research venue in thesis

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Q: What is meant by the setting of the study?

Describe the setting of where your study is to be conducted.

Asked on 24 Nov, 2020

Simply put, research setting is the physical, social, or experimental context within which research is conducted. In a research paper, describing this setting accurately is crucial since the results and their interpretation may depend heavily on it. For example, in a paper that describes the social behavior of chimpanzees, the authors may need to provide the following details about the research setting: where the chimpanzees were observed (in the wild or in captivity), the number of chimpanzees observed and whether they belonged to the same social group, the geographic location, the period of study, the time of year/weather conditions, the availability of resources like food/water/shelter, presence of environmental threats, and so on.

In a laboratory experiment , the setting is more controlled, so you would need to describe which environmental variables were controlled and how. For example, in a study involving mice, the research setting may include the temperature/humidity and the size of the area/cage in which mice are housed, the light/dark cycles, the food/water available to mice, and whether they are exposed to any pathogens/reagents. In a clinical study involving humans, the setting could be a hospital ward, an outpatient department, a rehabilitation center, or the particpants’ homes.

Research setting is an important component of research design/methodology. If you have been asked to describe the setting of your study, note any aspects related to the environment in which your study is being conducted. You may want to refer to the author guidelines of your target journal to confirm which specific details the journal requires. In addition, during your literature review , focus on how authors of studies similar to yours have described their research settings. You may also want to review the limitations sections of these papers because authors often mention which aspects of their research design/setting may not allow for generalizations.

Hope that helps. For information on writing the Methods section of your paper, you may refer to the following resources:

How to write the Methods section of a research paper
Supply adequate details of items mentioned in the materials and methods section
How to write the perfect methods section [Course]

Note: The last link is a course on R Upskill , a learning programs platform by a sister brand. On R Upskill, you will find many such courses, handbooks, and other programs aimed at helping researchers/academics grow their skills. For a limited period, the courses are free, so do try them out.

For now though, all the best for your paper!

Answered by Editage Insights on 30 Nov, 2020

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12 March, 2021
Academic Writing Skills

There are many ways to share the results of your research. Building a profile as a researcher can help you to become more well known in the field, enhance the visibility of your work, and increase the number of researchers who read your work when it is published in journals. You can share information about your research through a professional website, Twitter, social media platforms such as LinkedIn and by maintaining a research blog. It is also a good idea to communicate with the communications and development offices at your institution to find out about any opportunities to share information through newspaper articles, local television channels, and newsletters. Because peer-reviewed articles generally carry more weight on decisions about retention, tenure, and promotion, academics focus much of their efforts on disseminating research through journals. But there are several venues, in addition to journal publications, that you can use to share your work with others in the field and to build a reputation as a respected researcher. These opportunities can be used as a stepping stone to the publication of full peer-reviewed academic papers. There are many different academic venues to choose from. One such venue is a conference hosted by a professional organization in your field. These are wonderful opportunities to share your work with other academics, as well as elicit input and comment on the research that you are conducting. Professional conferences also provide some great networking opportunities and they are a good first step in building name recognition. You can submit proposals to share your work at local chapters of a professional organization, at national conferences, and at international conferences. You should talk to colleagues about which conferences have the highest reputation in your field and then visit the websites to find out about the proposal submission process. Major professional organizations typically hold a large general conference once a year, and some hold specially themed, smaller meetings or conferences at multiple points across the year. Typically, when you submit a proposal for a conference presentation you choose from several options. Full workshop papers provide you with an opportunity to write a full research paper and present on the results. Many professional organizations have a peer-review process for evaluating proposals and many publish full papers in a proceeding. These generally count in a retention, tenure and promotion process, although they are typically not weighed as heavily as publications in peer-reviewed journal articles. However, this is a great way to write early versions of your research, get your name out there, and gain experience with writing full research papers. You can use these presentation opportunities to get feedback on your paper. For several large conferences, if your paper is accepted, you will be placed in a session with other researchers presenting on a similar topic and your session will be hosted by a chair. If you are early in the research process, and perhaps not quite ready to write a full paper, there are other options for presenting at conferences available to you. A roundtable session generally requires a shorter write-up of your research and can include research projects in progress. In these sessions, you sit with other academics who are conducting research on the same, or a similar topic and you discuss your work. This is an invaluable opportunity to get feedback on your research and to hear ideas about other approaches to researching your topic of interest. Participating in roundtables can also help you move further along the path to a full research paper. Conferences sometimes offer an option for early research projects to be presented through extended abstracts and these can sometimes be presented as a poster. When you choose this option, you will typically prepare a professional poster for display in a large poster session where you stand beside your poster while attendees come by and ask questions. Different rules exist for publishing an article on research that has already be presented at a conference. Often, you will not present the fully completed research paper at a conference, and your analysis will only be a preliminary analysis. This is typically the case for roundtables, abstract presentations, short papers or poster sessions. If this is the case, then in general you can write a full-length article on the completed research and submit for publication in a journal. However, if you submitted a full-length paper that was then published in the conference proceedings, then generally you cannot also submit this for publication in a journal. As the proceedings count as a publication, this would be akin to publishing the same article in two different venues, which is not considered ethical. The submission policy for papers that have been previously published at a conference should be available on any journal website. If you are unsure, you should feel comfortable reaching out to the journal editor and asking about this aspect of their submission policy before preparing and submitting your paper. It is typically acceptable to present your published work at a conference, if the organization hosting the conference allows this. Check the host organization’s policies before you submit an application to present a paper that has already been published. Other venues for publication include edited books where different researchers contribute by writing a book chapter. These books are organized around a topic and often a call will go out for chapter proposals. These books tend to focus on reviews and summaries of research topics. This can be a wonderful opportunity for a collaborative writing experience. Early researchers can work with more seasoned researchers on these chapters and experience the writing and revising process. So, as you make connections with more seasoned colleagues at your institution, or through professional organizations, look for collaborative writing opportunities like this as a first step to experiencing the academic writing process. This also can help you begin to get your name out into the academic world. Publishing articles in top-tier journals is the gold star of academic publishing. These journals generally focus on the publication of completed research. The articles in these journals are usually longer than conference papers and they go through a rigorous peer-review process. Preparing and revising journal articles is a time-intensive process, and often it requires multiple rounds of submission and revision for a paper to be accepted. The reward is that they are typically given the most weight when decisions about tenure and promotion are made. As you consider how best to share your research with the academic world, with the aim being to publish articles in top-tier journals, also consider the opportunities provided by other venues. Availing of a variety of venues will help you to hone your academic writing skills, collaborate with other researchers, gain ideas about how to structure your papers, and start to build a reputation in the field. Charlesworth Author Services, a trusted brand supporting the world’s leading academic publishers, institutions and authors since 1928. We only work with native English-speaking editors with advanced or postdoctoral degrees in their disciplines. Know more about our services here Join us on our FREE series of webinars designed to help the researchers in achieving their publication success. Register here Maximise your publication success with Charlesworth Author Services.

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Choosing the Right Publication Venue: Navigating the Journal Landscape

Choosing the right venue for publishing research is critical and requires careful deliberation. The ideal venue can bring attention to your work, ensure it reaches the appropriate audience, and significantly impact your academic career. However, with the proliferation of academic journals, making this decision can be daunting. This blog post will help you start thinking about the complex landscape of academic publications so you can select the most suitable venue for your work.

Understanding Different Types of Academic Publication Venues

Before embarking on the publication journey, it's important to understand the various types of academic publishing venues available. The table below outlines some common types of journals, books, and other media commonly used in academic publishing.

Academic Journals

Publications focus on specific disciplines or topics, which can be subdivided as follows:

Peer-reviewed Journals: Submissions undergo a rigorous review process by experts in the same field. Some sub-categories include

General journals publish articles from various academic disciplines, catering to a broad readership.

Specialized journals focus on specific subfields or niche areas within a discipline.

Review journals primarily publish review articles that synthesize existing research.

Open-access journals make their content freely available without paywalls or subscription fees.

Predatory journals are deceptive and low-quality venues that do not follow rigorous peer-review processes. Researchers should be cautious when considering publishing in such journals.

Conference Proceedings

Publications that compile papers presented at academic conferences. Conferences often publish papers in a special issue or volume. These papers are peer-reviewed but typically undergo a less rigorous review process than journals. Conference proceedings can be ideal for timely research or fields where the rapid dissemination of results is crucial.

Books and Edited Volumes

Authored books or edited volumes featuring contributions from multiple authors. Books are crucial in academic publishing, especially in the humanities and social sciences. They can be authored by an individual or edited volumes that feature contributions from multiple authors on a specific topic. Academic books provide in-depth analysis, theoretical frameworks, and comprehensive coverage of a subject.

Book Chapters

Chapters within academic books explore specific aspects of a broader topic.

Standalone books providing in-depth analysis of a single subject. They are typically authored by a single researcher or scholar and extensively examine a particular topic or research area.

Research Reports and Technical Papers

Documents presenting findings, methodologies, and analysis in technical or scientific fields. These publications are commonly used in applied fields such as engineering, computer science, and natural sciences. Research reports and technical papers present findings, methodologies, and analyses in a specific technical or scientific domain.

Dissertations and Theses

Academic documents submitted by graduate students as part of research degree requirements. Graduate students submit dissertations or theses as part of their research degree requirements. Although they may not be widely available to the public, they contribute to the academic body of knowledge.

Preprint Servers

Platforms for sharing preliminary research findings before formal peer review and publication. Preprints are preliminary versions of papers that can be freely accessed by the academic community, fostering early dissemination of research.

Online Platforms and Blogs

Websites, blogs, or online platforms where researchers share research findings and insights with a wider audience. While these platforms may not undergo traditional peer review, they provide an avenue for engaging with a broader readership.

Trade Publications

Trade publications are usually geared towards professionals in a specific industry. They typically do not have a peer review process and focus more on practical applications than theoretical contributions.

Choosing the Right Venue

Once you understand the available venues, it's time to choose the right one for your research. Below are the key factors to consider:

Scope and Aim of the Journal:

Ensure the journal's scope aligns with your research topic. The journal's aim and scope can usually be found in the "About" section on the journal's website. Publishing in a journal that doesn't align with your research topic can lead to quick rejection.

Impact Factor:

The impact factor measures the frequency with which the average article in a journal has been cited in a particular year. Journals with higher impact factors are seen as more prestigious and impactful.

Consider who will be reading your research. If you want your work to influence practitioners, a trade publication or a journal known to reach your specific audience may be the most beneficial.

Open Access vs. Subscription Based:

Do you want your work to be freely available to all readers, or are you okay with it being behind a paywall? Open-access journals provide broad dissemination but often incur publication fees.

