GUIDELINES IN WRITING THESIS AND DISSERTATION

Three main parts of a thesis and dissertation are preliminaries, body and back
matter.

THESIS FORMAT
(Preliminaries)
Title Page
Approval Sheet
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
List of Tables
List of Figures
Abstract

(Body)
Chapter I: THE PROBLEM
Introduction
Background of the Study
Statement of the Problem
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
Hypothesis of the Study
Scope and Limitations of the Study
Significance of the Study
Definition of Terms

Chapter II: Review of Literature

Conceptual Literature
Research Literature
Synthesis

Chapter III: Research Methodology

Research Design Research Environment

Respondents of the Study Research Design
Sampling Design Sources of Data
Data Gathering Instrument Data Gathering Procedure
Data Gathering Procedure Data Analysis
Statistical Treatment of Data Assumptions of the Study

Chapter IV: Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation of Data

(Present the possible subtitles according to SOP)

Chapter V: Summary, Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations

Summary
Findings
Conclusions
Recommendations

(Back Matter)
Bibliography
Appendices (Letter, Research Instrument)
Curriculum Vitae

Criteria in Writing the Title:

1. Reflective of the general problem
2. Clear and descriptive
3. Short and concise, preferably not more than 14 words or two lines using the inverted pyramid
format
4. Correctly worded and properly edited, and
5. Conforms with the institutional format

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 Lecture 1
NATURE OF RESEARCH

Understanding business research

• W hat is research?

• W hy do organizations do research?

• W hy do you want to learn about business research?

• Assume nothing!

• Linking purpose, method, & analysis

• E.g. data collected does answer questions

Mindsets of the manager and researcher

• Research is something that academics do when they don’t have anything better
to do with their lives

• Research is a waste of time

• Research is costly

• Isn’t this commonsense? W hy do we need research?

• Research is too complicated and impractical e.g. AMJ, JAP

• Mindsets of the manager and researcher

• Poor management decisions are made because of lack of proper research

• Simplistic research do not solve problems

• Managers do not want to hear bad news

• Ideas that are not tested are dangerous

• HBS, Management Today and books written by consultants

• E.g. change program in a telco in a SEA country

Finding a middle ground

• Practical research

• Informed by the literature

• Solid methods – procedures used to sample, ethics, & appropriate tools

• W ell-written and presented

Nature of Research

• Research may be defined as a scientific investigation of phenomena which

includes collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of facts that links
man’s speculation with reality

• Systematic, controlled, empirical and critical investigation of hypothetical

propositions about the presumed relations among natural phenomena (Kerlinger,
1 97 3 )

Characteristics of a Good Researcher

• Intellectual curiosity; prudence; healthy criticism; intellectual honesty; intellectual

creativity

• R-research oriented; E- efficient; S-scientific; E-effective; A- active; R-

resourceful; C-creative; H-honest; E-economical; R-religious
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Values of Research to Man

• Improves the quality of life

• Improves instruction

• Improves student’s achievement

• Satisfies man’s needs

• Reduces the burden of work

• Has deep seated psychological aspect

• Improves exportation of food products

Characteristics of Research

• Empirical

• Logical

• Cyclical

• Analytical

• Replicability

• Critical

Research must have:

1 Purpose

 The research must have an aim: it should be problem based, unified and directed
 Not pointless and random
 A testable hypothesis is needed to consolidate purpose of study
 This also narrows down the project to a manageable size
 Formulate a research question that is meaningful, narrow and clear

2 Rigour

 Sound methodological design

 Scientific and logical
 Conclusions must follow from accepted premises defended and tested in the research
 Wide search and discussion of the literature in the area

3 Hypothesis formation

 A clear hypothesis ensures your research has a focus/purpose and direction

 The project aim must be testable

4 Objectivity

 Conclusions should not be based on subjective/emotional values but the facts resulting
from the data analysis
 The data should be stripped of personal values and biases (Sekaran:13)
 The conclusions must be based on the data, not your pre-judged opinion of what should
have happened
 If you do not find support for the hypothesis as expected, admit to the limitations

5 Generalizability

 The more a research project can be generalised to other situations, the better.
generalisable but also narrow in focus

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Types of Research

1. Basic research – also called “pure research”; aims to discover basic truths and principles; it is
intended to add to the body of scientific knowledge by exploring the unknown to extend the
boundaries of knowledge as well as to discover new facts, and learn more accurately the
characteristics of known without any particular thought as to immediate practical utility.

