The literature review is a critical look at the existing research that is significant to the

work that you are carrying out.

• To provide background information

• To establish importance

• To demonstrate familiarity

• To “carve out a space” for further research

Characteristics of Effective Literature Reviews

• Outlining important research trends

• Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of existing research


• Identifying potential gaps in knowledge

• Establishing a need for current and/or future research projects

Steps for Writing a Literature Review

• Planning

• Focus - What is the specific thesis, problem, or research question that

my literature review helps to define?

• Type - What type of literature review am I conducting?

• Scope - What is the scope of my literature review?

• Academic Discipline - What field(s) am I working in?

• Reading and Research

• Collect and read material.

• Summarize sources.

• Who is the author?

• What is the author's main purpose?

• What is the author’s theoretical perspective? Research methodology?

• Who is the intended audience?

• What is the principal point, conclusion, thesis, contention, or question?

• How is the author’s position supported?

• How does this study relate to other studies of the problem or topic?

• What does this study add to your dissertation?

• Select only relevant books and articles.

• Analyzing - A literature review is never just a list of studies—it always offers

an argument about a body of research. The four Analysis Tasks of the

Literature Review are Summarize, Synthesize, Critique and Compare.

• Drafting - What Am I Going to Write?

• Summarize the main findings of your review.

• Provide closure.


• Explain “so what?”

• Implications for future research.

• Revising - How Can I Fine-tune My Draft?

Some Tips on Revising

• Title: Is my title consistent with the content of my paper?

• Introduction: Do I appropriately introduce my review?

• Thesis: Does my review have a clear claim?

• Body: Is the organization clear? Have I provided headings?

• Topic sentences: Have I clearly indicated the major idea(s) of each

paragraph?

• Transitions: Does my writing flow?

• Conclusion: Do I provide sufficient closure?

• Spelling and Grammar: Are there any major spelling or grammatical

mistakes?

RW 5: Critical Analysis & Evaluation

The most characteristic features of critical Analysis are:

1. A clear and confident refusal to accept the conclusions of other writers without

evaluating the arguments and evidence that they provide;

2. A balanced presentation of reasons why the conclusions of other writers may

be accepted or may need to be treated with caution;

3. A clear presentation of your own evidence and argument, leading to your

conclusion; and

4. Recognition of the limitations in your own evidence, argument, and

conclusion.

Example of effective critical Analysis

The text below is an example of good critical writing, and is based on essay material

supplied by University of Leicester’s School of Psychology.


“The author refers to the available evidence, but also evaluates the validity of that evidence, and assesses what contribution it can realistically make to the debate. There are a number of inherent methodological difficulties in evaluating treatment efficacy in this area, and this has contributed to controversy within the research literature surrounding treatment outcomes for this group of offenders (Marshall, 1997). Firstly, while there is no doubt that the primary criterion of treatment success is a reduction in the rate of re-offending (Marshall et al., 1999), reconviction data does not, in isolation, provide a realistic representation of actual levels of re-offending by this group. It is well established that there is a discrepancy between re-offending and reconviction rates: the latter underestimating the number of offences committed (Grubin, 1999). Indeed, a significant proportion of offences committed by offenders are either unreported, or do not result in the offender being convicted (Abel et al., 1987).”

You can see how the author is considering the available evidence, but also the

limitations on that evidence, and will be taking all of this into account in drawing

conclusions.

How do we think critically? When we think critically we are being active; we are not passively accepting

everything we read and hear, but questioning, evaluating, making judgements,

finding connections and categorising. It means being open to other points of view

and not being blinded by our own biases.

Critical thinking is useful for most activities associated with tertiary study, such as

forming judgements in lectures and tutorials, and when reading, writing essays and

assignments, making decisions and developing arguments.

Critical thinking involves various processes in the disciplines.

In science and technology it can include asking questions, identifying problems,

describing, predicting, analysing, categorising and establishing cause and effect.

In the arts, social sciences and commerce it can include asking questions, identifying

problems and solutions, relating theory to practice, stating an argument and

supporting it with evidence, making comparisons and evaluating.

Key terms


Logic: the study of correct and incorrect reasoning and the application of correct

reasoning.

Argument: a group of statements or premises leading to a conclusion. If the

premises are false or if the argument is invalid, the conclusion is likely to be incorrect

Premise: a beginning statement of an argument.