Speed of Publication:

Depending on your field and the urgency of your research findings, publication speed might be a significant factor.

Indexing and Abstracting Services:

Check whether the journal is indexed in relevant academic databases in your field. This ensures other researchers can easily discover your work.

Journal Reputation and Publisher:

The journal's reputation and its publisher can significantly impact how your work is perceived. Review the editorial board and previously published articles to judge the journal's quality.

Peer Review Process:

A robust peer review process can enhance the quality of your work. However, the process can also be time-consuming. Consider your priorities and select a journal accordingly.

All in all, selecting the right venue for your academic publication is a multi-faceted process that involves balancing numerous factors. By understanding different types of publications and considering factors like scope, impact, and audience, you can find the perfect home for your research and make a meaningful contribution to your field.

Remember, the goal is to get published and ensure your research reaches the right audience and has the maximum possible impact.

If you need support preparing to publish, then consider joining our workshop series, Unlock Your Publishing Potential: How to Elevate Your Research Writing and Publish in High-Impact Journals.

About the Author

Kimberly Becker, Ph.D.

Applied Linguist Specializing in Disciplinary Academic Writing

Kimberly is a lecturer in the English department at Iowa State University (ISU). She has a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics and Technology (ISU, 2022) and an M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language (Northern Arizona University, 2004). Kimberly’s research and teaching experience in disciplinary academic writing has equipped her to support native and non-native English speakers in written, oral, visual, and electronic communication. Her most recent publication is a co-authored e-book for graduate students titled Preparing to Publish , which provides information about composing academic research articles. In her spare time, she enjoys practicing yoga, gardening, and walking with her two poodles.

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How to find a good venue to submit your research paper

4 minute read

Some days ago I made an YouTube live about this topic (in PT-BR, sorry). This blog post is a text version of that video.

Perhaps one essential part of the scientific endeavor is to communicate what you found in your research study to your academic peers. This communication starts when a researcher submits a paper to an academic venue (such as, a conference or a journal). If the paper is accepted, the paper will be published in the conference/journal proceedings, and then could be accessed by anyone interested in the research topic of the paper.

Deciding which venue you will submit your is critical since some venues might have better visibility and reach than others. Actually, although some venues might have a fancy name, they might not have a good reputation. For instance, some venues publish roughly any kind of work (regardless of the quality of the work), if they can charge you money. Young scholars should build their reputation by staying away from bad venues. But how could you distinguish the good from the bad venue?

In this blog post, I’m assuming that the reader is already familiar with paper writing activities, and may already have a paper in good shape for an eventual submission. The question is: how to find the right place to submit your work?

When deciding where to submit your paper, you could sometimes rely on your advisor or your colleagues that participated in the research. Since they might be more senior than you, they might have in mind some good conferences/journals in which you could submit your research work. The list of conferences/journals often comes from their own experience in conducting (and submitting) scientific work. As a junior member of the time, sometimes it’s hard to disagree with the suggestions that your colleagues made, mainly because you might not have other ideas (or perhaps you don’t know if the journal you have in mind is indeed a good one). As a consequence, you may inherit the same taste for submitting papers of your mentors and colleagues.

Although this is a popular way to build your understanding of the research paper submitting process, I’d like to propose an alternative view.

As a young scholar, the chances are that you have on your desk a couple of research papers that are very important to your investigation. Sometimes you have just one, yet fundamental, research paper on your desk. The chances are that you already have read these papers many, many times. You know the method, the results, and every other detail of these papers. If that’s correct, here are some questions for you:

Where was this research paper published? (take note)
Where were the cited papers published? (take notes)
Who is/are the senior author(s) of the research paper? Visit her(their) webpage and see where she publishes her other research work? (take notes)
Do the same for the cited papers (take notes)

If the paper on your desk is relevant for your research, it is likely to be published in a good venue. For instance, if your advisor sent this paper to you, it’s because your advisor knew that paper is a good one. If you found this paper by your own, your search criteria might have excluded many other similar works. If you found this paper by accident, go back do the first step. Assuming the paper in your desk was indeed published in a proper venue, the papers it cites might be of good quality as well. Otherwise, how could that paper be a good one, if it’s not standing on the shoulders of giants?

When doing the proposed exercise, look for some patterns. For instance, although you have been reading and visiting many different research papers published by various researchers in different years, note the most common venues in which these works are published. Bad academic venues can absolutely be found and cited, but only excellent academic venues are cited frequently. Similarly, if the senior author of that research paper is an authority in your field (for instance, she has a robust research contribution over two or more decades), the chances are that she also publishes her research in good venues. Yes, even well-known academics may have one or other publications in obscure journals. Still, the majority of her contributions should be made in good academic venues (and not the opposite).

The outcome of the proposed exercise is a list of the 5–10 most frequent academic conferences/journals that you might have found. This list might be a good proxy of the good venues in your research area. Obviously, this list is not definitive, but it may help you to get started. During your exercise, you definitely have encountered dozes of academic venues, but I suspect that they don’t appear that often (only once in a while). If that journal that keeps inviting you to submit your work is nowhere in the list, you perhaps don’t need to bother with it.

Note that in this blog post, we did not mention anything about rankings. Yes, ranking can be handy here and there. But rankings have a significant shortcoming: they use quantitative metrics to evaluate research. As any quantitative metric, research metrics can be manipulated and inflated. But this is a topic for another blog post.

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Choosing a publication venue

Affiliation.

1 School of Nursing, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402-6170, USA.
PMID: 20637447
DOI: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2009.12.005

The choice of a venue for publication of a manuscript is rarely a clear-cut decision. Several factors should be considered in this decision, such as the audience for whom you are writing, the topic of the manuscript, the purposes for which you are writing, and the journal guidelines. These factors may vary in importance to the author. Examining each factor and plotting the importance visually on a checklist will assist the author in making the decision about where a manuscript should be submitted so that the article will have the desired impact.

Guidelines as Topic
Information Dissemination / methods*
Journal Impact Factor*
Nursing Research*
Periodicals as Topic*
Publishing*

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What is a thesis | A Complete Guide with Examples

A thesis is a comprehensive academic paper based on your original research that presents new findings, arguments, and ideas of your study. It’s typically submitted at the end of your master’s degree or as a capstone of your bachelor’s degree.

However, writing a thesis can be laborious, especially for beginners. From the initial challenge of pinpointing a compelling research topic to organizing and presenting findings, the process is filled with potential pitfalls.

Therefore, to help you, this guide talks about what is a thesis. Additionally, it offers revelations and methodologies to transform it from an overwhelming task to a manageable and rewarding academic milestone.

What is a thesis?

A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a particular topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic using evidence and logic.

Writing a thesis showcases your ability of critical thinking, gathering evidence, and making a compelling argument. Integral to these competencies is thorough research, which not only fortifies your propositions but also confers credibility to your entire study.

Furthermore, there's another phenomenon you might often confuse with the thesis: the ' working thesis .' However, they aren't similar and shouldn't be used interchangeably.

A working thesis, often referred to as a preliminary or tentative thesis, is an initial version of your thesis statement. It serves as a draft or a starting point that guides your research in its early stages.

As you research more and gather more evidence, your initial thesis (aka working thesis) might change. It's like a starting point that can be adjusted as you learn more. It's normal for your main topic to change a few times before you finalize it.

While a thesis identifies and provides an overarching argument, the key to clearly communicating the central point of that argument lies in writing a strong thesis statement.

What is a thesis statement?

A strong thesis statement (aka thesis sentence) is a concise summary of the main argument or claim of the paper. It serves as a critical anchor in any academic work, succinctly encapsulating the primary argument or main idea of the entire paper.

Typically found within the introductory section, a strong thesis statement acts as a roadmap of your thesis, directing readers through your arguments and findings. By delineating the core focus of your investigation, it offers readers an immediate understanding of the context and the gravity of your study.

Furthermore, an effectively crafted thesis statement can set forth the boundaries of your research, helping readers anticipate the specific areas of inquiry you are addressing.

Different types of thesis statements

A good thesis statement is clear, specific, and arguable. Therefore, it is necessary for you to choose the right type of thesis statement for your academic papers.

Thesis statements can be classified based on their purpose and structure. Here are the primary types of thesis statements:

Argumentative (or Persuasive) thesis statement

Purpose : To convince the reader of a particular stance or point of view by presenting evidence and formulating a compelling argument.

Example : Reducing plastic use in daily life is essential for environmental health.

Analytical thesis statement

Purpose : To break down an idea or issue into its components and evaluate it.

Example : By examining the long-term effects, social implications, and economic impact of climate change, it becomes evident that immediate global action is necessary.

Expository (or Descriptive) thesis statement

Purpose : To explain a topic or subject to the reader.

Example : The Great Depression, spanning the 1930s, was a severe worldwide economic downturn triggered by a stock market crash, bank failures, and reduced consumer spending.

Cause and effect thesis statement

Purpose : To demonstrate a cause and its resulting effect.

Example : Overuse of smartphones can lead to impaired sleep patterns, reduced face-to-face social interactions, and increased levels of anxiety.

Compare and contrast thesis statement

Purpose : To highlight similarities and differences between two subjects.

Example : "While both novels '1984' and 'Brave New World' delve into dystopian futures, they differ in their portrayal of individual freedom, societal control, and the role of technology."

When you write a thesis statement , it's important to ensure clarity and precision, so the reader immediately understands the central focus of your work.

What is the difference between a thesis and a thesis statement?

While both terms are frequently used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings.

A thesis refers to the entire research document, encompassing all its chapters and sections. In contrast, a thesis statement is a brief assertion that encapsulates the central argument of the research.

Here’s an in-depth differentiation table of a thesis and a thesis statement.

Now, to craft a compelling thesis, it's crucial to adhere to a specific structure. Let’s break down these essential components that make up a thesis structure

15 components of a thesis structure

Navigating a thesis can be daunting. However, understanding its structure can make the process more manageable.

Here are the key components or different sections of a thesis structure:

Your thesis begins with the title page. It's not just a formality but the gateway to your research.

Here, you'll prominently display the necessary information about you (the author) and your institutional details.

Title of your thesis
Your full name
Your department
Your institution and degree program
Your submission date
Your Supervisor's name (in some cases)
Your Department or faculty (in some cases)
Your University's logo (in some cases)
Your Student ID (in some cases)

In a concise manner, you'll have to summarize the critical aspects of your research in typically no more than 200-300 words.

This includes the problem statement, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. For many, the abstract will determine if they delve deeper into your work, so ensure it's clear and compelling.

Acknowledgments

Research is rarely a solitary endeavor. In the acknowledgments section, you have the chance to express gratitude to those who've supported your journey.

This might include advisors, peers, institutions, or even personal sources of inspiration and support. It's a personal touch, reflecting the humanity behind the academic rigor.

