The structure of the dissertation MA SBE

The structure- an overview A Dissertation is described as: "An ordered and critical exposition of existing knowledge in any field or part of a field of study ... There should be evidence that the field has been surveyed thoroughly. A full bibliography and references would normally be required." The dissertation should be 15,000 words or equivalent. A clear indication of the purpose of the dissertation and the reasons for undertaking the study selected

There should be a continuous, developing theme throughout the study- the ‘golden thread’ Coherence. The dissertation should be a coherent and unified survey of a particular issue. This particular issue should be kept to the fore throughout and the relevance of each chapter to it should be clear to the writer and should be made clear to the reader. Thus there should be a unity, or a unifying theme, to each chapter and to the work as a whole A summary at the end of each chapter and at the end of the whole work is a useful device for ensuring such unity, for both the reader and writer.

The structure Introduction – say (briefly) what the dissertation is about and how it is structured (most people write this last). A chapter/section with any essential background information. Literature review – this may or may not be a separate section – you could integrate it into your text, but you must show that you have critically read and considered the relevant literature in relation to your research question/issue. How does what you are doing relate to what others in the field have done? N.B. Do not limit yourself only to books – remember that journals contain a lot that is extremely useful.

Methodology – how you did the research and why you decided to do it that way, what the limitations of your chosen method might be. This chapter/section needs to be about 1500-2000 words long for the dissertation. You must show that you have taken into account all relevant considerations in opting for a particular research method and that you have a thorough understanding of the research issues involved. Findings/ Critical account (i.e. not just a description) of your research, relating it to the relevant literature. This is the heart of your writing and may take more than one section or chapter. Conclusion – in which you sum up what you have discovered in your research and tie up any loose ends. N.B. Do not introduce new material into the Conclusion – although you can point out areas where further research is needed. Bring together your findings and reading. References – in which you include all sources cited in your text (see References, below).

In summary…… The whole dissertation should aim to be well planned, lucid in style, copiously illustrated by appropriate evidence and backed by well-ordered critique and analysis.

Regulations The dissertation must be typed on A4 paper with double-spacing throughout the text, and with a margin on the left of every page of 4 cms (i.e. 1½ ins.). Direct quotations from books, especially if several lines long, should be single-spaced and indented. The typing must be on only one side of the page. Every page must be numbered in one continuous sequence, beginning with the title-page and ending with the last page of type. Make sure you adhere to the word length specification. Writing to a specified length is an important skill that we expect you to develop during your MA studies. Work that is more than 10% in excess of the specified length will be penalised.

Good presentation is essential Begin with the title page. This should show the officially approved title of the dissertation, your name as registered, the title of the Masters degree, i.e.: MA in Education, Goldsmiths College, University of London, and the date (month and year). Follow this with the Abstract, of about 300 words. This is best done when you have, in fact, completed the dissertation. It should give an accurate outline of the structure and nature of your argument. Care should be taken in preparing the Abstract to ensure that it summarises the intentions of the study, the research methods used and its major findings. Follow this with a list of Contents: chapter numbers; titles of chapters; page numbers. Then come the chapters. The dissertation is rounded off with a full bibliography

Submission One copy of the dissertation should be uploaded electronically onto the VLE before the deadline of Thursday 1st September 2016 5.30pm. Another hard copy (spiral bound) of the dissertation should be submitted in person on or to the Course Administrator, from whom an official receipt should be obtained.

Supervision Module sessions- January 9th/ January 16th Six sessions with supervisor Your responsibility to contact supervisor Please send work to discuss ahead of supervision at least 3 days in advance

More support…….. The Centre for English Language and Academic Writing(RHB 204) offers: 15 minute drop in sessions with a tutor to discuss aspects of academic writing ( they are not able to read your essay) online guidance on essay writing on the VLE home page