Deductive argument: one that arrives at a conclusion that is inherent in the

premises. These arguments are either valid or invalid according to the correctness of

the logic.

Inductive argument: one that examines the real world to find evidence towards a

conclusion. (These are what are mostly used in writing essays in the arts and social

sciences). Such arguments should be assessed according to whether they are weak

or strong.

RW 6: Referencing & Citation

Referencing:-

A reference is the way for the student to find source documents as quickly and easily

as possible.

Citation

Citation is identifying referenced documents in your assignment.

Bibliography

• A bibliography is quite different from a reference list in that you include every

resource cited i.e. the reference and also all other useful information you may

have consulted when preparing to write your piece of work.

• In bibliography, you will repeat everything in your reference list and also

include all other sources you read or consulted but did not cite

Plagiarism


Plagiarism is specific form of cheating and is generally defined as presenting

someone’s else work or ideas as your own

How to avoid Plagiarism?

Giving credit to the original authors by referencing and citing is the only way to

use other people’s work without plagiarism.

Manage your time and plan your work- ensure you have time to read, write

and prepare

Use your own ideas and words

Use others ideas only to support or reinforce your own argument

For internet materials make a note of the source(author, title, URL and so on.)

and the date you accessed the page.

Avoid using someone else’s work with only minor cosmetic changes.

When Paraphrasing, use words or sentence structure different from the

original work and acknowledge the source through in-text citation

Save all your notes, printouts until you receive final mark or grade for your

assignment.

Remember, Bibliography and references both are different.

If you wish to use any information which is confidential, you must obtain

information from all those who might be affected by this publication.

Referencing Style

Harvard Referencing style is also known as author-date style. Harvard is simple,

flexible referencing style.

Using the Harvard referencing style a reference list is arranged alphabetically by the

author's surname or by the title, if there is no author. Also there should be just one

list for all your references. Do not split the list into sections e.g. books, journals, etc.

Referencing Style - Information taken from Book

• Author/editor


• Year of publication (in round brackets)

• Title (in italics)

• Edition (only include the edition number if it is not the first edition)

• Place of publication: publisher

• Series and volume number (where relevant)

For different referencing styles including Journals, articles, proceedings please follow the link given below:- http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/harvard_quick_guide_tcm44-47797.pdf

RW 7: Technical Documentation

• Technical documentation" is the generic term for documentation with regard to

a product.

• People mainly associate the term with the documents and information that are

passed on to the public by the manufacturer.

• The term 'technical documentation' refers to different documents with product-

related data and information that are used and stored for different purposes.

• “Different purposes” mean: Product definition and specification, design,

manufacturing, quality assurance, product liability, product presentation;

description of features, functions and interfaces; intended, safe and correct

use; service and repair of a technical product as well as its safe disposal.

Software Documentation

• Software documentation or source code documentation is written text that

accompanies computer software.

• It either explains how it operates or how to use it, and may mean different things

to people in different roles.

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/harvard_quick_guide_tcm44-47797.pdf


Role of documentation in software development

Types of documentation include:

• Requirements - Statements that identify attributes, capabilities, characteristics,

or qualities of a system.

• Architecture/Design - Overview of software. Includes relations to an

environment and construction principles to be used in design of software

components.

• Technical - Documentation of code, algorithms, interfaces, and APIs.

• End user - Manuals for the end-user, system administrators and support staff.

• Marketing - How to market the product and analysis of the market demand.

APPENDICES Appendix A…………………………….…… Dissertation Format

Appendix B………………………...……….. Research Proposal Form

Appendix C…………………….…………… Dissertation Student-Supervisor

Contact

Appendix D…….…………………………… Cover Sheet Format

Appendix E……….………………………… Dissertation Certificate

Appendix F……………….………………… Assessment Form

Appendix G………………………… ……… Supervision Form

Appendix H…………………………………. Submission to Turn-it-in


Appendix A

DISSERTATION FORMAT Before printing off your final version of your dissertation please set up the following

margins

Left Margin = 4 cm

Top right & Bottom = 2.5 cm

1.5 spacing

Please allow 1 extra gap after main title

Title and Sub title should be in Bold

Title = 16pt

Sub title = 14pt

Don‘t start your title or sub-title at the bottom of the page always go to new page.

