5Z7V0044 Dissertations / Projects L7 Assignment Brief 2024/25 (MAIN)
5Z7V0044 Assignment Task and word count:
For this assignment you need to produce a 12,000-word dissertation, which is based on an original piece of independent research, which you have conducted on your own, within an area appropriate to your degree discipline.
Module Learning Outcomes Assessed of 5Z7V0044:
- Establish a clear link between the extant literature in the field, the development of research aims/objectives/questions, and the design of a clear conceptual framework.
- Apply a rigorous and appropriately justified methodology for collecting and analysing primary and secondary data with due regard to ethical considerations.
- Interpret and present data clearly, integrating data from different sources where applicable and rigorously discussing the findings within extant literature.
- Appraise the implications of the research outcomes in context.
- Critically reflect on learning, academic, and personal development.
World Class Professional Skills (PLOs):
PLO1. Our graduates will apply critical thinking to practical and theoretical problems (assessed)
PLO2. Our graduates will be effective communicators using a range of media (assessed)
PLO3. Our graduates will demonstrate an awareness of ethical, corporate social responsibility and sustainability issues appropriate to the level of study and the discipline context (assessed)
PLO4. Our graduates will demonstrate professional and commercial/corporate awareness (assessed)
AoL Programme learning outcomes:
- PLO1 trait 1.1.1: identify and interrogate data and literature sources using methods appropriate to level of study and to discipline. (assessed).
- PLO1 trait 1.1.2b: Critique theory in discussion and analysis (assessed),
- PLO1 trait 2.1.1: Organise work in a logical structure in order to draw conclusions that follow from line of argument (assessed).
- PLO2 trait 2.1.2: apply consistent and appropriate referencing and in-text citations (assessed).
- PLO2 trait 2.1.3: Demonstrate digital skills appropriate to level and to discipline (assessed).
- PLO3 trait 3.1.1: Recognise, explore and reflect on key ethical issues as they affecting own and others’ practices (assessed)
- PLO4 trait 4.1.1: identify and explain professional and commercial / corporate issues (assessed)
- PLO4 trait 4.1.2: critically evaluate professional and commercial / corporate issues (assessed)
- PLO4 trait 4.1.3: critically reflect upon own development as a current or future professional (assessed)
- PLO4 trait 4.2.1: identify and explain debates in their global and / or international context (assessed)
- PLO4 trait 4.2.2: critically discuss the global and / or international context (assessed)
5Z7V0044 Assignment Details and Instructions:
(Note: further detailed information is provided in the Student Dissertation Handbook, which is available via the unit’s Moodle area).
The purpose of this dissertation or project is to produce a substantial, original, and independent piece of scholarly work that sets out the following:
- Identifying a research problem
- research projects aim and objectives.
- Specific research question or project expected outcomes.
- Critical review of the related literature concluding with a synthesis of the analytical models and concepts that can be used to answer the research questions or project aim.
- An explanation of the indicative research or project design including types, sources, and methods for collecting data, and appropriate data analysis techniques.
- Provide a conclusion that appraises findings and their implications.
- Critically reflect on learning, academic, and personal development. This should be no more than 500 words and it should be included within the appendix.
Supervision
You will be allocated a supervisor who will provide guidance as you progress your research. Your supervisor will arrange 6 online meetings via MS Teams, with yourself and other students who are also being supervised by your supervisor. Supervisors provide guidance on how to write and prepare each chapter, as well as providing formative feedback (once) on your work. Further details regarding the supervision process can be found within the Student Dissertation Handbook.
5Z7V0044 Structure of dissertation
The dissertation has the following elements:
- Titles page
- Acknowledgements
- Declarations
- Abstract
- Chapter 1: Introduction
- Chapter 2: Literature review
- Chapter 3: Methodology
- Chapter 4: Data Analysis and discussion
- Chapter 5: Conclusion and Recommendations
- Personal reflection (included as an appendix)
- Reference list
- Appendices (if used)
NOTE: The final word count is 12,000 words MAXIMUM.
Formatting and structuring of dissertation.
Your dissertation should be submitted electronically on Moodle.
The following pages/sections should be included (in addition to the main body of text):
- Title page, filled in with student number, word count, submission date and title.
- Acknowledgments (if included)
- Assessment declaration form (supplied on Moodle)
- Table of Contents, including page numbers for chapters/sub-chapters, using MS Word Contents page function
- Reference list (See guidelines)
- Appendices (As appropriate)
The following formatting should be used:
- Line spacing: Double-spaced or 2.0 lines.
