The Newcastle Business School Masters Dissertation Guidelines 20122013

MASTERS DISSERTATION GUIDELINES

Contents Foreword Introduction Dissertation Learning Outcomes Postgraduate Programme Goals Topic Selection Components of the Dissertation Submission of Dissertation Proposal and Supervisor Allocation Supervision Supervisor and student responsibilities and expectations Logbook Staff availability and reviewing draft work Presentation of the dissertation Page layout Writing style Dissertation length Structure of the Masters Dissertation Referencing (including Reference Format) Binding and Submission Submission Procedure Confidentiality Submission dates Late Submission Procedure Failed and Non-submitted Dissertation Working papers Assessment and Marking Indicative Reading List for the Dissertation Appendices Appendix A: Learning Benchmarks Appendix A(i): QAA Descriptor for a qualification at Masters Level Appendix A(ii): NBS Cross Comparative Benchmarks for UG and Masters Dissertations Appendix B: Cover Sheet/Title-Page Example Appendix C: Declarations Appendix D: Abstract Example Appendix E: Table of Contents Example Appendix F: Glossary Example Appendix G: Ethics in Research Appendix G(i): Ethics in research projects Appendix G(ii): Student Research Ethical Issues Form Appendix G(iii): Organisational Consent Form Appendix G(iv): Informed Consent Form for Research Participants Appendix G(v): Ethics Checklist Appendix H: Data Protection Appendix I: Reflective Learning Statement Appendix J: Frequently Asked Questions Appendix K: Turnitin Appendix K(i): Submitting your work to Turnitin Appendix K(ii): How to view the originality report (student instructions) Page 2 3 4 4 4 5 5 7 8 8 9 10 11 11 11 12 12 13 15 15 15 16 16 17 17 19 20 21 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 33 36 38 39 40 43 45 47 49 49 52

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FOREWORD
Welcome to the Masters Dissertation at the Newcastle Business School. This document covers many aspects of the Masters Dissertation process as well as information relating to student/staff responsibilities and appropriate presentation of the dissertation. These guidelines provide comprehensive written guidance to enable both students and staff (in the role of supervisor) to fully understand the dissertation process and follow a common Newcastle Business School approach. This will help to ensure that the challenge presented by this individual piece of work is manageable and that enjoyment and satisfaction are maximised. Supporting your Masters Dissertation These guidelines should contain the answer to any queries you may have about the dissertation. Should you require further information please refer to the eLearning Portal (eLP/Blackboard) site that supports the dissertation module (NX0422). The NX0422 site contains all the forms and information that you need and many other resources. Should you need further help then contact the staff indicated below. Postgraduate Dissertation Administration: Sharon Warham Postgraduate Office, CCE1-417 Email: sharon.warham@northumbria.ac.uk Nigel Coates Email: nigel.coates@northumbria.ac.uk

Masters Dissertation Co-ordinator:

Academic Facilitators/Programme Administrators are also able to help with any aspects of the administrative arrangements. We wish you every success with your Masters Dissertation, good luck! Nigel Coates Masters Dissertation Co-ordinator Acknowledgements Thanks to all students and staff who have contributed generously to the development and production of this document. Comments and feedback on dissertation documents are welcome in order to allow continuous improvement. If you have any comments, please give these to the Masters Dissertation Co-ordinator.

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INTRODUCTION
The guidelines are intended to help students of the Newcastle Business School in the preparation of the dissertation necessary to obtain their qualification and should be read carefully. The Masters Dissertation is an individual piece of work and there is no intention to unduly restrict students in their approach and therefore this document can only be in the form of guidelines. A successful dissertation for the Masters degree will present a thorough and critical review of relevant literature and of current subject knowledge. It will demonstrate high levels of analytical and critical awareness, the ability to synthesise theories and the ability to relate theory to practice. The theoretical base will be tested against practical illustration(s). Further information on the Learning Benchmarks can be found in Appendix A. Dissertation Learning Outcomes 1. Select, critically discuss and apply an appropriate research methodology and method(s) to their chosen research topic. 2. Demonstrate an awareness of the contexts that impact upon the research topics. 3. Demonstrate a rigorous understanding of the theory and literature relevant to the issues under investigation and link this to the research method(s). 4. Conduct research and organise the findings into a comprehensive and explicit structure that is critically assessed and is linked to the conclusions drawn. 5. Critically reflect on the processes involved in the research and the contribution of the research to the topic area. 6. Illustrate and document progress within the dissertation process by providing an adequate set of working papers and log book. Postgraduate Programme Goals Goal 1: Goal 2: Goal 3: Goal 4: Goal 5: Be independent, reflective critical thinkers Be culturally and ethically aware Have developed leadership and management capability Have developed and applied knowledge of international business and management theory Have developed a range of research skills and project capabilities