A roadmap for your readers, the table of contents lists the chapters, sections, and subsections of your thesis.

By providing page numbers, you allow readers to navigate your work easily, jumping to sections that pique their interest.

List of figures and tables

Research often involves data, and presenting this data visually can enhance understanding. This section provides an organized listing of all figures and tables in your thesis.

It's a visual index, ensuring that readers can quickly locate and reference your graphical data.

Introduction

Here's where you introduce your research topic, articulate the research question or objective, and outline the significance of your study.

Present the research topic : Clearly articulate the central theme or subject of your research.
Background information : Ground your research topic, providing any necessary context or background information your readers might need to understand the significance of your study.
Define the scope : Clearly delineate the boundaries of your research, indicating what will and won't be covered.
Literature review : Introduce any relevant existing research on your topic, situating your work within the broader academic conversation and highlighting where your research fits in.
State the research Question(s) or objective(s) : Clearly articulate the primary questions or objectives your research aims to address.
Outline the study's structure : Give a brief overview of how the subsequent sections of your work will unfold, guiding your readers through the journey ahead.

The introduction should captivate your readers, making them eager to delve deeper into your research journey.

Literature review section

Your study correlates with existing research. Therefore, in the literature review section, you'll engage in a dialogue with existing knowledge, highlighting relevant studies, theories, and findings.

It's here that you identify gaps in the current knowledge, positioning your research as a bridge to new insights.

To streamline this process, consider leveraging AI tools. For example, the SciSpace literature review tool enables you to efficiently explore and delve into research papers, simplifying your literature review journey.

Methodology

In the research methodology section, you’ll detail the tools, techniques, and processes you employed to gather and analyze data. This section will inform the readers about how you approached your research questions and ensures the reproducibility of your study.

Here's a breakdown of what it should encompass:

Research Design : Describe the overall structure and approach of your research. Are you conducting a qualitative study with in-depth interviews? Or is it a quantitative study using statistical analysis? Perhaps it's a mixed-methods approach?
Data Collection : Detail the methods you used to gather data. This could include surveys, experiments, observations, interviews, archival research, etc. Mention where you sourced your data, the duration of data collection, and any tools or instruments used.
Sampling : If applicable, explain how you selected participants or data sources for your study. Discuss the size of your sample and the rationale behind choosing it.
Data Analysis : Describe the techniques and tools you used to process and analyze the data. This could range from statistical tests in quantitative research to thematic analysis in qualitative research.
Validity and Reliability : Address the steps you took to ensure the validity and reliability of your findings to ensure that your results are both accurate and consistent.
Ethical Considerations : Highlight any ethical issues related to your research and the measures you took to address them, including — informed consent, confidentiality, and data storage and protection measures.

Moreover, different research questions necessitate different types of methodologies. For instance:

Experimental methodology : Often used in sciences, this involves a controlled experiment to discern causality.
Qualitative methodology : Employed when exploring patterns or phenomena without numerical data. Methods can include interviews, focus groups, or content analysis.
Quantitative methodology : Concerned with measurable data and often involves statistical analysis. Surveys and structured observations are common tools here.
Mixed methods : As the name implies, this combines both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

The Methodology section isn’t just about detailing the methods but also justifying why they were chosen. The appropriateness of the methods in addressing your research question can significantly impact the credibility of your findings.

Results (or Findings)

This section presents the outcomes of your research. It's crucial to note that the nature of your results may vary; they could be quantitative, qualitative, or a mix of both.

Quantitative results often present statistical data, showcasing measurable outcomes, and they benefit from tables, graphs, and figures to depict these data points.

Qualitative results , on the other hand, might delve into patterns, themes, or narratives derived from non-numerical data, such as interviews or observations.

Regardless of the nature of your results, clarity is essential. This section is purely about presenting the data without offering interpretations — that comes later in the discussion.

In the discussion section, the raw data transforms into valuable insights.

Start by revisiting your research question and contrast it with the findings. How do your results expand, constrict, or challenge current academic conversations?

Dive into the intricacies of the data, guiding the reader through its implications. Detail potential limitations transparently, signaling your awareness of the research's boundaries. This is where your academic voice should be resonant and confident.

Practical implications (Recommendation) section

Based on the insights derived from your research, this section provides actionable suggestions or proposed solutions.

Whether aimed at industry professionals or the general public, recommendations translate your academic findings into potential real-world actions. They help readers understand the practical implications of your work and how it can be applied to effect change or improvement in a given field.

When crafting recommendations, it's essential to ensure they're feasible and rooted in the evidence provided by your research. They shouldn't merely be aspirational but should offer a clear path forward, grounded in your findings.

The conclusion provides closure to your research narrative.

It's not merely a recap but a synthesis of your main findings and their broader implications. Reconnect with the research questions or hypotheses posited at the beginning, offering clear answers based on your findings.

Reflect on the broader contributions of your study, considering its impact on the academic community and potential real-world applications.

Lastly, the conclusion should leave your readers with a clear understanding of the value and impact of your study.

References (or Bibliography)

Every theory you've expounded upon, every data point you've cited, and every methodological precedent you've followed finds its acknowledgment here.

In references, it's crucial to ensure meticulous consistency in formatting, mirroring the specific guidelines of the chosen citation style .

Proper referencing helps to avoid plagiarism , gives credit to original ideas, and allows readers to explore topics of interest. Moreover, it situates your work within the continuum of academic knowledge.

To properly cite the sources used in the study, you can rely on online citation generator tools to generate accurate citations!

Here’s more on how you can cite your sources.

Often, the depth of research produces a wealth of material that, while crucial, can make the core content of the thesis cumbersome. The appendix is where you mention extra information that supports your research but isn't central to the main text.

Whether it's raw datasets, detailed procedural methodologies, extended case studies, or any other ancillary material, the appendices ensure that these elements are archived for reference without breaking the main narrative's flow.

For thorough researchers and readers keen on meticulous details, the appendices provide a treasure trove of insights.

Glossary (optional)

In academics, specialized terminologies, and jargon are inevitable. However, not every reader is versed in every term.

The glossary, while optional, is a critical tool for accessibility. It's a bridge ensuring that even readers from outside the discipline can access, understand, and appreciate your work.

By defining complex terms and providing context, you're inviting a wider audience to engage with your research, enhancing its reach and impact.

Remember, while these components provide a structured framework, the essence of your thesis lies in the originality of your ideas, the rigor of your research, and the clarity of your presentation.

As you craft each section, keep your readers in mind, ensuring that your passion and dedication shine through every page.

Thesis examples

To further elucidate the concept of a thesis, here are illustrative examples from various fields:

Example 1 (History): Abolition, Africans, and Abstraction: the Influence of the ‘Noble Savage’ on British and French Antislavery Thought, 1787-1807 by Suchait Kahlon.

Example 2 (Climate Dynamics): Influence of external forcings on abrupt millennial-scale climate changes: a statistical modelling study by Takahito Mitsui · Michel Crucifix

Checklist for your thesis evaluation

Evaluating your thesis ensures that your research meets the standards of academia. Here's an elaborate checklist to guide you through this critical process.

Content and structure

Is the thesis statement clear, concise, and debatable?
Does the introduction provide sufficient background and context?
Is the literature review comprehensive, relevant, and well-organized?
Does the methodology section clearly describe and justify the research methods?
Are the results/findings presented clearly and logically?
Does the discussion interpret the results in light of the research question and existing literature?
Is the conclusion summarizing the research and suggesting future directions or implications?

Clarity and coherence

Is the writing clear and free of jargon?
Are ideas and sections logically connected and flowing?
Is there a clear narrative or argument throughout the thesis?

Research quality

Is the research question significant and relevant?
Are the research methods appropriate for the question?
Is the sample size (if applicable) adequate?
Are the data analysis techniques appropriate and correctly applied?
Are potential biases or limitations addressed?

Originality and significance

Does the thesis contribute new knowledge or insights to the field?
Is the research grounded in existing literature while offering fresh perspectives?

Formatting and presentation

Is the thesis formatted according to institutional guidelines?
Are figures, tables, and charts clear, labeled, and referenced in the text?
Is the bibliography or reference list complete and consistently formatted?
Are appendices relevant and appropriately referenced in the main text?

Grammar and language

Is the thesis free of grammatical and spelling errors?
Is the language professional, consistent, and appropriate for an academic audience?
Are quotations and paraphrased material correctly cited?

Feedback and revision

Have you sought feedback from peers, advisors, or experts in the field?
Have you addressed the feedback and made the necessary revisions?

Overall assessment

Does the thesis as a whole feel cohesive and comprehensive?
Would the thesis be understandable and valuable to someone in your field?

Ensure to use this checklist to leave no ground for doubt or missed information in your thesis.

After writing your thesis, the next step is to discuss and defend your findings verbally in front of a knowledgeable panel. You’ve to be well prepared as your professors may grade your presentation abilities.

Preparing your thesis defense

A thesis defense, also known as "defending the thesis," is the culmination of a scholar's research journey. It's the final frontier, where you’ll present their findings and face scrutiny from a panel of experts.

Typically, the defense involves a public presentation where you’ll have to outline your study, followed by a question-and-answer session with a committee of experts. This committee assesses the validity, originality, and significance of the research.

The defense serves as a rite of passage for scholars. It's an opportunity to showcase expertise, address criticisms, and refine arguments. A successful defense not only validates the research but also establishes your authority as a researcher in your field.

Here’s how you can effectively prepare for your thesis defense .

Now, having touched upon the process of defending a thesis, it's worth noting that scholarly work can take various forms, depending on academic and regional practices.

One such form, often paralleled with the thesis, is the 'dissertation.' But what differentiates the two?

Dissertation vs. Thesis

Often used interchangeably in casual discourse, they refer to distinct research projects undertaken at different levels of higher education.

To the uninitiated, understanding their meaning might be elusive. So, let's demystify these terms and delve into their core differences.

Here's a table differentiating between the two.

Wrapping up

From understanding the foundational concept of a thesis to navigating its various components, differentiating it from a dissertation, and recognizing the importance of proper citation — this guide covers it all.

As scholars and readers, understanding these nuances not only aids in academic pursuits but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the relentless quest for knowledge that drives academia.

It’s important to remember that every thesis is a testament to curiosity, dedication, and the indomitable spirit of discovery.

Good luck with your thesis writing!

Frequently Asked Questions

A thesis typically ranges between 40-80 pages, but its length can vary based on the research topic, institution guidelines, and level of study.

A PhD thesis usually spans 200-300 pages, though this can vary based on the discipline, complexity of the research, and institutional requirements.

To identify a thesis topic, consider current trends in your field, gaps in existing literature, personal interests, and discussions with advisors or mentors. Additionally, reviewing related journals and conference proceedings can provide insights into potential areas of exploration.

