Category: Final Major Projects and Thesis

Continue with Methodologies

The Golden Thread

The Golden Thread refers to the clear and logical connection between a research project’s aim, objectives, and goals. This alignment ensures coherence and consistency throughout the study.

1. Research Aim (High-Level Statement)

The research aim articulates the overarching purpose of the study. It should be stated clearly and concisely, providing a broad indication of what the research seeks to explore or achieve.

Example:

• Topic: Employees’ experiences of digital transformation in retail Human Resources (HR)
• Research Aim: This study aims to explore employees’ experiences of digital transformation within the context of retail HR.

2. Research Objectives

Research objectives break down the broader aim into specific, actionable components. They outline the steps that will be taken to achieve the aim and should be framed in a way that guides the research methodology and analysis.

• Clearly describe each objective.
• Ensure objectives are focused and feasible within the scope of the research.
• They should collectively address the research aim in a systematic manner.

3. Research Goals (Following the SMART Framework)

Research goals should adhere to the SMART criteria to ensure they are practical and effective in guiding the project:

• Specific: Clearly defined and unambiguous.
• Measurable: Include criteria for tracking progress and measuring outcomes.
• Achievable: Realistic and attainable within the available resources and timeframe.
• Relevant: Aligned with the broader research aim and scholarly or practical needs.
• Time-bound: Defined by a clear timeline or deadline.

Things to bear in mind when writing

Note-Taking Tips:

• When taking notes, particularly while quoting or summarizing specific phrases, it is essential to clearly distinguish between direct quotations and paraphrased content.
• Use quotation marks (“”) to denote direct quotes. For paraphrased material, indicate clearly that the content is a summary in your own words.
• This practice is crucial because, over time, it becomes increasingly difficult to recall whether a specific phrase was directly quoted or paraphrased, which can lead to issues of accuracy or unintentional plagiarism during the writing process.

Lesson Summary

In today’s lesson, we revisited key concepts in research methodology, with particular emphasis on the distinction between primary (first-hand) and secondary (second-hand) research. Our tutor also underscored the critical importance of credibility in academic writing. Specifically, we were reminded of the necessity to properly credit all sources used in our theses to uphold academic integrity and avoid potential legal or ethical violations.

Additionally, we were encouraged to consider several essential criteria when selecting sources and developing our academic essays:

• Truth Value: The reliability and accuracy of information must be assessed, especially given the abundance of misinformation available online.
• Applicability: The relevance of a source to the research topic is crucial. Irrelevant information can undermine the clarity and coherence of the essay, making it unnecessarily lengthy and imprecise.
• Consistency: Maintaining a clear and focused argument throughout the essay is vital. All supporting points should align with the central thesis to ensure logical flow and cohesion.
• Neutrality: Adopting an objective tone enhances the professionalism of an academic text. In the past, I often incorporated online sources without adhering to a structured evaluative process. This session highlighted the importance of critical source selection and the value of presenting information impartially.

We also discussed the need for transparency in the research process. For example, if surveys are conducted, it is important to include appendices detailing respondent demographics and responses to ensure clarity and replicability.

Furthermore, the rationale behind various stages of the research process was explored—for instance, the justification for conducting a literature review. One particularly clear definition of method was offered: it refers to the specific steps involved in conducting research. These steps might include initial investigation, data collection, drafting, analysis, and so forth.

To deepen our understanding, we also examined insights from Yilmaz, who explains that quantitative and qualitative research methods represent distinct but equally valid approaches. Each is based on different philosophical foundations and employs its own frameworks, procedures, and techniques. It is therefore important for educational researchers—especially those at the graduate level—to develop familiarity with both approaches to choose the most appropriate one for their research objectives.

This reflection helped to consolidate my understanding of the foundational elements of academic research and underscored the importance of structure, critical evaluation, and methodological rigor.

We also watched a video in class to deepen our understanding of frameworks and their influence on the conclusions we draw. The video began with a simple example and then progressed to a more complex scenario to illustrate the concept. It showed that when a child receives a pet, they interpret the animal based on pre-existing frameworks—mental structures developed through prior experiences. For instance, the child may dismiss unrelated categories such as toys or plants and then classify the pet as a dog or a cat based on familiar characteristics like having four legs. This may occur even if the animal is actually a horse or a zebra. The example emphasized the importance of having a diverse and accurate set of frameworks to interpret new information correctly.

In the context of interviews, the video explained that interviewers may also apply different frameworks—essentially their perspectives or biases—when interacting with various interviewees. For example, an introverted candidate might be interpreted differently depending on the interviewer’s framework, potentially affecting the outcome of the interview.

This lesson was particularly enlightening for me, as I had previously assumed that frameworks were concepts confined to academic writing. I now realize that they are commonly used in everyday life, often unconsciously, and that being aware of them can improve both our academic analysis and real-world interactions.