MSc International Human Resource Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of International Human Resource Management MSc Global Financial Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Global Financial Management MSc Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc Strategic Marketing Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Marketing MA Human Resource Management and Development Goal 6: Developed and critically applied Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Human Resource Management and Development MBA Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a Post-Experience Perspective MSc Global Business Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a Global Perspective MSc Business with Programmes Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a relevant Specialist Perspective Page | 4

TOPIC SELECTION
Sources for Topic Ideas Ideas for topics can be gleaned from many sources. Work-place experiences, course work and readings are just a few. Teaching staff may also be useful as a source of ideas. In addition, Masters Dissertations from previous years are available to view on the eLP. Guidelines for Suitable Topics The student can assume that the topic as initially conceived may evolve as the dissertation progresses. The goal is to find a topic that is general enough to be significant, but specific enough to be focused. In any event, the final topic may not be changed without the consent of the Dissertation Supervisor. Experience has shown that this is not normally a matter of contention.

COMPONENTS OF THE MASTERS DISSERTATION

The arrangement of the completed dissertation is in three stages, preliminaries, the body of work, and end material. Preliminaries (to be arranged in the following order) Covers Front sheet/Title Page Declarations Abstract Acknowledgements Table of Contents Glossary The Body of Work The End Material References Bibliography Appendices Back cover sheet Further details of the format of the preliminaries and end material are provided later in this document. Main sections of the dissertation Title The title should be succinct yet clearly specify the content of the report. This should be descriptive and explicit rather than poetic or implicit. It should be agreed and finalised as part of the final draft. It may be different from the original proposed title. Abstract The purpose of the abstract is to summarise the entire dissertation, including a description of the problem, the students contributions, and conclusions. Four keywords are required. Acknowledgements The student may wish to thank those people who have been particularly helpful in the preparation of the dissertation. Consideration of persons external to the Newcastle Business School is particularly appropriate. Facetious acknowledgements are not acceptable. Declarations and Word Count a declaration page signed by the student MUST be included. See Appendix C of this document for the Declaration template. Please do not forget to sign the Declaration. Introduction The purpose of this section is to contextualise the study. This means that the significance or importance of the subject is set out. If there is no apparent importance to the study to any external reader, the topic may not be appropriate. Personal interest may inspire selection of the dissertation topic, but ultimately, its importance to others should be specified. This can often be done by positioning the dissertation in relation to other work that has been published either as an advancement, continuation, compilation or verification. This section should also tell the reader how the topic will be unfolded and the Page | 5

order of forthcoming material. Body of Work The sections of each dissertation will differ, but in any case should progress logically, starting with a critical review of existing knowledge (the literature review), presentation of a summary or synthesis, introduction of research methodology and findings, if applicable, or introduction of case material. The Literature Review - This will include the following qualities: The topic of the dissertation will derive from a systematic body of knowledge; The review of this knowledge is made as current as possible; The knowledge is organised into a comprehensible and explicit structure; All major points are included and extraneous information omitted; Critical theoretical analysis/evaluation informs the choice of research approaches/methods; A summary is produced outlining the current state of the knowledge. It is further implied that the result of the literature review will be used either in 1) a situation for which the student has collected primary data OR 2) to critically examine and assess the operation of this knowledge in an existing case study OR 3) to re-evaluate existing published data or knowledge to derive new knowledge or meaning. The main points of the body of knowledge being synthesised are to be i) critically selected and analysed and ii) the strengths and weaknesses of the synthesis itself are to be discussed and appropriate conclusions drawn. Research methodology and methods - A degree of proficiency in the understanding, selection and execution of research methodologies and methods must be evident. It is expected that these procedures will provide:
i) ii)

a defensible verification of the ideas put forward in the dissertation, development and exploration of the ideas in applied conditions. If an existing case is presented, sufficient secondary research must be attempted to produce a coherent and informed critical evaluation of that case.

It is also possible that the application of knowledge can be made under some other circumstances not directly indicated here, so long as the use of the knowledge is appropriate and illustrative. The connection between the knowledge and the original case or primary data for the dissertation must be explicitly articulated and the case or data be presented as a valid and reliable means of verification of this knowledge. If the goal of the dissertation is not data based but conceptual in nature, then the validity and verifiability of the concepts must be established. Whenever data is being collected or used, students must adhere to the University Regulations relating to Ethics and Data Protection. Details of these procedures are included in Appendix G and Appendix H respectively. Conclusion This section explains the relations between the body of knowledge and the case or new finding. It should present the case for the dissertations success in meeting its goals, as well as any shortcomings and limitations that apply. It may suggest further work or study needed on the topic, as well as ways the new work can be used or applied in other cases. It is not meant to be a summary or restatement of the entire dissertation, which belongs in the abstract. If the student has developed any strong personal opinions about the subject this is the place where such content is appropriate. Appendices Often the concepts of the study can be clarified in graphic form, or data presented in tabular form. Normally, this material should be entered into the text at or near the place it is referred to in the text. Where such material would be inconvenient to include in the text itself, it can be included in an appendix. As a general rule, if figures, tables, charts or quotes are less than a full page and can be conveniently included in the text, you will want to do so, since reference to appendices is awkward for the reader. All such material, in the text or at the end, should be titled and sequentially numbered. Tabular material presented in landscape format, should be bound with the top of the table to the spine. Appendices are labelled alphabetically, although if there is little such material and it is all of a similar nature, it may all be included in one Appendix.