- Margins: 3.17 cm (1.25″) left, right and 2.54 cm (1″), top and bottom
- Font: Type font is optional, but size should be like Times Roman 12 points on the body text.
- Headings: Chapters and sub-chapters should have headings. Text style (and numbering) is optional but should be used consistently.
- Page number: All pages, except from title page and Assessment Form page, should be numbered in the bottom corner.
- Header: Optional but should include student number only if used.
- Figures and Tables: All figures and tables should be numbered and have a title, plus are fully referenced. Style of numbering is optional.
The numbering should be used when referring to a Figure or Table in the text. All tables and figures should indicate the original source, if applicable. Figure and Table lists are advisable as part of your overall contents page.
5Z7V0044 Additional information.
The expectation is that ALL students will attend all lectures. During the lectures, there will be formative tutorials to introduce the assignment and enhance your ability to draft the assignment.
What you MUST do:
- Use Manchester Met’s Cite Them Right Harvard referencing appropriately and in full both in the text as citations and listed in full, alphabetically, at the end.
- Use grammatically correct formal English.
- Proofread your work.
- Provide a robust structure and context for your analysis.
- You must use your own words – the assignment is designed to demonstrate YOUR knowledge. You must synthesise and interpret what the various authors are saying.
- You must read the assignment brief.
- You must use UK English, not USA English.
- Include a word count on your front page.
- Adhere to the 9:00 pm (21:00) submission deadline on the submission date.
What you must NOT do:
- Not engaged with supervision and not follow your supervisor’s feedback.
- Do not use Wikipedia or other inappropriate websites.
- Do not use generic texts books, these will not contain the information you need.
- Do not leave the task to the last minute.
- Do not go over the word count, no work will be marked over the maximum limit.
- Do not use unnecessary quotations; you have a limited word count.
- Do not submit late.
Do You Need 5Z7V0044 Dissertation of This Assignment
Order Non Plagiarized Assignment
5Z7V0044 Additional Resources:
Please refer to the Module’s Moodle area which has a wealth of resources to help you. This includes a full ready which links to the library, lecture slides, videos, and podcasts.
5Z7V0044 Marking Criteria:
Your submission will be marked using the stepped marking scheme. Your grade will show which marking band your work is in, and whether you are at the top, middle, or bottom of the band. Stepped marking is used to simplify the marking process for staff and make it clearer to students in which band their work sits.

5Z7V0044 Assessment Marking Criteria Rubric
This is how your work will be graded. You will receive an overall grade that will be GUIDED by each of the criteria. The mark will fall into a 2, 5, or 8 (with the exception of 80).
CRITERIA |
50-59% |
60- 69% |
70-79% |
80-89% |
90-100% |
LO1 Establish a clear link between the extant literature in the field, the development of research objectives, and the design of a clear conceptual framework (PLO1 | PLO2 | PLO4) |
There are sufficient relevant links between the literature, research objectives and the data collection (primary or secondary). This is underpinned sufficiently by the conceptual framework underpinning the research, but further detail is required.
|
There are good relevant links between the formulation of the research objectives relative to literature and context, and this is derived from a clear analysis of the separate streams of literature and how they form the focus for the current study. The data collection (primary or secondary) is clearly informed by the conceptual framework underpinning the research.
|
An excellent literature base is assimilated accurately in formulating the study objectives and there is clear consideration of a research gap and the relevance of making a contribution to knowledge. The data design and collection (primary or secondary) is clearly and largely informed by the conceptual framework underpinning the research.
|
An exceptional literature base is assimilated accurately in formulating the study objectives and there is clear consideration of a research gap and the relevance of making a contribution to knowledge. The data design and collection (primary or secondary) is very clearly and very largely informed by the conceptual framework underpinning the research.
|
An outstanding critical literature base is assimilated accurately in formulating the study objectives and there is a very clear and thoughtful consideration of a research gap, contribution to knowledge and the strategies needed for design of the current study. The data collection (primary or secondary) is clearly and very thoroughly informed by the conceptual framework underpinning the research.