The conceptual framework is often situated in the literature review or theoretical framework section of a thesis. It helps set the stage by providing the context, defining key concepts, and explaining the relationships between variables.

A thesis statement should be concise, clear, and specific. It should state the main argument or point of your research. Start by pinpointing the central question or issue your research addresses, then condense that into a single statement, ensuring it reflects the essence of your paper.

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Choosing an Academic Publication Venue: A Short Guide for Beginners

A beginner's guide to choosing a venue to publish. Recommended for PhD students and early career researchers

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adrian wilkinson

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A Pocket Guide To Academic Publishing is a short handbook on the basics of how to publish your research and what to pay attention to. It is written for early career researchers and draws from the author’s experience as a researcher himself as well as his role as Editor of an academic journal. While mostly making use of issues related to social sciences, this book is also of interest to natural scientists as it provides deep insights into how to make your life as an up and coming academic author easier.

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Review of Paltridge & Starfield's (2016) affordable, compact, and timely book entitled, "Getting published in academic journals: Navigating the publication process".

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Publishing a research paper is a pivotal endeavor in an academic career, pivotal for scholarly dissemination and career progression. Whether it is presented at a seminar, conference, or submitted for peer review, comprehending the intricacies of the publication process is of paramount importance. This comprehensive research paper aims to delineate the fundamental steps involved in the publication of research papers. By diligently adhering to these steps, novice researchers can successfully navigate the challenging journey of research dissemination, ultimately making a profound impact on their respective fields of study.

james M magrini

This is a recent college conference - "Writing on the Edge" - presentation that takes graduate doctoral students and new academics, in great detail, through the process of submitting their work for publication that works across disciplines. It includes all types of scholarly publishing along with presenting a succinct step-by-step guide to follow to get your work published immediately.

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The adage "publish or perish" is no longer up to date. The explosion of the number of scientific publications leads to difficulties in finding relevant information and problems in the visibility of publications written by young researchers. New modes of publication of scientific information are on the rise. Researchers today need to select different strategies for their professional careers, or the position of their laboratory and/or institution, or scientific ethics, elements that are sometimes contradictory. This workshop seeks to open the question of new modes of publication on digital media, in term of writing modalities, but also in term of new scientific and business models. What is possible today? Where are the limits? The workshop will help the doctoral candidate to ask the right questions about publications, in order to make conscious choices that correspond to his/her personal goals. At the end of the workshop, participant: - Can perform thoughtful choices for pu...

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Libraries & Cultural Resources

Research guides, academic publishing demystified.

How do I choose a suitable publication venue?
What is a predatory publisher?
What is peer review?
What is an impact factor?
Can I get help with writing?
Mental health & wellness
Resources from retreat

Where to publish?

There are many things to consider when choosing a venue to publish your work: you want to ensure a good fit, a broad reach, and significant impact. It is your responsibility to carefully evaluate the reputation of a journal and its publisher before submitting an article for publication, or agreeing to provide peer review services.

This page features tools and guides to help you evaluate issues relating to scholarly journals such as aims and scope, publishing characteristics, reputability, and appropriateness. Please also consult the predatory publishing page to ensure that you're submitting your work to a legitimate venue.

Choosing a Suitable Publication Venue

Transcript - Choosing a publication venue Download video transcript as a .txt file

Finding a venue: Your questions answered

Before you submit your work to any particular venue, it's important to do your homework. Here is some information to answer some of your questions.

How do I find a venue that is a good match for my paper? There is no one way to do this, but here are some suggestions!

Ask your supervisor and peers for suggestions.
Search for articles with similar key words in a library database - look at which journals show up more frequently. Similarly, look at venues that you have cited in your own work.
Read abstracts from past few years to get a sense of what a potential venue publishes.
When in doubt contact the editorial board with an abstract for your paper and ask for their feedback.
Ensure that your preferred venue is reputable. For more information, check our page on predatory publishers .

How to I ensure my paper meets the venue's guidelines? All venues will have submission guidelines that should be clear and easy to follow. These guidelines will cover issues such as appropriate subject matter for the journal, types of articles that are accepted, length and structure of articles, bibliographic style, and more.

How do I know how long it will take? There are many factors that influence the speed of publication. The biggest of these is the editorial and peer review process that will impact whether or not your submission will be accepted at all. You can read more about that on our page on peer review. However, some basic things to check are: is the venue currently accepting submissions; does the journal publish scheduled issues, or on a rolling basis (a rolling basis may offer a quicker turnaround time); and, does the journal advertise an average time from submission to decision?

What is the difference between and Open Access journal and a subscription journal? Subscription journals can only be read by individuals or institutions who pay to maintain a subscription to their content (or pay to access an individual paper), whereas Open Access journal articles are freely available to anyone with an internet connection.

Some subscription journals allow authors to pay a fee to make an individual article openly accessible, and most permit some form of self-archiving. To learn more about these terms, and your options as an author, check our scholarly communications guide .

Do I have to transfer my copyright? As a graduate student, you own the copyright to the academic work you create. If you author a collaborative piece, you and your co-authors jointly own the copyright. Most subscription journals will request that authors transfer their copyright to the publisher prior to publication. Most open access journals will not make this request. Transferring your copyright to a publisher will impact your ability to use your work in the future. Learn more about this issue on our author rights page.

Will I have to pay money to publish? It is important to investigate whether your preferred venue charges fees for any of its services. Some journals charge fees for colour figures, for immediate Open Access, or other services. The University of Calgary maintains discounts with some publishers for Open Access fees .

I don't want to publish in an academic venue! What are my options? There are so many options! You could consider co-authoring, with a supervisor, a piece in the Conversation , a venue for research-based analysis written for a general audience. The Knowledge Exchange Office at the University of Calgary is also a good place to learn more.

Tools for evaluating fit and impact

BISON Uses your paper's title, abstract, and references to suggest Open Access journals for publication. Potential journals are drawn from the Directory of Open Access Journals.
Elsevier Journal Finder Based on keywords in your manuscript's title and abstract, this tool will suggest journals suitable for publishing your article. Limited to Elsevier journals only.
IEEE publication recommender Enter keywords, key phrases, or article title to help you find suitable journals or conferences to submit to in engineering, computing, and technology. Open Access filters are available.
JANE: Journal/Author Name Estimator Input your draft abstract, and JANE will suggest journals for you to publish in. You can limit by publication type or open access journals. Because this tool uses the MEDLINE database to generate its suggestions, it is not appropriate for content outside of the broad field of medicine. Please also note that PubMed can contain "predatory" journals, so these may appear in JANE's results.
JOT Matches manuscripts in the fields of biomedicine and life sciences with suitable journals, based on a manuscript’s title, abstract, and (optionally) citations. Builds on the JANE tool but adds metrics!
Journal Guide Helps authors evaluate journals in terms of scope, quality, and impact. Useful if you don't know where to submit your paper.
Taylor and Francis Journal Suggester An AI-enabled tool that will provide suggestions of T&F journals based on your abstract. Helpful for humanities topics.
Web of Science Match Manuscript Find potential journals based on an analysis of millions of citation connections in the Web of Science Core Collection. More useful for STEM disciplines.

Unless otherwise noted, content is this guide is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License .

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Exploring the Different Venues for Research Publication

The publication of research findings is a key component of the scientific endeavor and has long been established as an essential part of communicating discoveries, advancements, and ideas. With the advent of digital media and online publishing platforms, researchers now have access to a myriad of different venues for disseminating their work. This article aims to explore these various avenues in order to provide insight into which form may be most suitable for particular types or levels of research activity. In doing so, we will consider issues such as peer review standards and audience size along with potential benefits that each medium can offer in terms of data accessibility or readability among other factors. Ultimately, this analysis should equip academics with sufficient knowledge to choose the appropriate platform when deciding how best to communicate their work effectively.

1. Introduction to Research Publication Venues

2. traditional journals and magazines as publishing outlets, 3. exploring online platforms for submitting work, 4. open access models of scholarship production, 5. interdisciplinary methodologies and networked databases, 6. factors in assessing appropriate publications for academic rigour, 7. conclusion: advantages of broadening the range of publication options.

Exploring the Range of Research Publication Venues

Finding an appropriate publication venue for your research paper can be a daunting task. While there are plenty of options, understanding how to select the best journal or conference is essential if you want to successfully get your work published and seen by peers in the field. The good news is that with some careful consideration, it’s possible to identify where your work will fit most comfortably. The venues available for publishing research papers range from academic journals and periodicals through to specialist conferences. Journals often focus on specific areas of knowledge such as medical science or sociology, so they provide excellent opportunities for authors who have conducted specific investigations into certain topics. For more generalised works which address broader issues within a discipline or field, then publishing in periodicals may be better suited since these outlets reach out across many different specialisations. Meanwhile specialist conferences , while generally requiring registration fees and attendance at events before being accepted as presenters/authors, offer great exposure too – especially when presentations lead onto further publication opportunities like write-ups in textbooks etc., making them worth considering depending on what stage your paper has reached developmentally speaking.

Traditional journals and magazines have been a pillar of the research paper publishing industry for many decades. They provide an avenue to share work with peers, experts in the field, as well as a much broader audience. Journals often publish longer pieces that are peer-reviewed and that require more rigorous consideration before acceptance for publication. Magazines on the other hand usually feature shorter articles about timely topics or emerging trends.

Researchers looking to take advantage of these outlets should be aware that some journals may only accept submissions from within their own institution’s community while others welcome contributions from around the world. Moreover, it is important to note where your research paper will be published; if you choose a journal not indexed by major databases such as ISI Web of Science then its visibility might suffer significantly compared to being hosted in another outlet.

Uncovering New Opportunities

Online platforms have been a boon for students looking to submit their work and make it accessible to the public. This can be especially advantageous when trying to connect with peers in other parts of the world or simply showcase an impressive piece of academic research. With so many new avenues emerging, how can you best take advantage?

As a starting point, consider what type of work you’d like to publish online – whether that be short articles or longer papers. Many peer-reviewed journals and databases offer spaces where researchers can upload scholarly materials such as research papers and dissertation manuscripts. Often times these are free-of-charge services that permit users access from any device regardless of location; making them ideal outlets for showcasing your work on an international platform! Additionally, there is usually some form editorial review process involved which allows authors extra assurance before submitting their documents publicly – ensuring accuracy and quality content standards are maintained throughout the publishing process.

In the digital age, are an increasingly prominent feature of academic and scientific research. A key advantage to this approach is that it makes important research more widely accessible – enabling those outside institutions with access to scholarly journals or materials, as well as those within them, to benefit from advances in knowledge.