Font size 12pt Font type Arial (preferably)

Check for grammars and spelling in UK English

Give reference to all graphs, tables and pictures.

Don‘t forget to submit your work to TRUNITIN and enclose the report from the

TURNITIN to your dissertation before submit to the office on time.

Please indicate your type of project whether is 25% or 50% practical in your

dissertation.


Appendix B

RESEARCH PROPOSAL FORM

Student Name……………………………………………….

Student ID……………………………………………………

Names of THREE Projects you would like to work on

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Programme:

Introduction

The purpose of this form is to allow you to set down your research proposal the work

you intend to do for your dissertation.

Title

Objectives of the proposed study (including provisional title)

The Context(s)

Research design (including methods and tools) or critical approach

Ethical Issues

Special resources required

Timetable of main stages of the study

What is your knowledge about your project and related to your programme?


Appendix C

DISSERTATION STUDENT-SUPERVISOR CONTACT

The following Agreement will be signed by Students at the Commencement of the

Dissertation.

1. The purpose of the Dissertation Student-Supervisor Contact is to give students the

support they need to enable them to complete an acceptable Dissertation within the

timescale allowed.

2. It is the responsibility of the student to contact their Supervisor in accordance with

the Scheduled Timetable to discuss their research and ensure that their work

progresses according to the plan that they had prepared in their Research Proposal

3. Regular contact of minimum of 10 hours between the Student and Supervisor is a

requirement of the programme and a pre-requisite for submission of the Dissertation.

4. A record of this contact will be kept and may be referred to at the Assessment

Board if a student‘s Dissertation is discussed.

5. Students will be required to submit written drafts of parts of their Dissertation at

times agreed with their Supervisor and submit end of week 6.

I HAVE READ AND AGREE TO THESE CONDITIONS

STUDENT NAME ………………………………………………………………………

STUDENT ID ……………………………………………………………………….

SIGNATURE ………………………………………………… DATE …………


Appendix D

<TITLE OF THE DISSERTATION>

A dissertation submitted to the

School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering (ACE),

UNIVERSITY OF EAST LONDON

in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of

Master of Science

in

Business Information Systems

by

<Name of the student>

<Register Number>

submitted on

<Date>

Guided by

<Supervisor Name>

School of Engineering & Computing Sciences

(SOECS)

FTMS COLLEGE

KUALA LUMPUR – 50000

MALAYSIA

DECEMBER 2014


FTMS COLLEGE

School of Engineering & Computing Sciences

(SOECS)

This is to certify that this dissertation work entitled

<TITLE OF THE DISSERTATION>

is a bonafide record of the work done

by

<Name of the student>

<Register Number>

at FTMS College, Malaysia during the year 2014-2015 in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the award of the degree of

M. Sc Business Information Systems

<Supervisor Name>

<Designation>

Submitted for the University of East London and the Presentation and Viva

held at FTMS College, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on _________________.


Appendix E

(Certificate from the Internal Guide)

Guide Name

Designation

FTMS College

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this dissertation entitled “ <Title of the dissertation>“ submitted in

partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of M.Sc. Business

Information Systems to the University of East London, UK through FTMS College, Kuala

Lumpur, Malaysia is a bonafide record of the work done by <Name of the student>

(Regno. ) under my supervision and guidance.

Date: Signature of the Guide


Appendix F

MSc BIS Dissertation Report (25% Practical) Student Name:------------------------- Student Number:-------------------------------

Course :------------------------- Date : December 2014

TITLE:------------------------- -----------------------------------------------------------------------

Marker: (1st /2nd)**--------------------------------------------(** Delete as Appropriate)

Item % of Total Actual Mark

(i) Use of existing Theory 20%

Markers to type over!! Variety, existence, focus, relevance and

understanding shown of the references.

(ii) Analytic quality of Report 25%

Markers to type over!! Made use references by developing something

from them? How coherent, clear and sensible are the arguments and how consistent (in tone, ambition and interpretation) is the work? Appropriate representation of thinking (e.g. graphs, drawings etc).

(iii) Implementation/Practical

Aspect 25%

Markers to type over!! Quality of the student’s

practical. Complimentary/Relevant to theory? Difficulty of task undertaken? Any particularly subtle approaches? Ability shown in writing up this practical part. Is it clear what the student (as opposed to others) has ‘done’.