1. Another key takeaway from the session was a practical approach to identifying relevant frameworks for our research topics. The process begins with clearly understanding the topic and identifying its core keywords—for example, terms such as IT, art, or environment. These keywords serve as the foundation for conducting further research.
2. Once the keywords are established, the next step involves performing a targeted Google search by combining the keyword with the term “framework” (e.g., “Business Strategy Framework”). The initial visual results, particularly the first 20 images, can provide insight into common frameworks associated with the topic. Visual representations that include directional arrows are particularly useful, as they often indicate logical flow or structural relationships within the framework.
3. After identifying a potentially useful framework image, it is essential to verify its academic credibility. This can be done by checking whether the framework appears in scholarly sources, such as research papers found through Google Scholar. If the framework is cited in peer-reviewed literature, it is advisable to examine the original context and description provided by the authors.
4. Further, reviewing additional academic papers that reference or apply the same framework can provide a deeper understanding of its applicability. Searching for terms such as “extension” in these papers may also reveal expanded or modified versions of the framework, offering more nuanced insights relevant to the research topic.
5. This method ensures that the selected framework is not only visually comprehensible but also academically valid and appropriately aligned with the objectives of the research.

How to define/ find a good topic?

According to Research.com, it is crucial to narrow down your research question when beginning a study. Given the constraints of word limits and the need for a focused thesis, it is essential to select a specific field of inquiry to ensure that the research remains clear and manageable. Below are the key steps for effectively narrowing down a research question.

Steps to Defining a Good Research Topic:

1. Topic Knowledge: Begin by gaining a solid understanding of the topic you are interested in. This foundational knowledge will guide your decision-making process.
2. Formulating a Working Question: Based on your knowledge of the topic, draft a working research question. This question should be broad enough to allow for exploration, but specific enough to provide clear direction.
3. Conducting Preliminary Research: Investigate existing literature to refine your question. This step will help you identify gaps in the current body of knowledge and further narrow your focus.
4. Establishing an Appropriate Timeframe: Consider the timeframe within which your study will take place. For example, when will the events or phenomena mentioned in your thesis occur? Defining this timeframe will make your research question more focused and manageable.
5. Choosing Between Qualitative and Quantitative Research: As discussed in previous lessons, understanding whether your research will be qualitative or quantitative is essential.
   • Quantitative Research: Quantitative research questions establish a clear link between the research question and the research design. These questions typically cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no” response. Additionally, quantitative questions avoid using terms such as “is,” “are,” “do,” or “does.” Rather, they are framed in a way that allows for the measurement and analysis of data.
   • Qualitative Research: Qualitative research questions, in contrast, tend to be more open-ended and flexible. These questions are often designed to “discover,” “explain,” or “explore” particular phenomena. They may address broad or specific areas of study, and they are typically non-directional and adaptable (Creswell, 2013). Qualitative research is often used when the aim is to understand deeper, contextual meanings.

Research Frameworks for Structuring Your Topic:

There are several frameworks that can assist in constructing a clear and focused research question. Two commonly used frameworks are the PICOT and PEO models.

• The PICOT Framework: Introduced in 1995 by Richardson et al., the PICOT framework is widely used in clinical and evidence-based research. It helps structure research questions by addressing the key elements of the study, including the population, intervention, comparison group, outcome, and timeframe. The components of the PICOT framework are as follows:
  • P: Population, patients, or problem
  • I: Intervention or indicator being studied
  • C: Comparison group
  • O: Outcome of interest
  • T: Timeframe of the study
• Example: “In adult patients with chronic pain (P), does acupuncture (I) compared to traditional pain medication (C) reduce pain levels (O) within six months (T)?”
• The PEO Framework: The PEO framework is particularly useful for qualitative research. It includes the following elements:
  • P: Population being studied
  • E: Exposure to preexisting conditions or factors
  • O: Outcome of interest
• The PEO framework is ideal for research that seeks to understand experiences or perceptions within a given population, especially when a comparative group or intervention is not the primary focus.

Avoid Vague Terminology:

It is important to avoid using vague terms such as “explore” in the formulation of your research topic. While “explore” might seem appealing, it is often too broad and does not provide enough direction. A well-defined research topic should be specific in every aspect to ensure clarity and focus.

Update on my Literature Review

Developing an argument

In today’s lesson, we explored the fundamental principles of constructing a well-developed argument. A crucial aspect of this process is identifying the core message one wishes to convey and determining the areas of greatest personal interest.

Beyond individual preferences, there are established guidelines that can enhance the clarity and coherence of an argument. For instance, when structuring a paragraph, it is essential to include a thesis statement, a supporting reason, a premise, a counterargument, and a conclusion. Incorporating these elements ensures that the argument remains clear, logically structured, and comprehensive, ultimately strengthening the overall effectiveness of the thesis.

By adhering to these principles, one can develop arguments that are not only well-organized but also compelling and academically rigorous.