2. Applied research – involves seeking new applications of scientific knowledge to the solution of
a problem such as the development of a new system or procedure, new device or new order in
order to solve problem

3. Action research – a decision oriented research involving the application of the steps of the
scientific method in response to an immediate need to improve existing practices

Classification of research

• Library research – done in the library where answers to specific questions or

problems of the study are available

• Field research – conducted in a natural setting. No changes are made in the

environment

• Laboratory research – conducted in artificial or controlled conditions by isolating

the study in a rigorously specified and operationalized area

Types of Research Design

1. Descriptive Research
This is conducted to illustrate and determine patterns or characteristics of variables in
particular instances or events. In the statement of specific objectives, some of the more
appropriate verbs to use are describe, determine, analyze, explain, define and illustrate.
Example: “Perceived Strengths and Weaknesses of Solidbank Corporation’s Job
Rotation Program”

2. Exploratory Research
This is undertaken to gather initial data patterns or characteristics of variables in a
situation where studies have not been done or minimal data are available to establish significant
patterns or relationships of variables in a specified scope. The statement of hypothesis is not
usually present because one of the purposes of an exploratory study is to recommend possible
hypotheses which can be tested in future studies. In the statement of specific objectives, some of
the more appropriate verbs to use are explore, find out, know, examine, and investigate.
Example: A study on Green Marketing

3. Causal/Explanatory Research
This type of research is carried out to ascertain that the occurrence of, or change in, the
independent variables leads to changes in the independent variables. In the statement of specific
objectives, some of the appropriate verbs to use are analyze, explain and identify.
Example: The study entitled “Effects of Quality Circle in Company E”

4. Correlational Research
This is conducted to establish the fact that the outcome of certain patterns of
relationships occur together in a specified manner without suggesting that one variable causes
the other variable to change. In this design, relationship is also clearly identified as positive or
negative correlation. The most appropriate verb to use in stating specific objectives is correlate or
interrelate.
Example: The study entitled “Chief Executive Scanning, Environmental Characteristics
and Financial Performance: A Canonical Analysis and Empirical Investigation of Top United
States Manufacturing Firms in the Philippines”

5. Comparative Research
This is undertaken to conform two or more variables reveal similar or different patterns of
characteristics when compared, using a set of variables as standard bases. In the statement of
specific objectives, some of more appropriate verbs and phrases to use are compare, determine
similarities, find out differences and contrast.
Examples: The comparative study between the Japanese principles of personnel
management and the actual practice in a Philippine-based Japanese company
Human Resources Management Practices of Small, Medium and Large
enterprises in Metro Manila

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6. Evaluative Research
This is conducted to assess the performance outcome or impact of a set of variables on
another one. This design considers an adequate time span to pinpoint the effects accurately.
This kind of research could also be longitudinal study. The appropriate verbs to use in the
statement of specific objectives are evaluate, assess, appraise, measure and quantify.
Examples: An Assessment of the Skills Needed by the Finance Sector in Relation to the
Management of the Finance Sector in Relation to the Management of Financial Institution
of Batangas State University”
A Study on the Efficiency of the Delivery of Basic Services of Local
Governments in Batangas Province

7. Experimental Research
This is undertaken to determine the possible cause and effect relationships through
experimental and control groups. Such research design is usually done in a simulated
environment. The experimental group which may be one or more, is exposed to the treatment
conditions or manipulations, while the control group, which may also be one or more, does not
receive the treatment and is used to compare the results.

References:
A. Sevilla, Consuelo et.al., 1992. Research Methods.
B. Paler-Calmorin, Laurentina and Calmorin, Melchor, 2003. Methods of Research and
Thesis Writing

Lecture 2
THE RESEARCH PROCESS

Research Process

1. Problem/Objectives
2. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
3. Assumptions
4. Hypothesis
5. Review of Related Literature
6. Research Design
7. Data Collection
8. Data Processing
9. Analysis and Interpretation
10. Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Research Problem
• An investigator knows that a problem is really researchable when

1. The problem is existing in the locality or country but no known solution to the problem
2. The solution to the problem can be answered using statistical methods and techniques
3. There are probable solutions but not yet tested
4. The occurrence of phenomena requires scientific investigation to arrive at precise solution
5. Serious needs and problems of the people where it demands research

A good research problem should be

• S – Specific

• M – Measurable

• A – Achievable

• R – Realistic

• T – Time bound

Criteria of a good research problem

• Enthusiastic

• Relevant to government’s thrust

• Relevant to the needs and problems of the people

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 • Innovative

• Cost effective

• Inventive

• Return of investment

• Original

• Measurable and

• Time bound

Sources of Research Problem

 Alignment and Specialization

 Existing and past researches

 Theses, dissertations and research journals

 Seminars and symposia

 Major and Elective subjects

 Problems met

 Research thrust of institution

 Creative ideas of the researcher

REQUIREMENT: Researchable Problem (minimum of 5)

Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

a. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

 An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates
the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
 An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
 An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific
evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-
effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince
the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text which does not fall under these three categories (ex. a narrative), a thesis
statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

b. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your
paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

c. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

d. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect
exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

An analysis of the college admission process reveals one challenge facing counselors: accepting
students with high test scores or students with strong extracurricular backgrounds.

The paper that follows should:

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  explain the analysis of the college admission process
 explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

The life of the typical college student is characterized by time spent studying, attending class, and
socializing with peers.

The paper that follows should:

 explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with
peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

High school graduates should be required to take a year off to pursue community service projects
before entering college in order to increase their maturity and global awareness.