(iv) Critical Evaluation/

Conclusions 15%

Markers to type over!! Is there a justified methodology/approach? Does what the student claims to have done both in the interpretation of theory and the practical hold up to scrutiny? Do the Conclusions match the rest of report? Do data records (e.g. diary) to aid evaluation exist and has the student commented on both the process and the product of their work?

(v) Presentation

Markers to type over!! Flow, look, typos, formatting

(vi) Oral Assessment 10% Markers to type over!! Did they respond clearly and demonstrate relevant and supportive statements of their dissertation.

5%

TOTAL MARK _____________ Marker Signature ________


MSc BIS Dissertation Report (50% Practical)

Student Name:------------------------- Student Number:-------------------------------

Course :------------------------- Date : December 2014

TITLE:------------------------- -----------------------------------------------------------------------

Marker: (1st /2nd)**--------------------------------------------(** Delete as Appropriate)

Item % of Total Actual Mark

(v) Use of existing Theory 15%

Markers to type over!! Variety, existence, focus, relevance and

understanding shown of the references.

(vi) Analytic quality of Report 20%

Markers to type over!! Made use references by developing something

from them? How coherent, clear and sensible are the arguments and how consistent (in tone, ambition and interpretation) is the work? Appropriate representation of thinking (e.g. graphs, drawings etc).

(vii) Implementation/Practical Aspect

45%

Markers to type over!! Quality of the student’s

practical. Complimentary/Relevant to theory? Difficulty of task undertaken? Any particularly subtle approaches? Ability shown in writing up this practical part. Is it clear what the student (as opposed to others) has ‘done’.

(viii) Critical Evaluation/

Conclusions 8%

Markers to type over!! Is there a justified methodology/approach? Does what the student claims to have done both in the interpretation of theory and the practical hold up to scrutiny? Do the Conclusions match the rest of report? Do data records (e.g. diary) to aid evaluation exist and has the student commented on both the process and the product of their work?

(v) Presentation

Markers to type over!! Flow, look, typos, formatting

(vi) Oral Assessment 10% Markers to type over!! Did they respond clearly and demonstrate relevant and supportive statements of their dissertation.

2%

TOTAL MARK _____________ Marker Signature ________


Appendix G


Appendix H

Submission to Turnitin of Work Submitted for Assessment Turnitin is an internet-based text matching service that has been developed by a commercial

company. It is used, under license, by most UK Universities, including the University of East

London. Work that is submitted to Turnitin generates a Turnitin Originality report, showing

which parts of it have been reproduced from which sources. The system compares

submissions to material that is to be found: on the world-wide web; in its database of

previous submissions; and in its growing number of databases of published articles. You

should not assume that a Turnitin Originality report with a low similarity index is evidence

that the piece of work concerned is free from plagiarism.

Our policy on the use of Turnitin recognises the educational desirability that all of our

students should enjoy the opportunity to self-submit their work to Turnitin (before submitting

for assessment). We also recognise that Turnitin Originality Reports will sometimes assist in

the identification of plagiarised work submitted for assessment.

Our policy provides that a Module Leader may decide, in accordance with the policy of the

appropriate School, that all student submissions for a particular component of assessment

should be submitted to Turnitin, provided that the relevant Module Guide includes a notice to

that effect.

Notice is hereby given that all submissions for component [insert name(s) of component(s)]

of this Module must be submitted to Turnitin. Detailed guidance on how to submit your work

to Turnitin can be found on this Module‘s UEL Plus site.

If you fail to submit component [insert name(s) of component(s)], to Turnitin, in

accordance with the guidance on the UEL Plus site, you will be awarded a mark of 0 for

the component.

If you have any questions about Turnitin, you should go to ―Frequently Asked Questions‖ at

http://www.nlearning.co.uk/faqsearch.php?sol=turnitin. If you have any further questions,

please email the Module Leader, Zainudin Johari ([email protected]).

mailto:[email protected]


The School of Engineering & Computing Sciences

(SOECS)

is committed to provide education and

training which does not discriminate against any

staff or students on grounds of age, colour, culture,

disability, ethnic origin, family responsibility,

gender, race, religion, or status.

cnm015 dissertation - ftms · 2015-09-01 · 12500 words, 1500 words on proposal and 11000 for...

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