Update on my Literature Review

Metamorphosis in Animation

Symbols can hold varied meanings depending on the context in which they are presented. In today’s lesson, we explored a range of animations that deviated from the conventional format, where stories typically follow a specific, linear narrative. Instead, these animations adopted a more experimental approach, incorporating symbolic elements. For instance, the use of a paper-folding woman was employed to represent her constrained role and position within a relationship, highlighting the subtle complexities of her social context.

Key aspects of metamorphosis include

1) Transition

2) Loop

One notable advantage of metamorphosis is the ease of transition. Unlike other narrative techniques, metamorphosis allows for seamless shifts in form or perspective without requiring complex connections between scenes. A simple camera turn or a blank screen can effectively mark the transition, eliminating the need for direct continuity. This flexibility makes it an effective tool in visual storytelling, offering room for creative exploration without the constraints of linear progression.

Alternatively, one could create a real-life stop-motion music video, utilizing a variety of props such as fruits, clothing, flowers, and more.

There is also one particular music video that captivates me, which primarily utilizes a wiggly line as its animation. This style brings to mind many contemporary music videos on platforms like YouTube, where the animation tends to be simple yet dynamic, often featuring continuous movement without complex designs. However, during the time when animation was still in its early stages, such an approach would have been highly experimental and a significant innovation in the field.

I am also particularly intrigued by this.

This is an example of one of metamorphosis’s key features—Looping. Despite the continuous repetition of the same elements, the animation manages to maintain the viewer’s interest. The smoothness of the transitions, coupled with the thoughtful selection and synchronization of sound and music, ensures that the viewer remains engaged and captivated, unable to look away from the screen.

Additionally, the clever inclusion of iconic characters—such as Hello Kitty, SpongeBob, Donald Duck, and Mickey Mouse—morphing into one another offers a satirical commentary on these widely recognized figures, highlighting their shared characteristics. As the transformations become more pronounced, the color scheme evolves from a muted black-and-white palette to a vibrant, colorful tone, further enhancing the dynamic nature of the animation.

Update for the Thesis Research

As part of my ongoing research, I have begun reviewing a selection of online essays and academic readings, along with books I have borrowed. Several of these sources provide valuable insights and align closely with my topic. I have compiled these materials into my research document, where they will be systematically organized for further analysis.

In addition to literary sources, I plan to conduct a structured study of animated films such as Toy Story, Inside Out, Coco, Monsters University, and Up. By rewatching these films, I aim to critically analyze their narrative structures, character development, and thematic elements. This process will allow me to collect primary data, enhancing the accuracy and depth of my research.

This dual approach—integrating scholarly literature with film analysis—will provide a well-rounded foundation for my study, enabling a comprehensive exploration of the topic.

Literature Review

What is a Literature Review?

A literature review is a fundamental component of academic writing, typically placed at the beginning of a paper. It serves to inform readers about the specific research that has been conducted on the topic and provides a comprehensive overview of existing literature. This section not only presents the context of the research but also demonstrates how the study fits into the broader field, offering valuable insights into the subject matter. In essence, the literature review serves as the foundation upon which the research is built.

Like most essays and scholarly articles, a literature review typically consists of the following sections:

Introduction

• An introduction to the key theories and concepts relevant to the area of study or research interest.

Main Body

• A structured organization of sources, starting from broader concepts and narrowing down to more specific aspects of the topic.
• An identification of gaps or limitations in the existing research.

Conclusion

• A concise summary of the review, illustrating how the existing literature informs and supports the research, while also highlighting areas for further investigation.

In summary, the literature review functions as a narrative of prior research, helping to organize the overall structure of the essay and guiding the direction of the new research.

Referencing

References

References play a crucial role in academic writing by allowing readers to trace the origin of sources and assess their credibility. It is essential to ensure that the references used in research are accurate and derived from primary sources, rather than secondary sources such as websites that merely quote the original material.

Several tools and websites are available to assist with proper referencing:

• Zotero
  https://www.zotero.org
• EndNote
  https://endnote.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqJQH4ju2mjZwt9KPkPqCgitNfGJrpV4eODsqx8qCaKF5w9xg00
• Mendeley
  https://www.mendeley.com

Additionally, when citing the names of films, video games, or similar works, they should be italicized. Furthermore, the first mention of a film or other significant work should include the name of the director and the year of release.

Research Topic Update

About the Topic:

Initially, my research topic was titled “Emotional Engagement and Visual Metaphors in Pixar’s Narrative Tropes: A Critical Analysis of Character Development and Audience Connection.” However, after discussing the topic with my tutor, he suggested that while the subject was promising, it might be more effective to frame it as a research question. Possible alternatives included questions such as “How do Pixar films promote emotional engagement?” or “How do Pixar films differentiate from other animated films?”

Based on this advice, I have decided to revise my research topic to:
“What techniques do Pixar films use to promote emotional engagement, and how do they differ from other animation studios?”

Upon finalizing the topic, I will proceed with conducting research and begin drafting the literature review.