The paper that follows should:

 present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue
community projects before entering college

Reference:
Anne Patching\Masters Academic Skills S2 2005\Research process .doc

Lecture 3
WRITING A RESEARCH PROPOSAL: AN OVERVIEW

What is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a short document (usually 3-7 pages) written to inform others of a
proposed piece of research. Note that a research proposal can be rejected as “unsuitable” or
“poorly designed”, and a price of research can be rejected on the basis of the proposal – so the
proposal is obviously an important document. It is therefore worthwhile spending some time
getting it exactly right. Another reason to get the proposal right to start with is that it will save you
time in the long run. This is because, if it is well designed, the proposal forms the outline of the
thesis t follow. Ideally, the proposal can be mapped onto various parts of the final thesis.

The following sections must be included in any of the proposal:

1. Introduction

This should be as brief as possible. Get to the main focus quickly. You need to give a sense of
the general field of research of which your area is a part. This needs to narrow down to th specific
area you are concerned with, and this should lead logically to the “gap” in the research that you
will fill. When the gap is identified then a research question can caturally be raised. The answer to
this question is called the thesis statement

Further points to note:

 You should outline any controversies that are in the literature briefly without giving full
details (as this will be covered in the literature review section)
 The introduction must actually narrow down – not get wider. You must demonstrate how
you have command of the issues in the area and that you are focusing on a particular
issue.

2. The Research Question

Note that the research question may not be necessarily be a “question” as such, but can be a
statement of the problem to be investigated. Note the move from general area, to specific focu
area, to the gap in the research and to the proposed thesis statement.

3. Justification of the proposed research

Perry (2003) suggests that the writer need to tell the reader that the research can be
justified along four main criteria
 The size of the industry/area involved
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  The gaps in the literature demand attention
 The unusual or improved methodology being used
 The benefits in terms of policy and practice

4. Preliminary Literature Review

This is where you provide more detail on what others have done in the area, and what
you propose to do. You will need to write around two pages. You need to cover the following:
 The major issues or schools of thought
 The gaps in the literature
 Research questions (for qualitative research) and hypothesis (for quantitative research)
which are connected carefully to the literature being reviewed
 Definition of key terms (this can be done when you introduce each idea, or in a definition
subsection)
 Questions arising from the gaps that can be the focus of data collection or analysis
 This section eventually becomes Chapter 2 of the thesis

5. Theoretical Framework
The theoretical framework describes the model that you are using in the thesis to
demonstrate your point

6. Contribution of research
In this section you outline hour your research will make a change to an area of study.
This is different from the justification of your research. The contribution section explains that what
you will do will lead to certain outcomes. You need to outline:
 The importance of research outcomes
 The practical or theoretical nature of the outcome(s)
The outcome could be an extension of a theoretical model to a new area, or it could be
something practical like the development of a checklist for managers

7. Proposed Research Methodology

There is a need to describe the methodology used and the corresponding justification.
For example you could explain:
 Why you are using a certain paradigm or theory
 Why you are using qualitative or quantitative research
 Why you are using survey, correlational studies, specific statistical measurements
 Why you are using certain dependent, independent, moderating, or control variables
 Why you have chosen a sampling frame and the size of a certain sample
 How you are proposing to access the data
 How you are proposing to analyse the data

Here is a list the task words with their corresponding meaning.

TASK WORDS

Account for Explain, clarify, give reasons for. (different from 'Give an account of' which is
more like 'describe in detail').

Analyse Break an issue down into its component parts, discuss them and show how
they interrelate.

Assess Consider the value or importance of something, paying due attention to

positive, negative and disputable aspects, and citing the judgements of any
known authorities as well as your own.

Argue Make a case, based on appropriate evidence for and/or against some given
point of view.

Comment Too vague to be sure, but safe to assume it means something more than
on 'describe' or 'summarise' and more likely implies 'analyse' or 'assess'.

Compare Identify the characteristics or qualities two or more things have in common
(but probably pointing out their differences as well).

Contrast Point out the differences between two things (but probably point out their
similarities as well).

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Criticise Spell out your judgement as to the value or truth of something, indicating the
criteria on which you base your judgement and citing specific instances of
how the criteria apply in this case.

Define Make a statement as to the meaning or interpretation of something, giving

sufficient detail to allow it to be distinguished from similar things.

Describe Spell out the main aspects of an idea or topic or the sequence in which a
series of things happened.

Discuss Investigate or examine by argument, sift and debate, giving reasons for and
against.

Evaluate Make an appraisal or the worth of something, in the light of its apparent truth;
include your personal opinion. Like 'assess'.

Enumerate List some relevant items, possibly in continuous prose (rather than note
form) - and perhaps 'describe' them (see above) as well.

Explain Tell how things work or how they came to be the way they are, including
perhaps some need to 'describe' and to 'analyse' (see above).

To what Explore the case for a stated proposition or explanation, much in the manner
extent . . .? of 'assess' and 'criticise' (see above), probably arguing for a less than total
acceptance of the proposition.

How Far Similar to 'to what extent . . .?' (See above)

Identify Pick out what you regard as the key features of something, perhaps making
clear the criteria you use.

Illustrate Similar to 'explain' (see above), but probably asking for the quoting of
specific examples or statistics or possibly the drawing of maps, graphs,
sketches, etc.

Interpret Clarify something or 'explain' (see above), perhaps indicating how the thing
relates to some other thing or perspective.

Justify Express valid reasons for accepting a particular interpretation or conclusion,

probably including the need to 'argue' (see above) a case.