|
LO2 Apply a rigorous and appropriately justified methodology for collecting and analysing data / evidence (primary or secondary) with due regard to ethical considerations. (PLO1 | PLO3) |
Data, methods and sources are sufficiently justified. Research approach is sufficiently informed by theory. There is sufficient awareness of currently recognized research methodologies and methods, and of consultancy approaches (if applicable). Research methods are applied, and its choice and appropriateness are sufficiently justified. Justification for the chosen consultancy approaches (if applicable) is limited. |
Data, methods and sources are well justified. Research approach is well informed by theory. There is a good understanding of currently recognized research methodologies and methods, and of consultancy approaches (if applicable). There is a competent use of research methods, and its choice and appropriateness are adequately justified. There is a review of and adequate justification for the chosen consultancy approaches (if applicable).
|
Excellent justification of data, methods and sources. Excellent use of theory to inform the research approach. There is an excellent understanding of currently recognized research methodologies and methods, and of consultancy approaches (if applicable). There is a competent and thorough use of research methods, and its choice and appropriateness are well justified. There is a thorough review of and well argued choice of consultancy approaches (if applicable).
|
Exceptional justification of data, methods and sources. Exceptional use of theory to inform the research approach. There is an exceptional understanding of currently recognized research methodologies and methods, and of consultancy approaches (if applicable). There is a very competent and thorough use of research methods, and its choice and appropriateness are well justified. There is a very thorough review of and well argued choice of consultancy approaches (if applicable).
|
Outstanding justification of data, methods and sources. Outstanding use of theory to inform the research approach. There is an outstanding understanding of currently recognized research methodologies and methods, and of consultancy approaches (if applicable). There is an outstanding use of appropriate (even innovative) methods, and a very robust justification of the methodology / methods employed and of the consultancy approaches taken (if applicable). |
LO3 Interpret and present data clearly; integrating data from different sources where applicable and rigorously discussing the findings within extant literature. (PLO1 | PLO2) |
There is sufficient primary data and/or secondary data collected which is evidenced. Data analysis techniques were satisfactorily applied. The interpretation of data addresses the organizational issues and most of the research objectives but there is room for improvement in the integration of data. Presentation of findings is sufficient, with acceptable referencing supporting the argument, clear structure, and appropriate writing style. |
There is a good amount of relevant primary data and/or secondary data collected which is evidenced. Data analysis techniques were properly applied. The interpretation of data appropriately addresses all the organizational issues and research objectives. Presentation of findings is good with accurate referencing supporting the argument, clear structure and reasonably fluent writing style. |
An excellent collection of extensive and relevant primary data and/or secondary data is evidenced. Data analysis techniques were well applied, exploring several dimensions of the body of evidence. A thorough interpretation of data addresses fully the organizational issues and research objectives. Presentation of findings is clear and accurate. There is consistent referencing interweaving the points made, supporting well the development of the argument. The text is fluently written reflecting a well linked structure. |
An exceptional collection of extensive and relevant primary data and/or secondary data is evidenced. Data analysis techniques were very well applied, exploring several dimensions of the body of evidence. A very thorough interpretation of data addresses fully the organizational issues and research objectives. Excellent presentation of findings. There is consistent referencing interweaving the points made, supporting well the development of the argument. The text is fluently written reflecting a very well linked structure.
|
An outstanding collection of extensive and relevant primary data and/or secondary data is evidenced. Data analysis techniques were extremely well applied, exploring several dimensions of the body of evidence and fully integrating various data sources. A thorough and insightful interpretation of data addresses in great depth all the organizational issues and research objectives. Outstanding presentation of findings. There is very clear, accurate and consistent referencing interweaving the points made, thus providing a sound and robust corroboration to the findings. The text is fluent and very convincing, reflecting a well linked and very cohesive structure.
|
LO4 Appraise the implications of the research outcomes in context (PLO1 | PLO2 | PLO4) |
There is a sufficiently detailed discussion of the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. The discussion is in line with the scope of findings, though lacks critical and forward thinking.
|
There is a good discussion of the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. The discussion, in line with the scope of findings, has some elements of critical and forward thinking.
|
There is a thoughtful and excellent discussion of the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. The discussion, in line with the scope of findings, has substantial elements of critical thinking and a reasonably justified vision (forward thinking).
|
There is a thoughtful and exceptional discussion of the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. The discussion, in line with the scope of findings, has substantial elements of critical thinking and a reasonably justified vision (forward thinking).