Traditional Publishing: Traditional publishing involves a publisher who has exclusive control over the editing process and distribution rights for a given journal article or book.

The cost involved in accessing these publications often act as a barrier for many readers; traditional subscription fees remain high despite the increased availability of online sources.

Open Access Journals: Open Access Journals (OAJs) on the other hand provide free public access – no paywalls – where any interested reader can download papers without needing authorization or registration.

OAJs also employ rigorous peer-review processes, so readers can trust they are viewing reliable material produced by experts. Research published through such channels is typically made available via platforms like Digital Commons Network which brings together hundreds of university presses around the world.

As our knowledge of the world grows, it becomes more and more essential to explore areas beyond a single academic discipline. Interdisciplinary methodologies allow us to examine topics from multiple perspectives, which can result in better insights and new connections. Furthermore, networked databases are now making access to these resources much easier than before.

Interdisciplinary Methodologies . By researching outside of one particular field we may find relevant connections between research that previously seemed disparate. For example, drawing on both psychology and economics may be necessary for understanding how people make decisions regarding their financial wellbeing.
Networked Databases . The internet has revolutionised access to data sources like never before. Online libraries with journals spanning many disciplines are accessible at any time of day or night; what was once locked away in university archives is now available with just a few clicks! Research papers across all fields can also be quickly shared among colleagues – no matter where they’re based – through electronic publication services such as IEEE Xplore Digital Library or Elsevier ScienceDirect.

When it comes to assessing appropriate publications for academic rigour, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. For starters, the importance of peer-reviewed research papers cannot be overstated: these highly reliable sources ensure that only thoroughly examined and approved work is being disseminated. They can generally be found published in reputable journals or books by well-established presses.

For researchers, expanding the range of publication options offers a number of advantages. Perhaps most importantly, it increases the potential audience for research papers by providing additional opportunities for dissemination.

New Audience:

The opportunity to reach new audiences can help spread scientific knowledge and understanding on wider scales than previously possible. It also helps establish broader recognition and encourages further collaboration with other experts in the field. Additionally, disseminating research through multiple sources may increase chances that findings will be appreciated and adopted into professional practice or incorporated into policymaking decisions.

Variety Of Platforms:

In conclusion then, broadening one’s range of publications presents many exciting prospects that could enhance both scholarly communication as well as public engagement with science overall.

The exploration of different venues for research publication has revealed a great deal about the current trends in scholarly publishing. We have seen that there are many opportunities available to researchers and academics interested in getting their work published, but also some unique challenges associated with various forms of publication. As such, it is essential that those considering an outlet for their own research take into account these considerations before deciding which route to pursue. With all this knowledge now at hand, we hope this article provides valuable insight to guide you through your decisions when choosing where best to publish your work.

Student Work
Thesis & Capstone

Thesis and Capstone

Students across our degree programs have the opportunity to conduct impactful research in the final year of study.

In both the graduate and undergraduate Architecture programs, students can elect to complete a Thesis project. Design students are offered a Capstone project. Historic Preservation graduate students complete a Practicum experience. And graduate students in Sustainable Real Estate Development perform Directed Research. See past graduate projects at Tulane Libraries' collection of Master's Theses - Tulane School of Architecture .

Featured Thesis Projects

The five-year Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and the graduate Master of Architecture (MArch) prepare students with advanced skills in the areas of history, theory, representation and technology.

The thesis projects address a clear subject matter, identify actionable methods for working, and generate knowledge relative to their findings that ultimately contribute to architectural discourse.

In the fall semester, students conduct research and process work that leads to designing a project according to crucial principles and parameters embedded within the discipline of architecture.

The outcome of these activities is considered an architectural thesis, presented in the spring semester. In both semesters, each student is guided by a faculty thesis director.

See more projects at our Featured Thesis page.

Gabrielle Rashleigh

Graduate Thesis, 2021

Jorge Blandin Milla and Joanne Engelhard

Undergraduate Thesis, 2021

Luke Escobar

Graduate Thesis, 2022

Valentina Mancera and Natalie Rendleman

Undergraduate Thesis, 2022

Zach Braaten

Evan Warder

Kelsie Donovan

Maddison Wells

Featured Thesis
Virtual Thesis Exhibitions
Tulane Libraries Collection of Graduate Thesis and Dissertations

Dezeen features 10 Tulane architecture student thesis projects

Qualitative Research 101: Interviewing

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Undertaking Interviews

By: David Phair (PhD) and Kerryn Warren (PhD) | March 2022

Undertaking interviews is potentially the most important step in the qualitative research process. If you don’t collect useful, useable data in your interviews, you’ll struggle through the rest of your dissertation or thesis. Having helped numerous students with their research over the years, we’ve noticed some common interviewing mistakes that first-time researchers make. In this post, we’ll discuss five costly interview-related mistakes and outline useful strategies to avoid making these.

Overview: 5 Interviewing Mistakes

Not having a clear interview strategy /plan
Not having good interview techniques /skills
Not securing a suitable location and equipment
Not having a basic risk management plan
Not keeping your “ golden thread ” front of mind

1. Not having a clear interview strategy

The first common mistake that we’ll look at is that of starting the interviewing process without having first come up with a clear interview strategy or plan of action. While it’s natural to be keen to get started engaging with your interviewees, a lack of planning can result in a mess of data and inconsistency between interviews.

There are several design choices to decide on and plan for before you start interviewing anyone. Some of the most important questions you need to ask yourself before conducting interviews include:

What are the guiding research aims and research questions of my study?
Will I use a structured, semi-structured or unstructured interview approach?
How will I record the interviews (audio or video)?
Who will be interviewed and by whom ?
What ethics and data law considerations do I need to adhere to?
How will I analyze my data?

Let’s take a quick look at some of these.

The core objective of the interviewing process is to generate useful data that will help you address your overall research aims. Therefore, your interviews need to be conducted in a way that directly links to your research aims, objectives and research questions (i.e. your “golden thread”). This means that you need to carefully consider the questions you’ll ask to ensure that they align with and feed into your golden thread. If any question doesn’t align with this, you may want to consider scrapping it.

Another important design choice is whether you’ll use an unstructured, semi-structured or structured interview approach . For semi-structured interviews, you will have a list of questions that you plan to ask and these questions will be open-ended in nature. You’ll also allow the discussion to digress from the core question set if something interesting comes up. This means that the type of information generated might differ a fair amount between interviews.

Contrasted to this, a structured approach to interviews is more rigid, where a specific set of closed questions is developed and asked for each interviewee in exactly the same order. Closed questions have a limited set of answers, that are often single-word answers. Therefore, you need to think about what you’re trying to achieve with your research project (i.e. your research aims) and decided on which approach would be best suited in your case.

It is also important to plan ahead with regards to who will be interviewed and how. You need to think about how you will approach the possible interviewees to get their cooperation, who will conduct the interviews, when to conduct the interviews and how to record the interviews. For each of these decisions, it’s also essential to make sure that all ethical considerations and data protection laws are taken into account.

Finally, you should think through how you plan to analyze the data (i.e., your qualitative analysis method) generated by the interviews. Different types of analysis rely on different types of data, so you need to ensure you’re asking the right types of questions and correctly guiding your respondents.

Simply put, you need to have a plan of action regarding the specifics of your interview approach before you start collecting data. If not, you’ll end up drifting in your approach from interview to interview, which will result in inconsistent, unusable data.

Your interview questions need to directly link to your research aims, objectives and research questions - your "golden thread”.

2. Not having good interview technique

While you’re generally not expected to become you to be an expert interviewer for a dissertation or thesis, it is important to practice good interview technique and develop basic interviewing skills .

Let’s go through some basics that will help the process along.

Firstly, before the interview , make sure you know your interview questions well and have a clear idea of what you want from the interview. Naturally, the specificity of your questions will depend on whether you’re taking a structured, semi-structured or unstructured approach, but you still need a consistent starting point . Ideally, you should develop an interview guide beforehand (more on this later) that details your core question and links these to the research aims, objectives and research questions.

Before you undertake any interviews, it’s a good idea to do a few mock interviews with friends or family members. This will help you get comfortable with the interviewer role, prepare for potentially unexpected answers and give you a good idea of how long the interview will take to conduct. In the interviewing process, you’re likely to encounter two kinds of challenging interviewees ; the two-word respondent and the respondent who meanders and babbles. Therefore, you should prepare yourself for both and come up with a plan to respond to each in a way that will allow the interview to continue productively.

To begin the formal interview , provide the person you are interviewing with an overview of your research. This will help to calm their nerves (and yours) and contextualize the interaction. Ultimately, you want the interviewee to feel comfortable and be willing to be open and honest with you, so it’s useful to start in a more casual, relaxed fashion and allow them to ask any questions they may have. From there, you can ease them into the rest of the questions.

As the interview progresses , avoid asking leading questions (i.e., questions that assume something about the interviewee or their response). Make sure that you speak clearly and slowly , using plain language and being ready to paraphrase questions if the person you are interviewing misunderstands. Be particularly careful with interviewing English second language speakers to ensure that you’re both on the same page.

Engage with the interviewee by listening to them carefully and acknowledging that you are listening to them by smiling or nodding. Show them that you’re interested in what they’re saying and thank them for their openness as appropriate. This will also encourage your interviewee to respond openly.

Need a helping hand?

3. Not securing a suitable location and quality equipment

Where you conduct your interviews and the equipment you use to record them both play an important role in how the process unfolds. Therefore, you need to think carefully about each of these variables before you start interviewing.

Poor location: A bad location can result in the quality of your interviews being compromised, interrupted, or cancelled. If you are conducting physical interviews, you’ll need a location that is quiet, safe, and welcoming . It’s very important that your location of choice is not prone to interruptions (the workplace office is generally problematic, for example) and has suitable facilities (such as water, a bathroom, and snacks).

If you are conducting online interviews , you need to consider a few other factors. Importantly, you need to make sure that both you and your respondent have access to a good, stable internet connection and electricity. Always check before the time that both of you know how to use the relevant software and it’s accessible (sometimes meeting platforms are blocked by workplace policies or firewalls). It’s also good to have alternatives in place (such as WhatsApp, Zoom, or Teams) to cater for these types of issues.

Poor equipment: Using poor-quality recording equipment or using equipment incorrectly means that you will have trouble transcribing, coding, and analyzing your interviews. This can be a major issue , as some of your interview data may go completely to waste if not recorded well. So, make sure that you use good-quality recording equipment and that you know how to use it correctly.

To avoid issues, you should always conduct test recordings before every interview to ensure that you can use the relevant equipment properly. It’s also a good idea to spot check each recording afterwards, just to make sure it was recorded as planned. If your equipment uses batteries, be sure to always carry a spare set.

Where you conduct your interviews and the equipment you use to record them play an important role in how the process unfolds.