Outline Indicate the main features of a topic or sequence of events, possibly setting
them within a clear structure or framework to show how they interrelate.

Prove Demonstrate the truth of something by offering irrefutable evidence and/or

logical sequence of statements leading from evidence to conclusion.

Reconcile Show how two apparently opposed or mutually exclusive ideas or

propositions can be seen to be similar in important respects, if not identical.
Involves need to 'analyse' and justify' (see above).

Relate Either 'explain' (see above) how things happened or are connected in a
cause-and-effect sense, or may imply 'compare' and 'contrast' (see above).

Review Survey a topic, with the emphasis on 'assess' rather than 'describe' (see
above).

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State Express the main points of an idea or topic, perhaps in the manner of
'describe' or 'enumerate' (see above).

Summarise 'State' (see above) the main features of an argument, omitting all
superfluous detail and side issues.

Trace Identify the connection between one thing and another either in a
developmental sense over a period, or else in a cause-and-effect sense.
May imply both 'describe' and 'explain' (see above).

Source: http://www.lc.unsw.edu.au/onlib/taskword.html,(07/11/2005).

Unity and Coherence in your essay

1 Unity
Discuss one main idea in each paragraph. Do not include any information that does not support
the topic sentence.

2 Coherence
The movement from one sentence to another and one paragraph to the next must be logical and
smooth.
There are four ways to do this:
1. Using transition signals
2. Arranging sentences according to a pattern of organisation
3. Repeating key nouns
4. Using pronouns consistently

Transitions
Here are some example transitions and connective phrases.
Conjunctions To Summarize or conclude To Explain, Give Reasons
and in brief admittedly
but briefly because
or in other words certainly
for in summary for example
nor in conclusion since
neither on the whole that is
so Therefore
yet hence
thus
that is
consequently
as a result
finally

To Compare To Contrast To Show Cause and

by comparison conversely Effect
here again however accordingly
in the same way instead as a consequence
in a similar manner a different view is as a result
likewise differing from consequently
similar to on the contrary for this reason
similarly in contrast hence
so too on the other hand it follows that
as unlike so/so that
also whereas then
equally otherwise therefore
balanced against rather than thus
despite
still
yet
but

To Add Information and To Show Various To Show Conviction

Reasons Conditions after all
add to this in this event at least

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again in these circumstances at the same time
also under such circumstances apparently
another this (that) being so even so
equally provided that evidently
further in spite of conceivably
furthermore none/nevertheless conclusively
in addition at the same time doubtless
moreover even if no doubt
once more if perhaps
then too unless possibly
too otherwise presumably
yet again although probably
yet another even though undoubtedly
though
despite

To Show Concession To Show Chronological To List or Show Logical

admittedly Order Order
after all later for example
all the same subsequently for instance
granted concurrently in particular
however in the meantime to illustrate
in any case now the one ... the other
in spite of simultaneously this ... that
it is true that at this time these ... those
nevertheless when/while/was here ... there
obviously (avoid) first, second, etc. either ... or
of course (avoid) formerly neither ... nor
still earlier whether ... or
previously though ... yet
before wherever ... there
then since ... then
already the more ... the more
at length not only ... but also
by that time
finally
followed by

To introduce a topic To Show Purpose To give an example

as for in order that for example
concerning in order to for instance
with regard to so that to illustrate
with respect to to demonstrate
in this case
take the case of

Adapted from:
http://www.english.uiuc.edu/cws/wworkshop/writer_resources/writing_tips/writing_tips.ht
m, (20/09/2005).

http://www.lc.unsw.edu.au/onlib/taskword.html,(07/11/2005).

Reporting information from other sources

Reporting verbs

 Reporting verbs are used to report the ideas of others.

 Your voice is expressed in your choice of reporting verb
 The tense used in reporting verb may also reflect your voice.

Aim of study Results Opinion

Investigate show (that) assert (that)
Examine suggest (that) * believe (that)
Analyse find (that) argue (that)
look at indicate (that) note (that)*
focus on identify (x) as point out (that)*
Consider reveal (that) observe (that)*
Identify establish (that) Consider (that)
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report (on) confirm (that) hold (that)
be concerned with conclude (that)* claim (that)
Explore demonstrate (that) emphasise/ stress (that)
maintain (that)
reason (that)
think (that)
Verbs marked * can be used to introduce either Results or Opinion.
Source: http://www.efl.arts.gla.ac.uk/writing/repverbs.html, (10/06/2005).

Verb tense in reporting information

Present Most commonly used Smith (1999) examines the relationship between
tense …
Marklin (1998:76) argues that …
Past To increase ‘distance’ Lefevbre (2002) identified (x) as the main cause
between you and what of (y) . (but you thing this may be wrong).
you are referring to. Data was obtained …
To present Brown (2002) found that …
methodology/results of
one specific piece of
research
Present Talking about general Various studies have looked at …
perfect research in the area Few researchers have investigated …
Adapted from:
http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/summary.html, (10/06/2005).
http://showme.physics.drexel.edu/thury/summary_writing.html, 10/06/2005).
http:///www.greenville.edu/faculty/dosthart/howsumm.html, (10/06/2005).