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SUBMISSION OF DISSERTATION PROPOSAL AND SUPERVISOR ALLOCATION After the Enhanced Dissertation week (Full time students) and the Dissertation workshop (Part time), students are required to submit a dissertation proposal which will in part inform the allocation of an appropriate supervisor. The proposal process requires the student to complete a library information sources exercise. The proposal will be assessed and is worth 10% of the 60 credit point dissertation module (the remaining 90% for the completed dissertation). The submission date(s) for the proposal and library information sources exercise will be announced using the eLP. Masters Dissertation Proposal Instructions This information tells you how to structure your research proposal using the sections below. The Dissertation Proposal Form (template) is available from the eLP under the Dissertation Proposal section, as well as some sample exemplar proposals with generic feedback. The word count for the proposal is 1500-2000 words. Here are the sections of the Proposal: Section 1: Researchable Topic Area (Approx. 150-200 words) You should include background and issue(s) underlying your research topic area. Section 2: Objectives for the Research (Approx. 80-100 words) You should state 3-4 maximum research objectives, relating to academic theories, your proposed investigations, your analysis and your conclusions. Section 3: Literature Review (Approx. 500-700 words) You should identify and discuss the academic theories and some current research relevant to your researchable topic area. Section 4: Details of your research (Approx. 500-700 words) You should identify who or what you will use to obtain your data or information; explain how you will collect this data / information and how you will get access; identify how you are going to analyse your data and information. Section 5: Research Ethics (Approx. 50-100 words) (a) If your study involves people, briefly describe what you will consider in order to ensure that your research follows the Universitys Ethical Policies and Procedures. (b) If your study involves secondary data only, you should advise us of any ethical issues or the absence of any ethical issues. Section 6: Conclusions (Approx. 100-200 words) You should describe what your research will achieve by referring back to your objectives. Section 7: Timetable for your research Give a month by month indication of when you are going to work on various parts of your dissertation (e.g. your literature review; your collection of data / information; your analysis of data / information etc) Section 8: References List in sources you have used in the production of your proposal. This must be in the correct format (APA style).

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SUPERVISION
Supervisor and student responsibilities and expectations This section gives guidance on nature of the student/supervisor relationship and it expected that all staff and students will adhere to these. It is the responsibility of the student to comply with each of the guidelines laid down in this manual. The guidelines, may, in certain circumstances, be overridden by the Dissertation Supervisor, the Masters Dissertation Co-ordinator or the appropriate Newcastle Business School administration. However, any such changes will only be valid and binding if they are committed to writing, circulated and signed by the relevant parties before submission of the final work. Failure of the student to meet these responsibilities may cause the final mark to be reduced or may invalidate, delay or prevent the successful completion of the dissertation. Once a dissertation Supervisor is assigned, it is the student's responsibility to make and continue regular contact with the supervisor. If a supervisor does not respond to student messages within a week then students should contact the PG Office. It is essential to maintain regular contact with your supervisor. Regular contact helps to ensure that your supervisor is better aware of your progress and the sources of your materials as your dissertation develops. Students should be aware that any dissertation which is produced with minimal or zero contact with supervisor will inevitably be scrutinised with extra care with respect to the origin of the work. The total number of hours allocated for supervision is eight hours, of which four hours are provided for student supervisor contact. The other four hours are allocated to the marking process. Supervision is nominally six 40 minute meetings but can be arranged differently, for shorter or longer periods, at the request of the student and agreed through negotiation between student and supervisor. Supervision can also be electronic via email or by telephone, but has to be with the explicit agreement of the supervisor. Some supervisors may not wish to offer supervision by email or telephone. Supervision by electronic means is considered as part of the supervision allowance, which includes time taken to read draft sections, summaries or questions submitted in electronic form or hard copy by students. Electronic supervision and the review of written materials should therefore be included as part of the overall allowance and recorded in the students Supervision Logbook by the student and signed off by both student and supervisor. There is therefore a limit to the amount of written material that a student can reasonably expect a supervisor to review. Students are therefore required to be selective and to negotiate arrangements in advance with supervisors, to obtain a clear understanding of what aspects are to be submitted in draft or summary form within such reasonable limits. Staff cannot compensate for failure of the student to use meetings early in the dissertation period by providing meetings compressed into the final stages of the dissertation period. Staff are often busy and students must be proactive in organising meetings in a timely manner to ensure that they receive the support they need. Students are, save for exceptional circumstances, supervised during the teaching periods of their programmes. No guarantees are available regarding supervision occurring out of teaching periods (for example over the Christmas/New Year break) please see Staff availability section. Supervisor expectations General 1. Students will treat the supervisor and their colleagues with respect. 2. Students will take responsibility for their own dissertation. It does not belong to the supervisor or to their colleagues. 3. Selection of a suitable topic rests with the student; however the Dissertation Supervisor or any member of staff may be approached for suggestions and ideas. The student cannot be required by a member of staff to undertake a topic that is not acceptable to the student. Meetings 1. Students will attend all pre-arranged meetings or provide at least 24 hours notice of nonattendance. 2. Students will attend meetings with personal writing and note-taking equipment. 3. Students will make a report on their progress at each meeting, working steadily through the dissertation period. Other Support 1. Students are responsible for their own dissertation. Students will recognise that the supervisor will advise but will not instruct. Page | 8

