Dissertation Marking Criteria
Introduction (10%)
Produces a clear and concise executive summary, which summarises the whole of the research.
Produces a clear statement of the research objectives and or questions
Situates the research within an organisational and literature context.
Demonstrates why the research was worth doing and who the key stakeholders are.
Literature Review (20%)
Critically analyses the literature relevant to the research questions and or objectives.
Demonstrates how the literature has informed the research.
Defines working concepts and conceptual frameworks (themes) which have guided data collection and analysis.
Methodology (20%)
Demonstrates use of methodological concepts and how they relate to the research undertaken.
Explains and justifies the philosophical stance, strategy and methods utilised to address the research questions/ objectives.
Considers the criteria used to ensure ‘credible research’.
Discusses steps taken to ensure ‘ethical’ research.
Research results (15%)
Analyses the data and presents this in a user friendly and informative way.
Ensures analysis is informed by previously defined concepts and conceptual frameworks (themes).
Ensures analysis informs the research objectives/questions.
Discussion and Conclusions (15%)
Justifies the interpretation of the data.
Draws together and integrates data and conceptual framework(s) (themes).
Makes a persuasive business case for conclusions reached which supports the recommendations section.
Makes it explicit how the research objectives/questions have been achieved.
Recommendations (15%)
Draws together key points from the conclusion to inform the recommendations.
Provides recommendations that are persuasive, realistic, timely and cost-effective.
Produces a credible action plan, this can include cost benefit analysis and measurement relevant to the organisation.
Professional presentation (5%)
Writes with a logical structure, chapters and sections flow logically.
Uses appropriate and consistent referencing.
Uses appendices appropriately.