Lecture 4
CHAPTER I: THE PROBLEM

Chapter I: THE PROBLEM

Introduction
Background of the Study
Statement of the Problem
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
(Research Hypothesis)
Significance of the Study
Scope and Limitations of the Study
Definition of Terms

Introduction

The primary goal of the introductory paragraphs is to catch the attention of the readers
and to get them turned on about the subject. It sets the stage for the paper and puts your topic in
perspective. The introduction often contains the general statements about the need for the study
and illustrations or quotes to set the tone. It also includes legal bases such as relevant
pronouncements from authorities, memoranda, orders, laws and guidelines.

Guidelines in Writing Introduction

1. Describe the problem situation by considering global, national, and local situation and
using the deductive line of reasoning, from macroperspective to microperspective.

2. Justify the existence of the problem situation by citing statistical data and authoritative
sources (related studies and literature, constitutions, laws, orders, ordinance,
circulars, memoranda, rules and the like) as bases to support the problem.

3. Indicate what is wrong in the present system and explain the desire to discover ways
of enriching or improving something, thus the conduct of the study.

4. Cite motives and justification in the conduct of the study thus, a clinching statement is
made to relate the background of the study to the research problem.

5. Maintain an objective tone throughout the paper. Keep in mind that a research paper is
a formal exposition of a research problem, not a forum for personal opinion.
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 6. Present the introduction in two to three pages using the third person point of view.

Move 1 Establishing a territory

Step 1 Claiming Centrality and /or

Step 2 Making topic generalisation(s) and/ or

Step 3 Reviewing items of previous research (literature

review)

Move 2 Establishing a niche

Step 1 Counter-claiming OR

Step 1B Indicating a gap OR

Step 1C Question (problem) raising OR

Step 1D Continuing a tradition

Move 3 Occupying the niche

Step 1A Outlining purpose(s) OR

Step 1B Announcing present research (hypothesis)

Step 2 Announcing principal findings

Step 3 Indicating essay structure

Move 1 Establishing a research territory

Step 1 Claiming centrality

Show that the research is significant and from a well established research area.

The increasing interest in …. has heightened the need for ….

Of particular interest and complexity are …..
In recent years, researchers have become interested in …..
Recently there has been wide interest in …
The relationship between …. and …. has been studied by many authors.
Knowledge of …. has great importance for …
The study of ….. has become an important aspect of ….
The effect of ….. has been studied extensively in recent years.
Many investigators have recently turned to …
A central issue in ……. is…..

Step 2 Making a topic generalisation

Give (a) statement(s) about current knowledge or practice.

A standard procedure for assessing …. has been ….

There is now much evidence to support the hypothesis that ……
The relationship between …… and …….. is still not completely understood.
Recently there has been growing interest in ……
The possibility of …… has generated wide interest in …..
The development of ……is a classic problem in …….
Knowledge of …….. has great importance for …….

Step 3 Reviewing items of previous research (Literature Review)

Relate what has been found with who found it and take a stance towards the findings themselves.

Easterly (2001) argues that ………………...

Similarly Kompas (2003) notes/reports that ………………
On the other hand Grafton (2004) finds that ……..

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However Liu’s (1999) findings suggest/show that ……
In contrast, Melville (2005) demonstrates/proposes that …….
Taken together, these studies indicate ….

Move 2 Establishing a niche

Step 1 Counter claim

However, the research has focussed on ….. rather than ….
However, these results suffer from some limitations ….
Yet there is little research on ….

Step 2 Indicating a gap

Emphasis has been on …. with scant attention given to …..
Although considerable research has been done on ….. much less is known about ….

Step 3 Question/problem –raising

A key problem is ….
A question remains whether …..

Move 3 Occupying the niche

Step 1 Outlining purposes
The purpose of this research is …….
The aim of this paper is to give …..
This research was designed to evaluate …
The present work extends the use of the last model ….
This paper argues that ……
The purpose of this investigation is to ….
Thus this study extends the findings of the previous work by …..
The research problem(s) is (are) …..

Step 2 Announcing principal findings

The results suggest ……

Step 3 Indicating structure of the paper

This paper is structured as follows. Section 2 gives …..
The remainder of the paper is divided into five sections. Section 2 describes ….
The rest of this paper is organised as follows. Section 2 …..

Source:
Swales, J., 1990. Genre Analysis: English in academic and research settings, Cambridge
University Press, Cambridge.

SAMPLE:
Introduction
The surge of foreign direct investment (FDI) especially in developing countries can be explained by the manifold benefits
from such inflows. These include increased source of capital, job opportunities and enhancement of technology transfer.
Through this, FDI is recognized as one of the growth enhancing factors. As a result, its effect on growth has been analyzed
in many empirical studies though results show a mixed outcome. One group of outcome claims that FDI has a positive
growth effect (Dees 1998; Lipsey 2002) while the other argues a weak link (Borensztein et al 1998; Carkovic and Levine
2002). More recent literature suggests that in order to take advantage of the benefits of FDI, host economies should possess
certain threshold level of education or technology as indicators of development (Balasubramanyam et al. 1996; Borensztein
et al. 1998; Alfaro et al. 2004;).