4. Not having a basic risk management plan

Many possible issues can arise during the interview process. Not planning for these issues can mean that you are left with compromised data that might not be useful to you. Therefore, it’s important to map out some sort of risk management plan ahead of time, considering the potential risks, how you’ll minimize their probability and how you’ll manage them if they materialize.

Common potential issues related to the actual interview include cancellations (people pulling out), delays (such as getting stuck in traffic), language and accent differences (especially in the case of poor internet connections), issues with internet connections and power supply. Other issues can also occur in the interview itself. For example, the interviewee could drift off-topic, or you might encounter an interviewee who does not say much at all.

You can prepare for these potential issues by considering possible worst-case scenarios and preparing a response for each scenario. For instance, it is important to plan a backup date just in case your interviewee cannot make it to the first meeting you scheduled with them. It’s also a good idea to factor in a 30-minute gap between your interviews for the instances where someone might be late, or an interview runs overtime for other reasons. Make sure that you also plan backup questions that could be used to bring a respondent back on topic if they start rambling, or questions to encourage those who are saying too little.

In general, it’s best practice to plan to conduct more interviews than you think you need (this is called oversampling ). Doing so will allow you some room for error if there are interviews that don’t go as planned, or if some interviewees withdraw. If you need 10 interviews, it is a good idea to plan for 15. Likely, a few will cancel , delay, or not produce useful data.

You should consider all the potential risks, how you’ll reduce their probability and how you'll respond if they do indeed materialize.

5. Not keeping your golden thread front of mind

We touched on this a little earlier, but it is a key point that should be central to your entire research process. You don’t want to end up with pages and pages of data after conducting your interviews and realize that it is not useful to your research aims . Your research aims, objectives and research questions – i.e., your golden thread – should influence every design decision and should guide the interview process at all times.

A useful way to avoid this mistake is by developing an interview guide before you begin interviewing your respondents. An interview guide is a document that contains all of your questions with notes on how each of the interview questions is linked to the research question(s) of your study. You can also include your research aims and objectives here for a more comprehensive linkage.

You can easily create an interview guide by drawing up a table with one column containing your core interview questions . Then add another column with your research questions , another with expectations that you may have in light of the relevant literature and another with backup or follow-up questions . As mentioned, you can also bring in your research aims and objectives to help you connect them all together. If you’d like, you can download a copy of our free interview guide here .

Recap: Qualitative Interview Mistakes

In this post, we’ve discussed 5 common costly mistakes that are easy to make in the process of planning and conducting qualitative interviews.

To recap, these include:

If you have any questions about these interviewing mistakes, drop a comment below. Alternatively, if you’re interested in getting 1-on-1 help with your thesis or dissertation , check out our dissertation coaching service or book a free initial consultation with one of our friendly Grad Coaches.

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

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Home » Thesis Format – Templates and Samples

Thesis Format – Templates and Samples

Table of contents.

Thesis Format

Thesis format refers to the structure and layout of a research thesis or dissertation. It typically includes several chapters, each of which focuses on a particular aspect of the research topic .

The exact format of a thesis can vary depending on the academic discipline and the institution, but some common elements include:

Introduction

Literature review, methodology.

The title page is the first page of a thesis that provides essential information about the document, such as the title, author’s name, degree program, university, and the date of submission. It is considered as an important component of a thesis as it gives the reader an initial impression of the document’s content and quality.

The typical contents of a title page in a thesis include:

The title of the thesis: It should be concise, informative, and accurately represent the main topic of the research.
Author’s name: This should be written in full and should be the same as it appears on official university records.
Degree program and department: This should specify the type of degree (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral) and the field of study (e.g., Computer Science, Psychology, etc.).
University: The name of the university where the thesis is being submitted.
Date of submission : The month and year of submission of the thesis.
Other details that can be included on the title page include the name of the advisor, the name of the committee members, and any acknowledgments.

In terms of formatting, the title page should be centered horizontally and vertically on the page, with a consistent font size and style. The page margin for the title page should be at least 1 inch (2.54 cm) on all sides. Additionally, it is common practice to include the university logo or crest on the title page, and this should be placed appropriately.

Title of the Thesis in Title Case by Author’s Full Name in Title Case

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Department Name at the University Name

Month Year of Submission

An abstract is a brief summary of a thesis or research paper that provides an overview of the main points, methodology, and findings of the study. It is typically placed at the beginning of the document, after the title page and before the introduction.

The purpose of an abstract is to provide readers with a quick and concise overview of the research paper or thesis. It should be written in a clear and concise language, and should not contain any jargon or technical terms that are not easily understood by the general public.

Here’s an example of an abstract for a thesis:

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health among Adolescents

This study examines the impact of social media on mental health among adolescents. The research utilized a survey methodology and collected data from a sample of 500 adolescents aged between 13 and 18 years. The findings reveal that social media has a significant impact on mental health among adolescents, with frequent use of social media associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The study concludes that there is a need for increased awareness and education on the risks associated with excessive use of social media, and recommends strategies for promoting healthy social media habits among adolescents.

In this example, the abstract provides a concise summary of the thesis by highlighting the main points, methodology, and findings of the study. It also provides a clear indication of the significance of the study and its implications for future research and practice.

A table of contents is an essential part of a thesis as it provides the reader with an overview of the entire document’s structure and organization.

Here’s an example of how a table of contents might look in a thesis:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………..1

A. Background of the Study………………………………………..1

B. Statement of the Problem……………………………………….2

C. Objectives of the Study………………………………………..3

D. Research Questions…………………………………………….4

E. Significance of the Study………………………………………5

F. Scope and Limitations………………………………………….6

G. Definition of Terms……………………………………………7

II. LITERATURE REVIEW. ………………………………………………8

A. Overview of the Literature……………………………………..8

B. Key Themes and Concepts………………………………………..9

C. Gaps in the Literature………………………………………..10

D. Theoretical Framework………………………………………….11

III. METHODOLOGY ……………………………………………………12

A. Research Design………………………………………………12

B. Participants and Sampling……………………………………..13

C. Data Collection Procedures…………………………………….14

D. Data Analysis Procedures………………………………………15

IV. RESULTS …………………………………………………………16

A. Descriptive Statistics…………………………………………16

B. Inferential Statistics…………………………………………17

V. DISCUSSION ………………………………………………………18

A. Interpretation of Results………………………………………18

B. Discussion of Finding s …………………………………………19

C. Implications of the Study………………………………………20

VI. CONCLUSION ………………………………………………………21

A. Summary of the Study…………………………………………..21

B. Limitations of the Study……………………………………….22

C. Recommendations for Future Research……………………………..23

REFERENCES …………………………………………………………….24

APPENDICES …………………………………………………………….26

As you can see, the table of contents is organized by chapters and sections. Each chapter and section is listed with its corresponding page number, making it easy for the reader to navigate the thesis.

The introduction is a critical part of a thesis as it provides an overview of the research problem, sets the context for the study, and outlines the research objectives and questions. The introduction is typically the first chapter of a thesis and serves as a roadmap for the reader.

Here’s an example of how an introduction in a thesis might look:

Introduction:

The prevalence of obesity has increased rapidly in recent decades, with more than one-third of adults in the United States being classified as obese. Obesity is associated with numerous adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Despite significant efforts to address this issue, the rates of obesity continue to rise. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and obesity in young adults.

The study will be conducted using a mixed-methods approach, with both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The research objectives are to:

Examine the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and obesity in young adults.
Identify the key lifestyle factors that contribute to obesity in young adults.
Evaluate the effectiveness of current interventions aimed at preventing and reducing obesity in young adults.

The research questions that will guide this study are:

What is the relationship between lifestyle behaviors and obesity in young adults?
Which lifestyle factors are most strongly associated with obesity in young adults?
How effective are current interventions aimed at preventing and reducing obesity in young adults?

By addressing these research questions, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of the factors that contribute to obesity in young adults and to inform the development of effective interventions to prevent and reduce obesity in this population.

A literature review is a critical analysis and evaluation of existing literature on a specific topic or research question. It is an essential part of any thesis, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the existing research on the topic and helps to establish the theoretical framework for the study. The literature review allows the researcher to identify gaps in the current research, highlight areas that need further exploration, and demonstrate the importance of their research question.

April 9, 2023:

A search on Google Scholar for “Effectiveness of Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic” yielded 1,540 results. Upon reviewing the first few pages of results, it is evident that there is a significant amount of literature on the topic. A majority of the studies focus on the experiences and perspectives of students and educators during the transition to online learning due to the pandemic.

One recent study published in the Journal of Educational Technology & Society (Liu et al., 2023) found that students who were already familiar with online learning tools and platforms had an easier time adapting to online learning than those who were not. However, the study also found that students who were not familiar with online learning tools were able to adapt with proper support from their teachers and institutions.

Another study published in Computers & Education (Tang et al., 2023) compared the academic performance of students in online and traditional classroom settings during the pandemic. The study found that while there were no significant differences in the grades of students in the two settings, students in online classes reported higher levels of stress and lower levels of satisfaction with their learning experience.

Methodology in a thesis refers to the overall approach and systematic process that a researcher follows to collect and analyze data in order to answer their research question(s) or achieve their research objectives. It includes the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, data analysis procedures, and any other relevant procedures that the researcher uses to conduct their research.

For example, let’s consider a thesis on the impact of social media on mental health among teenagers. The methodology for this thesis might involve the following steps:

Research Design:

The researcher may choose to conduct a quantitative study using a survey questionnaire to collect data on social media usage and mental health among teenagers. Alternatively, they may conduct a qualitative study using focus group discussions or interviews to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of teenagers regarding social media and mental health.

Sampling Techniques:

The researcher may use random sampling to select a representative sample of teenagers from a specific geographic location or demographic group, or they may use purposive sampling to select participants who meet specific criteria such as age, gender, or mental health status.

Data Collection Methods:

The researcher may use an online survey tool to collect data on social media usage and mental health, or they may conduct face-to-face interviews or focus group discussions to gather qualitative data. They may also use existing data sources such as medical records or social media posts.

Data Analysis Procedures:

The researcher may use statistical analysis techniques such as regression analysis to examine the relationship between social media usage and mental health, or they may use thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns in the qualitative data.

Ethical Considerations: The researcher must ensure that their research is conducted in an ethical manner, which may involve obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their confidentiality, and ensuring that their rights and welfare are respected.

In a thesis, the “Results” section typically presents the findings of the research conducted by the author. This section typically includes both quantitative and qualitative data, such as statistical analyses, tables, figures, and other relevant data.