|
There is an outstanding discussion of the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. The discussion, in line with the scope of findings, demonstrates original and creative thinking with a well-argued and convincing vision (forward thinking). |
LO5 Critically reflect on learning, academic and personal development (PLO4) |
Sufficient critical reflection on learning. Descriptive personal critical reflection consistent with other elements. |
Good critical reflection on learning, demonstrated by managing the planning and review process. Personal critical reflection demonstrates critical self-awareness of professional development and learning from unit. |
Excellent critical reflection on learning demonstrated. Personal critical reflection demonstrates critical analysis of professional development and learning from unit. |
Exceptional critical reflection on learning journey and professional skills gained. |
Outstanding critical reflection on learning journey and professional skills gained. |
Below Pass Mark
CRITERIA |
0-19% |
20-29% |
30 – 39% |
40-49% |
LO1 Establish a clear link between the extant literature in the field, the development of research objectives, and the design of a clear conceptual framework. (PLO1 | PLO2 | PLO4)
|
There are no relevant links between the literature, research objectives and the data collection (primary or secondary). The research lacks focus. Research objectives are not explicitly stated.
|
There are very limited relevant links between the literature, research objectives and the data collection (primary or secondary). Very weak attempt to identify relevant research focus. Very limited evidence to support arguments. Objectives are unclear.
|
There are limited relevant links between the literature, research objectives and the data collection (primary or secondary). Weak attempt to identify relevant research focus. Limited evidence to support arguments made. Objectives are too broad.
|
There are some but still insufficient relevant links between the literature, research objectives and the data collection (primary or secondary). Relevant research focus is identified but explanation and justification may lack detail, clarity, and evidence, and demonstrate some misunderstandings. Objectives are still loose in expression.
|
LO2 Apply a rigorous and appropriately justified methodology for collecting and analysing primary data with due regard to ethical considerations (ETHOS application). (PLO1 | PLO3) |
No attempt to justify data, methods and sources. Weak attempt without use of theory. Unclear explanation of approach. No evidence of ethical conduct or consideration of ethical issues. |
Very limited attempt to justify data, methods and sources. Any use of theory either too generic or demonstrates fundamental misunderstandings. Extremely limited consideration of generic ethical issues. Unclear if conducted ethically.
|
Limited attempt to justify data, methods and sources. Use of theory may be too generic and/or demonstrate little understanding. Some ethical conduct and consideration of generic ethical issues. |
Basic attempt to justify data, methods and sources. Some descriptive use of relevant theory. Evidence of ethical conduct, but still weak on rationale for this. |
LO3 Interpret and present data clearly; integrating data from different sources where applicable and rigorously discussing the findings within extant literature. (PLO1 | PLO2) |
Data largely in raw state. Any analysis show fundamental misunderstanding(s) of technique(s) and only partially addresses research objectives. No discussion in relation to the literature. |
Very limited data analysis. Presentation unclear/poorly organised. Analysis show several misunderstanding(s) of technique(s) and only partially addresses research objectives. Minimal discussion in relation to the literature review.
|
Limited data analysis. Data is descriptively presented. Analysis show some connection to research objectives but with some misunderstanding(s) of technique(s). Superficial discussion in relation to the literature review. |
Some critical analysis that partially addresses organizational issues. Basic and still insufficient discussion of the findings in relation to the research objectives, poorly related to the literature review. Shows broad understanding of data analysis techniques.
|
LO4 Appraise the implications of the research outcomes in context (PLO1 | PLO2 | PLO4) |
No implications drawn from discussion. This is not addressed or is severely impaired by the insufficiency of research findings. There is no attempt to derive the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. |
Very limited implications drawn that have tenuous links to the discussion. This link is impaired but the insufficiency of research findings. There is very little attempt to derive the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice.
|
Limited implications drawn from discussion. There is limited attempt to derive the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice.
|
Some but still insufficient implications drawn from discussion. There is a weak attempt to derive the impact of findings on organization strategy and management practice. |
LO5 Critically reflect on learning, academic and personal development (PLO4)
|
No evidence of critical reflection on learning demonstrated. Missing written personal critical reflection |
Very limited evidence of critical reflection on learning. Minimal and descriptive personal critical reflection, possibly unsupported by other elements. |
Limited evidence of critical reflection on learning. Some limited descriptive personal critical reflection, possibly unsupported by other elements. |
Some but still insufficient evidence of critical reflection on learning. Some descriptive personal critical reflection consistent with other elements. |