From the empirical literature of this nature, two observations are noted. First, most of these studies use panel and cross
country regressions because of the advantages that can be derived from these methods. However, individual country
experiences as well as country specific structure and institutions are not captured in these models. Second, FDI are
commonly distributed into the different sectors of the economy. However, the specific impact of each sector on growth as a
result of this inflow is given scant attention in the literature.

Generally this research aims to determine the effect of FDI on Philippine economic growth and use time series analysis as
the empirical method. Specifically, it aims to first test if the Philippine experience supports the ‘Bhagwati hypothesis’. If so
this implies that the export oriented regime (EP) provides a more conducive environment for FDI to positively affect growth
than an import substitution (IS) regime (De Mello 1997).

TGAni - itThesis
Secondly, intends toWriting
find the sector specific impact of FDI on growth. The Philippines is chosen because of the following
reasons. First, the country is one of the major recipients of FDI in Asia (ADB 2004:218). The fact that the country adopts IS
regime in the mid 1960s then later changed to EP, the linkage between trade and FDI and its effect on growth can be shown.
Lastly, FDI inflows are distributed into the different sectors of the economy.
 This paper has shown that FDI in an EP regime is beneficial to growth thus confirming ‘Bhagwati hypothesis’. Moreover,
the sector specific impact of FDI on growth varies. In particular, FDI inflows in the manufacturing, mining and finance
sector positively influence growth while the agriculture sector does the opposite. Result for the service sector is
insignificant. The rest of the paper is structured as follows. Section 2 gives a literature review and a description of the
analytical framework. Section 3 presents the methodology while section 4 describes the data and identifies the sources .
Section 5 presents the results and findings. Section 6 gives the discussion and analysis. Lastly, section 7 discusses the
conclusions, limitations of the research and the recommendations.
Source: Romero, Ramona I., 2006. Foreign Direct Investment and Growth: The Philippines’ Case, Quantitative International Economics
Paper, MIDEC, Australian National University.

Background of the Study

 This is a discussion of the research problem focusing on a more specific area of concern
(i.e., brief background f the company, current issues and concerns etc.)

 It should also include a discussion of researcher’s rationale for conducting the

study

SAMPLE:

Background of the Study

The researchers chose to study the level of awareness of policyholders in Lipa City on insurance

companies’ financial strength.

This is conducted due to the downfall of College Assurance Plan popularly known as CAP in 2005 which

affected large number of its policyholders. The CAP group of companies began in 1980 with the birth of its mother

company – College Assurance Plan. CAP has since expanded its business to the areas of Pre–need Pension, Distance

Learning, Health Maintenance, Life Insurance, Information Technology, Financing, Communications and General

Insurance. (Urlanda, 1988). It made the researchers wonder if their policyholders knew the company’s current

financial status.

Insurance Code which says that insurance companies are required to publish in two newspapers of general

circulation in the city of Manila, one published in English and one in Filipino, a full sypnosis of its annual financial

statement showing fully the conditions of its business. It made them think of how aware or inform the policyholders

are concerning the insurer’s financial strength. This study became their interest for everyone must know the

importance of awareness in the financial condition of an insurance company’s financial condition before dealing with

them and entrusting their money.

Risks are available inside and outside the home school and workplace. It is one of the factors that results

into management problems in their finances and in different aspects of their operation. It is therefore logical for the

people in the community most especially to the potential clients of insurance companies to carefully choose insurer

which have the capabiltiy to continue its operation in spite of financial distress.

Source: Luna, Raquel and Boo, Chinee Marie, 2009. Policyholders’Level of Awareness on Insurance Companies’
Financial Strength, Undergraduate Thesis, Batangas State University

Statement of the Problem

• Research problem and research objectives have the same characteristics (SMART) but
they differ in form because the former is stated in interrogative or question form and the
latter in declarative form

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 • There are two problems to state: the general (main or major) problem and the specific
(minor) problems or sub-problems. The statement of the problem is the focal point of your
research. The general statement is just one sentence accompanied by several specific
statements into which the general problem is broken up. Usually, the general problem
starts with the phrase, This study..... while the sub-problems begin with..... Specifically,
this study.....

Guidelines in Writing the Specific Problems

1. Arranged them in a logical order (factual to analytical) following the flow in the research
paradigm.

2. State them specifically using grammatically correct language of research without

duplicating or over lapping other sub-problems.

3. Provide corresponding statistical tool for each specific problem requiring such. (if
applicable)

4. Utilize only completely researchable topic (not answerable by only yes or no).

SAMPLE:

Statement of the Problem

This study attempts to test the validity of the Bhagwati Hypothesis in the Philippine case and to analyze
the sector specific impact of foreign direct investment on growth.
Specifically, this study ought to answer the following questions:

1. What is the status of the Philippines in terms of the following:

1.1 foreign direct investment in terms of:
1.1.1 manufacturing
1.1.2 service
1.1.3 agriculture
1.1.4 finance
1.1.5 mining
1.2 Gross Domestic Product growth rate
1.3 Trade
1.4 Aggregate Production Function Variables
1.4.1 Labor
1.4.2 Capital
1.4.3 Human Capital Stock
2. What is the effect of FDI on growth using the aggregate production function as framework?