Here are some examples of how the “Results” section of a thesis might look:

Example 1: A quantitative study on the effects of exercise on cardiovascular health

In this study, the author conducts a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of exercise on cardiovascular health in a group of sedentary adults. The “Results” section might include tables showing the changes in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other relevant indicators in the exercise and control groups over the course of the study. The section might also include statistical analyses, such as t-tests or ANOVA, to demonstrate the significance of the results.

Example 2: A qualitative study on the experiences of immigrant families in a new country

In this study, the author conducts in-depth interviews with immigrant families to explore their experiences of adapting to a new country. The “Results” section might include quotes from the interviews that illustrate the participants’ experiences, as well as a thematic analysis that identifies common themes and patterns in the data. The section might also include a discussion of the implications of the findings for policy and practice.

A thesis discussion section is an opportunity for the author to present their interpretation and analysis of the research results. In this section, the author can provide their opinion on the findings, compare them with other literature, and suggest future research directions.

For example, let’s say the thesis topic is about the impact of social media on mental health. The author has conducted a survey among 500 individuals and has found that there is a significant correlation between excessive social media use and poor mental health.

In the discussion section, the author can start by summarizing the main findings and stating their interpretation of the results. For instance, the author may argue that excessive social media use is likely to cause mental health problems due to the pressure of constantly comparing oneself to others, fear of missing out, and cyberbullying.

Next, the author can compare their results with other studies and point out similarities and differences. They can also identify any limitations in their research design and suggest future directions for research.

For example, the author may point out that their study only measured social media use and mental health at one point in time, and it is unclear whether one caused the other or whether there are other confounding factors. Therefore, they may suggest longitudinal studies that follow individuals over time to better understand the causal relationship.

Writing a conclusion for a thesis is an essential part of the overall writing process. The conclusion should summarize the main points of the thesis and provide a sense of closure to the reader. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the research process and offer suggestions for further study.

Here is an example of a conclusion for a thesis:

After an extensive analysis of the data collected, it is evident that the implementation of a new curriculum has had a significant impact on student achievement. The findings suggest that the new curriculum has improved student performance in all subject areas, and this improvement is particularly notable in math and science. The results of this study provide empirical evidence to support the notion that curriculum reform can positively impact student learning outcomes.

In addition to the positive results, this study has also identified areas for future research. One limitation of the current study is that it only examines the short-term effects of the new curriculum. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of the new curriculum on student performance, as well as investigate the impact of the curriculum on students with different learning styles and abilities.

Overall, the findings of this study have important implications for educators and policymakers who are interested in improving student outcomes. The results of this study suggest that the implementation of a new curriculum can have a positive impact on student achievement, and it is recommended that schools and districts consider curriculum reform as a means of improving student learning outcomes.

References in a thesis typically follow a specific format depending on the citation style required by your academic institution or publisher.

Below are some examples of different citation styles and how to reference different types of sources in your thesis:

In-text citation format: (Author, Year)

Reference list format for a book: Author, A. A. (Year of publication). Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle. Publisher.

Example: In-text citation: (Smith, 2010) Reference list entry: Smith, J. D. (2010). The art of writing a thesis. Cambridge University Press.

Reference list format for a journal article: Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year of publication). Title of article. Title of Journal, volume number(issue number), page range.

Example: In-text citation: (Brown, 2015) Reference list entry: Brown, E., Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2015). The impact of social media on academic performance. Journal of Educational Psychology, 108(3), 393-407.

In-text citation format: (Author page number)

Works Cited list format for a book: Author. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of publication.

Example: In-text citation: (Smith 75) Works Cited entry: Smith, John D. The Art of Writing a Thesis. Cambridge University Press, 2010.

Works Cited list format for a journal article: Author(s). “Title of Article.” Title of Journal, volume number, issue number, date, pages.

Example: In-text citation: (Brown 394) Works Cited entry: Brown, Elizabeth, et al. “The Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance.” Journal of Educational Psychology, vol. 108, no. 3, 2015, pp. 393-407.

Chicago Style

In-text citation format: (Author year, page number)

Bibliography list format for a book: Author. Title of Book. Place of publication: Publisher, Year of publication.

Example: In-text citation: (Smith 2010, 75) Bibliography entry: Smith, John D. The Art of Writing a Thesis. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2010.

Bibliography list format for a journal article: Author. “Title of Article.” Title of Journal volume number, no. issue number (date): page numbers.

Example: In-text citation: (Brown 2015, 394) Bibliography entry: Brown, Elizabeth, John Smith, and Laura Johnson. “The Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance.” Journal of Educational Psychology 108, no. 3 (2015): 393-407.

Reference list format for a book: [1] A. A. Author, Title of Book. City of Publisher, Abbrev. of State: Publisher, year.

Example: In-text citation: [1] Reference list entry: A. J. Smith, The Art of Writing a Thesis. New York, NY: Academic Press, 2010.

Reference list format for a journal article: [1] A. A. Author, “Title of Article,” Title of Journal, vol. x, no. x, pp. xxx-xxx, Month year.

Example: In-text citation: [1] Reference list entry: E. Brown, J. D. Smith, and L. Johnson, “The Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance,” Journal of Educational Psychology, vol. 108, no. 3, pp. 393-407, Mar. 2015.

An appendix in a thesis is a section that contains additional information that is not included in the main body of the document but is still relevant to the topic being discussed. It can include figures, tables, graphs, data sets, sample questionnaires, or any other supplementary material that supports your thesis.

Here is an example of how you can format appendices in your thesis:

Title page: The appendix should have a separate title page that lists the title, author’s name, the date, and the document type (i.e., thesis or dissertation). The title page should be numbered as the first page of the appendix section.
Table of contents: If you have more than one appendix, you should include a separate table of contents that lists each appendix and its page number. The table of contents should come after the title page.
Appendix sections: Each appendix should have its own section with a clear and concise title that describes the contents of the appendix. Each section should be numbered with Arabic numerals (e.g., Appendix 1, Appendix 2, etc.). The sections should be listed in the table of contents.
Formatting: The formatting of the appendices should be consistent with the rest of the thesis. This includes font size, font style, line spacing, and margins.
Example: Here is an example of what an appendix might look like in a thesis on the topic of climate change:

Appendix 1: Data Sources

This appendix includes a list of the primary data sources used in this thesis, including their URLs and a brief description of the data they provide.

Appendix 2: Survey Questionnaire

This appendix includes the survey questionnaire used to collect data from participants in the study.

Appendix 3: Additional Figures

This appendix includes additional figures that were not included in the main body of the thesis due to space limitations. These figures provide additional support for the findings presented in the thesis.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Master's Thesis Research

Prereq: All course work toward the degree must be completed. Note: Registration for this course is not available via telephone (UK-VIP) or webUK. For enrollment information contact the Graduate School at 257-4905.

Half-time to full-time work on thesis. May be repeated to a maximum of six semesters.

Michael Skuhersky Thesis Defense: An Integrated Approach for Caenorhabditis elegans Nervous System Simulation

Speaker : Michael Skuhersky

Advisor : Edward Boyden

Defense date/time : April 24th at 2pm

In-person location : Singleton Auditorium, 46-3002

Title : An Integrated Approach for Caenorhabditis elegans Nervous System Simulation

Abstract : The Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) connectome, with its relatively simple structure of approximately 300 neurons and several thousand synaptic connections, presents as the most immediately tractable target for whole-nervous system functional simulation. Despite this potential, research has predominantly focused on isolated neural circuits due to technical limitations such as the field of view of existing microscopes, activity indicator considerations, and the complexity of mapping interneuron connections. Existing whole-brain models of C. elegans often rely on assumptions due to inadequate biophysical data per neuron, limiting their accuracy and utility. We describe the development of a specialized lightsheet microscope capable of capturing isotropic high-resolution, functional activity across the entire worm during various behaviors, automated imaging by use of hybrid microfluidics, alongside novel neuron identification methods to precisely map neural identity, so as to generate a comprehensive dataset ideal for model training. Our goal is to create an accurate and interpretable whole-worm functional model of C. elegans, derived from real-world data under diverse behavioral conditions. The accuracy of the model will be validated by its ability to predict future neural activity based on initial states derived from actual worms, thereby offering a more accurate representation of the organism's neural dynamics. This effort not only advances our understanding of the C. elegans functional connectome but also sets a precedent for whole-brain modeling techniques applicable to broader neuroscientific studies.

Upcoming Events

Sara kornfeld simpson thesis defense: physiology and plasticity of primary visual cortex in wild-type and fragile x syndrome model mice, neurolunch: ruidong chen (jazayeri lab) and iakovos lazaridis (graybiel lab), coglunch: gabor brody "how context shapes what symbols mean".

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Ashley Santiago Thesis Defense

Raptor Biology student Ashley Santiago standing with a backpack in the MNSRBOP National Conservation Area

Boise State University MS Raptor Biology student Ashley Santiago defended her thesis, “Associations Between Landscape Changes And Declines In Golden Eagle Territory Occupancy In The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds Of Prey National Conservation Area ” on the morning of April 19, 2024. Santiago’s main advisor is Julie Heath (MS, Raptor Biology, ’96; Boise State University Raptor Research Center , Biological Sciences ) , and her committee includes Jen Cruz ( Boise State University Raptor Research Center , Biological Sciences) and Donna Delparte (Boise State University Biological Sciences).

Rapid loss of native shrubs and expansion of invasive annuals like cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) have extensively altered shrub-steppe systems. Vegetation changes can have bottom-up effects on trophic interactions and ecosystem dynamics. Predators, like Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) that forage on shrub-reliant prey, may increase their territory size to cope with degraded habitat or abandon historically occupied territories sites. We used a multi-season occupancy model that accounted for imperfect detection to investigate the associations between landscape cover (i.e., shrub and annual herbaceous), fire history, neighbor density, and eagle territory occupancy of 36 Golden Eagle nesting territories in the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA), Idaho, USA from 1986–2022.

The probability of Golden Eagle occupancy decreased 23% from 0.82 in 1986 to 0.59 in 2022. Further, once territories became vacant, they tended to remain vacant, suggesting that the territories were no longer suitable for eagles or no new eagles were recruiting into the population. Territory occupancy was negatively associated with annual herbaceous cover (β: -0.86, 95% CI: -1.53 to -0.24) and tended to be positively associated with shrub cover (β: 0.63, 95% CI: -0.11 to 1.39) and time since last burn (β: 0.25, 95% CI: -0.28 to 0.83). Territories that were farther from other occupied territories had a higher probability of occupancy than territories with closer neighbors (β: -3.56, 95% CI: -4.22 to -2.92), likely because as habitat degraded, eagles compensated by expanding their territories into nearby vacant territories. The probability of detection was high at 0.90 but improved in surveys conducted earlier in the day and later in the breeding season.

