Key Terms and Concepts Found in a Dissertation
Key Terms and Concepts Found in a Dissertation
In a dissertation, several keywords and concepts play a crucial role in shaping the research process and communicating the study effectively. Here are some of the key terms and concepts commonly found in a dissertation:
- Research Problem:
The research problem refers to the specific issue or gap in knowledge that the study aims to address. It highlights the problem statement, the rationale for conducting the research, and the significance of the study in the broader context of the field.
- Research Question:
The research question is a clear and focused inquiry that guides the study. It defines the main objective of the research and provides a framework for investigation. Research questions are typically specific, measurable, and aligned with the research problem.
- Research Objectives:
Research objectives are specific statements that outline the intended outcomes of the study. These objectives help to break down the research question into manageable components, highlighting the specific areas to be investigated or achieved.
- Hypothesis:
A hypothesis is a testable statement or proposition that predicts the relationship between variables in a study. It is commonly used in quantitative research and serves as a tentative explanation or prediction to be tested and supported or rejected based on empirical evidence.
- Background:
The background section of a dissertation provides the contextual information necessary to understand the research problem and its significance. It includes a review of the relevant literature, historical context, and any other pertinent information that sets the stage for the study.
- Literature Review:
The literature review is a critical analysis and synthesis of existing scholarly literature related to the research topic. It provides an overview of the key theories, concepts, and empirical studies relevant to the research problem. The literature review helps identify gaps, debates, and research opportunities that justify the need for the current study.
- Theoretical Framework:
The theoretical framework outlines the key theories, concepts, or models that inform and guide the study. It provides a conceptual lens through which the research questions are examined and interpreted. The theoretical framework helps situate the study within the existing body of knowledge and provides a basis for the formulation of hypotheses or research propositions.
- Conceptual Framework:
The conceptual framework is a visual or written representation of the key concepts, variables, and their relationships in the study. It illustrates the theoretical or conceptual underpinnings of the research and serves as a guide for data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Research Design:
The research design refers to the overall plan or strategy for conducting the study. It includes decisions about the research approach, data collection methods, sample selection, and data analysis procedures. The research design ensures that the study is structured, systematic, and aligned with the research objectives.
- Research Approach:
The research approach refers to the broader methodological orientation or paradigm adopted in the study. It can be qualitative research, quantitative research, or mixed methods, depending on the nature of the research questions and the data required. The research approach determines the overall methodology and data collection techniques used in the study.
- Research Type:
The research type refers to the specific form of research undertaken, such as experimental, correlational, descriptive, exploratory, case study, or longitudinal. The research type aligns with the research objectives and helps determine the appropriate data collection and analysis techniques.
These key terms and concepts provide a foundation for understanding and conducting a dissertation. By grasping their meanings and interrelationships, students can develop a clear research plan, effectively review and integrate existing literature, design a robust study, and communicate their findings in a coherent and scholarly manner