3. What is the effect of FDI on growth when the aggregate production function is used and the Bhagwati
Hypothesis is applied?\

4. What is the sector specific impact of FDI on growth when the aggregate production function is used
and when the Bhagwati Hypothesis is applied?

5. What policies can be enhanced based on the result of the study?

Source: Dinglasan, Wendel and Gumapac. Ma Angelica, 2009. Expalining FDI-Growth Nexus Using
Bhagwati Hypotheisis, Undergraduate Thesis, Batangas State University.

================================================================================

Statement of the Problem

This study attempts to determine policyholders’ level of awareness on insurance companies’
financial strength. Specifically, this study seeks answers to the following questions:

1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:

1.1 age;
1.2 gender;
1.3 educational attainment; and
1.4 number of years as policyholder?

2. Based on the types of policyholders, what is their level of awareness on insurance companies’
financial strength related to:
2.1 stability;
2.2 liquidity; and
2.3 solvency?

3. How do the responses of the three types of policyholders compare?

4. Is there a significant relationship between the profile variables of the respondents and the level of
awareness on insurance companies’ financial strength?

5. What may be the implications of the findings of the study on the policyholders and insurance
companies?

Source: Luna, Raquel and Boo, Chinee Marie, 2009. Policyholders’Level of Awareness on Insurance Companies’
Financial Strength, Undergraduate Thesis, Batangas State University

TGAni - Thesis Writing

Theoretical Framework

• Shapes the justification of the research problem/research objectives in order to provide

legal basis for defining its parameters

• A symbolic construction which uses abstract concepts, facts or laws, variables and their
relations that explains and predicts how an observed phenomenon exists and operates

A theoretical framework guides research, determining what variables to measure, and what
statistical relationships to look for. Trochim (2006) in The Research Methods Knowledge Base,
states that there are two realms involved in research—theory and observation. Theory is what
goes on inside the heads of scientists while observation is what goes on in the real world or
measures and observations. In conducting research, one works between these two realms.
Theory guides every aspect of research, from formulation of the research question through
operationalization and discussion.

Uses of theoretical framework

In “How to Write a successful Research Grant Application: A Guide for Social and Behavioral
Scientists, Gregory Herek writes that the theoretical framework strengthens the researcher’s
research in several ways:

1. Explicit statement of the theoretical assumptions permits them to be evaluated critically.

2. The theoretical framework connects the researcher to existing knowledge. Guided by a

relevant theory, researchers have a basis for their hypotheses and choice of research methods.

3. Articulating the theoretical assumptions of a research study forces the researcher to address
questions of why and how. It permits researchers to move from simply describing a phenomenon
observed to generalizing about various aspects of that phenomenon.

4. Having a theory helps to identify the limits to those generalizations. A theoretical framework
specifies which key variables influence a phenomenon of interest. It alerts the researcher to
examine how those key variables might differ in varied populations

How to develop the theoretical framework

To develop the theoretical framework, here is a useful guide

1. Examine your thesis title or topic and research problem.

2. Brainstorm on what you consider to be the key variables in your research. Answer the
question: What factors contribute to the presumed effect (dependent variable)?

3. Read and review related literature to find answers to your research question.

4. List list the constructs and variables that might be relevant to your study. Group variables into
independent and dependent.

5. Review the theories (management, marketing, economics, social science etc.,) and choose
the theory that can best explain the relationships between the key variables in your study.

6. Discuss the assumptions or propositions of this theory and point out their relevance to your
research.

Some tips

It is easy to err in the choice of appropriate theory. Read the theories carefully and make sure
they make sense to your proposed research. Consult your thesis adviser, research instructor or
favorite instructor about your choice of theory.

The theoretical framework is not a stand-alone copy and paste operation where you Google the
theory and voila you copy and paste what wikipedia churns out. A theory is selected on the basis
of how best it can explain the relationships among the variables. There should be a connection
between the theoretical framework, conceptual framework, operationalization, and instrument.

TGAni - Thesis Writing

Source: http://devcompage.com/2009/08/20/writing-the-thesis-outline-theoretical-framework/

Conceptual Framework

• Presents specific and well defined concepts which are called constructs (derived from
abstract concepts of the theoretical framework)

Variable

• A variable is defined as a quantity or a characteristics that has two or more mutually

exclusive values of properties (Sevilla et.al, 1992)

Types of variable

1. Independent variable – the stimulus variable which is chosen by the researcher to

determine its relationship to an observed phenomenon

2. Dependent variable – the response variable which is observed and measured to determine
the effect of the independent variable

3. Moderate variable – this is the secondary or special type of independent variable chosen
by the researcher to ascertain if it alters or modifies the relationships between the
dependent and independent variables

4. Control variable – a variable controlled by the researcher in which the effects can be
neutralized by eliminating or removing variable

5. Intervening variable – a variable which interferes with the dependent and independent
variables but its effect can either strengthen or weaken the dependent and independent
variables

A framework is simply the structure of the research idea or concept and how it is put together. A
conceptual framework elaborates the research problem in relation to relevant literature. This
section may summarize the major (dependent and independent) variables in your research. The
framework may be summarized in a schematic diagram that presents the major variables and
their hypothesized relationships. It should also cover the following:

 Existing research and its relevance for your topic

 Key ideas or constructs in your approach
 Identify and discuss the variables related to the problem.
 Conceptualized relationships between variables

Independent variables (presumed cause)

Dependent variables (presumed effect)
Intervening variables (other variables that influence the effect of the independent
variable)

 Present a schematic diagram of the relationships between key variables and discuss the
relationship of the elements/variables

Examples:

1) Independent Dependent

FDI on
Agriculture Economic
Manufacturing Growth
Service
Finance
Mining

2) Input Process Output

3) Own devised framework according to study

TGAni - Thesis Writing

Hypothesis of the Study

• A hypothesis is defined as a wise guess that is formulated and temporarily adopted to

explain the observed facts covered by the study

• Guides the investigator in that it describes the procedure to follow in conducting the study

• Tells the investigator what to do and how to go about solving a research problem

• The research hypothesis is the statement of your assumptions about the prevalence of a
phenomenon or about a relationship between two variables that you plan to test within
the framework of the study. Hypothesis is required if insignificant relationship or
difference between or among variables is measured.

• Hypotheses are necessary because: 1) the researcher needs to have some points
around which the researcher may be oriented in terms of researching for relevant data; 2)
they allow us to comprehend on the research project and the motives of the researcher.

• Hypotheses are neither proved nor disproved. They are tested, hypotheses have nothing
to so with proof, rather, they are dependent for their acceptance or rejection upon the
determination of what the facts reveal.

Guidelines in Stating the Hypothesis/es

1. States expected relationship between two or more variables as answers to the problems

2. Utilize testable, specific, and measurable hypothesis

3. Formulate hypothesis at .05 or .01 level of significance for decision making purposes.

4. State only the null hypothesis

Types of hypothesis

– Null hypothesis (Ho) – a denial of an existence of an attribute, a relationship, or a

difference of an effect stated in negative form

– Alternative hypothesis (Ha) – affirmation of the existence of an observed

phenomena stated in positive form

Sample :

Ho: There is no significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their
perception regarding corruption in the Philippines

Ha: There is a significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their
perception regarding corruption in the Philippines

Note: Present only the null hypothesis (Ho)

Scope and Limitations of the Study

• Includes the coverage of the study area, the subjects, the research instruments, the
research issues and concerns, the duration of the study and constraints that have direct
bearing on the results of the study

• Need to address the following:

a. WHAT – briefly state the concerns and issues covered in study including the chosen
variables

b. WHO – indicate the chosen variables for the study and the segmentation variables
used

c. WHEN – state the period covered in the study

d. WHERE- the location where the study was conducted

TGAni - Thesis Writing

 e. HOW – briefly describe the methodology used

f. WHY- indicate justifications for the different issues and concerns (i.e., chosen
variables, respondents chosen, etc.,

 The study should indicate the coverage of the study (scope), the weaknesses and
shortcomings (limitation)

 In writing this section, the first paragraph is the introductory paragraph, the second
paragraph should contain the scope, and the third paragraph should contain the limitation
and delimitation of the study.

Significance of the Study

• This section provides the practical values the study has specifically pointing out to whom
the study will be most useful (beneficiaries/end-users) and why the study would be useful
to them.

• Is presented in either inductive (particular to general) or deductive (general to particular)

perspective

• The investigator should prove that the study has important contributions in relation to:

a. solving the problem and need

b. bridging a knowledge gap

c. Improving social, economic and health conditions

d. Enriching research instruments and methods

e. Supporting government thrusts

Definition of Terms

• Technical terms and terms which are oftenly used in the study but have different
interpretations, or terms that may be misinterpreted, must have to be defined. These
terms can be found in the research title, statement of the problem, hypothesis, and
research paradigm.

• Conceptual definition – based on concepts or hypothetic ones which are usually taken
from the dictionary

• Use relevant books as source of definition (marketing books, HRM books, etc.,

• Avoid using internet (i.e., Wikipedia, etc.,) as source of definition

• Operational definition – based on observable characteristics and how it is used in the

study

Guidelines in Defining Terms

1. Use introductory sentence/paragraph before defining the terms.

2. Arrange the terms alphabetically.

3. Indent and follow each term with a period.

4. Emphasize the terms to be defined by making the text bold.

5. do not number the terms being defined like 1.,2.,3., and so on.

6. Capitalize only the first letter of each term.

7. Write the conceptual definition and source, followed by the operational meaning. Use
complete sentences in giving definitions.

TGAni - Thesis Writing

 Educational attainment. It refers to varying degrees of growth or expansion of knowledge,

wisdom, desirable qualities of mind, physical health or general competence, especially by course of

formal study or instructions (Palispis, 2007). In this study, it was categorized as elementary

undergraduate, elementary graduate, highschool undergraduate, highschool graduate, college

undergraduate, college graduate and post graduate.

SOURCE : Calmorin, M., and Paler-Calmorin, L., 2003. Methods of Research and Thesis Writing

REQUIREMENTS FOR THESIS/DISSERTATION:

1. Researchable Problem
2. Statement of the Problem
3. Theoretical Framework

TGAni - Thesis Writing