Together, these results show that landscape change and habitat degradation have bottom-up effects on Golden Eagle behavior and territory occupancy, resulting in an overall decrease in the local carrying capacity for eagles. Understanding associations between environmental change and territory occupancy has important implications for predicting population persistence and eagle adaptability to changing landscapes.

Office of Neuroscience Research

Thesis Defense: Peiwang Liu (Electrical and Systems Engineering Program) – “Evaluating Neuroimaging Modalities in the A/T/N Framework: Single and Combined FDG-PET and T1-Weighted MRI for Alzheimer’s Diagnosis”

“Evaluating Neuroimaging Modalities in the A/T/N Framework: Single and Combined FDG-PET and T1-Weighted MRI for Alzheimer’s Diagnosis”

Thesis lab: Aristeidis Sotiras (WashU Radiology)

Abstract: With the escalating prevalence of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), the need for early and precise diagnostic techniques is rising. This study delves into the comparative efficacy of Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) and T1-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in diagnosing AD, where the integration of multimodal models is becoming a trend. Leveraging data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), we employed linear Support Vector Machines (SVM) to assess the diagnostic potential of these modalities, both individually and in combination, within the AD continuum. Our analysis, under the A/T/N framework’s ‘N’ category, reveals that FDG-PET consistently outperforms T1w-MRI across various stages of cognitive impairment. Contrary to expectations and previous studies that suggested enhanced diagnostic accuracy through the fusion of neuroimaging modalities—including CSF markers—our findings do not demonstrate a significant improvement in diagnostic performance from combining FDG-PET and MRI data. This outcome aligns with Narazani et al. (2022), challenging the prevailing assumption about the added value of multimodal data fusion in AD diagnosis. Through the interpretation of activation maps, our study further elucidates the distinct yet complementary roles of FDG-PET and MRI in highlighting the pathological underpinnings of AD, contributing to a nuanced understanding of neuroimaging biomarkers in clinical settings. Our research underscores the critical need for refined strategies in neuroimaging data integration, advocating for a more discerning application of single and multimodal approaches in the early detection of AD.

For inquiries contact Aaron Beagle at [email protected] .

COMMENTS

Choosing a venue for your research paper
Choosing the right venue for publishing a research report can be daunting the first time. After the lab research is done, comes...more research. 1. Journal audience/focus. "Usually, my first consideration is the audience I want to reach, though sometimes other factors, such as time from submission to publication may come into play," says ...
Q: What is meant by the setting of the study?
Research setting is an important component of research design/methodology. If you have been asked to describe the setting of your study, note any aspects related to the environment in which your study is being conducted. You may want to refer to the author guidelines of your target journal to confirm which specific details the journal requires.
Choosing the right venue for sharing your research
Share with your colleagues. Researchers should be careful and be aware of the process involved in selecting the right venues. Charlesworth Author Services, a trusted brand supporting the world's leading academic publishers, institutions and authors since 1928. We only work with native English-speaking editors with advanced or postdoctoral ...
Choosing the Right Publication Venue: Navigating the Journal Landscape
Choosing the right venue for publishing your research is a critical decision that requires careful deliberation. The ideal venue can bring attention to your work, ensure it reaches the appropriate audience, and significantly impact your academic career. However, with the proliferation of academic journals, making this decision can be daunting.
Thesis
Thesis. Definition: Thesis is a scholarly document that presents a student's original research and findings on a particular topic or question. It is usually written as a requirement for a graduate degree program and is intended to demonstrate the student's mastery of the subject matter and their ability to conduct independent research.
How to find a good venue to submit your research paper
Do the same for the cited papers (take notes) If the paper on your desk is relevant for your research, it is likely to be published in a good venue. For instance, if your advisor sent this paper to you, it's because your advisor knew that paper is a good one. If you found this paper by your own, your search criteria might have excluded many ...
Choosing a publication venue
Abstract. The choice of a venue for publication of a manuscript is rarely a clear-cut decision. Several factors should be considered in this decision, such as the audience for whom you are writing, the topic of the manuscript, the purposes for which you are writing, and the journal guidelines. These factors may vary in importance to the author.
What Is a Thesis?
A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master's program or a capstone to a bachelor's degree. Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation, it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete.
What is a thesis
A thesis is an in-depth research study that identifies a particular topic of inquiry and presents a clear argument or perspective about that topic using evidence and logic. Writing a thesis showcases your ability of critical thinking, gathering evidence, and making a compelling argument. Integral to these competencies is thorough research ...
(PDF) Choosing an Academic Publication Venue: A Short Guide for
5. Writing a Monograph 4 Choosing an Academic Publication Venue - L. Ciolfi (2017) Writing an entire book can be daunting, but it is also one of the ways to publish your thesis in a more accessible format, or to publish a substantial body of work as one output. In order to publish a monograph you need to obtain a book contract with a publisher.
How do I choose a suitable publication venue?
There are many things to consider when choosing a venue to publish your work: you want to ensure a good fit, a broad reach, and significant impact. ... You could consider co-authoring, with a supervisor, a piece in the Conversation, a venue for research-based analysis written for a general audience. The Knowledge Exchange Office at the ...
Writing Strong Research Questions
A good research question is essential to guide your research paper, dissertation, or thesis. All research questions should be: Focused on a single problem or issue. Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources. Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints. Specific enough to answer thoroughly.
How to Write a Thesis Statement
Step 2: Write your initial answer. After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process. The internet has had more of a positive than a negative effect on education.
Choosing a Publication Venue
Original article. The choice of a venue for publication of a manuscript is rarely a clear-cut decision. Several factors should be considered in this decision, such as the audience for whom you are writing, the topic of the manuscript, the purposes for which you are writing, and the journal guidelines. These factors may vary in importance to the ...
How to Write a Thesis: A Guide for Master's Students
Typically, these students must write a thesis statement that consists of at least one compelling sentence and at least 50 pages of content, then turn it in within 16 weeks. I have taught graduate students, primarily from the U.S. Intelligence Community, how to conduct research for over eight years.
Exploring the Different Venues for Research Publication
Exploring the Range of Research Publication Venues. Finding an appropriate publication venue for your research paper can be a daunting task. While there are plenty of options, understanding how to select the best journal or conference is essential if you want to successfully get your work published and seen by peers in the field. The good news ...
PDF CHAPTER 2: SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS
The elementary school chosen for research is located in a. medium-sized city with a population of around 50,000 (Jiménez et al., 2003), whose. history reaches back over 2,000 years. This town is situated near a larger city, the state. capital and a major industrial and educational center with approximately 2 million.
PDF Chapter 3. Research Setting
Chapter 3. Research Setting 3.1. Introduction Chapter 1 and 2 importantly brought to bear the initial grand purpose of the thesis in understanding how e-government can lead to human development, the means of inquiry being ethnography and analysis using Grounded Theory. It was illustrated at a very high
Research
The thesis projects address a clear subject matter, identify actionable methods for working, and generate knowledge relative to their findings that ultimately contribute to architectural discourse. In the fall semester, students conduct research and process work that leads to designing a project according to crucial principles and parameters ...
How to Write Recommendations in Research
Recommendations for future research should be: Concrete and specific. Supported with a clear rationale. Directly connected to your research. Overall, strive to highlight ways other researchers can reproduce or replicate your results to draw further conclusions, and suggest different directions that future research can take, if applicable.
How To Do Qualitative Interviews For Research
If you need 10 interviews, it is a good idea to plan for 15. Likely, a few will cancel, delay, or not produce useful data. 5. Not keeping your golden thread front of mind. We touched on this a little earlier, but it is a key point that should be central to your entire research process.
Thesis Format
Thesis Format. Thesis format refers to the structure and layout of a research thesis or dissertation. It typically includes several chapters, each of which focuses on a particular aspect of the research topic. The exact format of a thesis can vary depending on the academic discipline and the institution, but some common elements include:
Master's Thesis Research
Mon, 01/08/2024 - 00:00. End Date: Fri, 05/03/2024 - 00:00. Name: Master's Thesis Research. Requisites: Prereq: All course work toward the degree must be completed. Note: Registration for this course is not available via telephone (UK-VIP) or webUK. For enrollment information contact the Graduate School at 257-4905.
Michael Skuhersky Thesis Defense: An Integrated Approach for
Despite this potential, research has predominantly focused on isolated neural circuits due to technical limitations such as the field of view of existing microscopes, activity indicator considerations, and the complexity of mapping interneuron connections. ... Michael Skuhersky Thesis Defense: An Integrated Approach for Caenorhabditis elegans ...
Ashley Santiago Thesis Defense
Boise State University MS Raptor Biology student Ashley Santiago defended her thesis, "Associations Between Landscape Changes And Declines In Golden Eagle Territory Occupancy In The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds Of Prey National Conservation Area" on the morning of April 19, 2024. Santiago's main advisor is Julie Heath (MS, Raptor Biology, '96; Boise State University Raptor Research ...
Types of Research Designs Compared
Types of Research Designs Compared | Guide & Examples. Published on June 20, 2019 by Shona McCombes.Revised on June 22, 2023. When you start planning a research project, developing research questions and creating a research design, you will have to make various decisions about the type of research you want to do.. There are many ways to categorize different types of research.
Thesis Defense: Peiwang Liu (Electrical and Systems Engineering Program
Thesis lab: Aristeidis Sotiras (WashU Radiology) Abstract: With the escalating prevalence of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's Disease (AD), the need for early and precise diagnostic techniques is rising.This study delves into the comparative efficacy of Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET) and T1-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in diagnosing AD, where the ...
Applied Sciences
This article explores the effects of outdoor PM2.5 concentration, venue airtightness and the distribution of indoor PM2.5 concentration on the curling venue of the National Aquatics Center. Research has found that when the filtration efficiency of the fresh air system is 60%, the outdoor PM2.5 concentration increases by 20 μg/m3, an average increase of 6 μg/m3 in indoor PM2.5 concentration ...

Q: What is meant by the setting of the study?

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How to choose an appropriate journal for publishing your paper: A step-by-step guide

How do you select the best journal for your research?

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What is a thesis | A Complete Guide with Examples

Table of Contents

What is a thesis?

What is a thesis statement?

Different types of thesis statements

Argumentative (or Persuasive) thesis statement

Analytical thesis statement

Expository (or Descriptive) thesis statement

Cause and effect thesis statement

Compare and contrast thesis statement

What is the difference between a thesis and a thesis statement?

15 components of a thesis structure

Acknowledgments

Table of contents

List of figures and tables

Introduction

Literature review section

Methodology

Results (or Findings)

Practical implications (Recommendation) section

References (or Bibliography)

Glossary (optional)

Thesis examples

Checklist for your thesis evaluation

Preparing your thesis defense

Dissertation vs. Thesis

Wrapping up

Frequently Asked Questions

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