If every dissertation collects evidence of some sort, then it goes without saying that such evidence needs to
be analysed appropriately and presented effectively. Some thought needs to be given about the nature of the
techniques used to analyse the ‘evidence’ or ‘data’. The text by Finn et al (2000) outlines a number of
analytical techniques which are particularly relevant. However, remember that your analysis has a purpose –
to answer the questions outlined in the literature review.
You have to sift and sort through the material and use it to develop an effective analysis.
Where possible you need to relate your findings to the work of others. Does the research reinforce the work
of others, does it challenge the ‘received’ view or does it suggest that our understanding needs refinement or
amendment?
So the analysis is more than a presentation of ‘information’, it is also a discussion in the light of what I have
summarised earlier.
This is a Theory or literature based:
This involves comparing, evaluating and reflecting on alternative theories drawn from the literature relating
to a particular topic area. In addition to constructing logical theoretical arguments, You will be expected to
discuss the practical implications of the findings.
These are the Learning Objectives that a dissertation needs to tackle:
LO1 Articulate, in writing, an ability to organise and present material on a chosen topic, and justify the
chosen approach to the topic
LO2 Demonstrate, within the context of the written dissertation, the ability to evaluate, critically, primary
and secondary materials
LO3 Deploy skills of observation and analysis, and reflect on the usefulness and appropriateness of those
skills
LO4 Demonstrate, by means of the finished written work, a comprehensive understanding of research
methodologies and research methods
LO5 Covey, in writing, capability as a reflective, original and critical thinker who can master a topic and
present it cogently
In short: I want the writer to provide me with a Data Analysis chapter that uses critical thinking all the way
through. I leave the freedom of choice of the direction that the writer wants to go and what he wants to
include AS LONG AS the chapter wont contradict anything that has been said before. He can add any
additional data or reusults / graphs / maps/ anything that is desired by the writer AS LONG AS it goes along
with the work that is already being done as I dont have time to change everything else.