2.

3. 4.

5. 6.

7.

Students will set their own direction. The supervisors role is to help the student achieve their own objectives but to ensure that the dissertation belongs to the student; the supervisor will not intervene in the direction or objectives of the dissertation. Students will only contact the supervisor on substantive issues, after having exhausted other legitimate avenues to rectify their query (eg Libraries). Students will provide written work in draft form by the dates and with the content agreed from time to time. Adequate time, usually one week, should be allowed between the submission of written work and a meeting to discuss it, though this may be varied by mutual consent. Students will present written work only when agreed with the supervisor. Students will recognise that the supervisors support will primarily concern process i.e. how the dissertation is undertaken, rather than the detailed content of the dissertation that may fall outside the supervisors area of specific knowledge. Students will not ask the supervisor whether their dissertation will pass, or what mark it may achieve.

Student expectations General 1. The supervisor will treat all students with respect. 2. The supervisor will support the students dissertation but always recognise that the dissertation belongs to the Student. 3. The supervisor will give a similar level of support to all students, recognising that students vary in the legitimate demands they may make upon supervisors. Meetings 1. Supervisors will respond to students requests for a meeting within five working days, such requests will normally be made using e-mail. 2. The supervisor and student will meet usually about six times and normally for up to 40 minutes per meeting. The student will discuss their progress and the supervisor will answer any reasonable question the student raises. If the supervisor is unable to answer a reasonable question, s/he will contact the student with the answer no more than a week after the meeting. 3. The supervisor will attend all pre-arranged meetings or provide at least 24 hours notice of nonattendance, giving the students alternative dates for the meeting. 4. The supervisor will be fully prepared for all meetings, having considered any submitted student work. Other Support 1. The supervisor will give the best guidance s/he can in assisting the student to achieve their objective. 2. The supervisor will not intervene in the direction or objectives of the dissertation and will not allow any previous disagreement on this to damage the quality of advice s/he gives. 3. The supervisor will consider all submitted written work usually no later than one week from the date of submission. 4. The supervisor will review a maximum of one draft chapter and will not review a complete draft. In reviewing a draft chapter, the supervisor will provide general comments regarding the writing style, referencing and content but will not give a word-by-word appraisal of the draft. The Masters Dissertation Logbook This is a dated, chronological record of your dissertation progress. The Logbook is available via the eLP and you will be provided with a printed copy of the Logbook. You should use the Logbook to record items such as: Date and times of meetings with your supervisor Agenda Questions Notes of discussion Action plan Date of next meeting The Logbook is to be submitted with your dissertation since it provides evidence of how well you have managed the dissertation process. It will also enable the supervisor to give better information to prospective employers regarding your organisational and time management skills. It will also enable you to write a more informative reflective statement to accompany your submission. Page | 9

You should keep all your working papers as your work progresses since you may be asked to submit them see Working papers section. Staff availability and reviewing draft work Staff will normally be available during semester 1 and 2 teaching periods and up to the end of the second week in July. However, because of annual leave and other commitments, there will be no formal requirement for staff to provide supervision during the last two weeks of July, during August, the last two weeks of December or the first week of January. The expectation is that students may request that supervisors review some elements/aspects of written work. Supervisors are not expected to review whole drafts of dissertations or even drafts of whole chapters. (Supervisors may review excerpts or certain chapters but will not review a complete draft). Students are required to retain ownership of the dissertation and the supervisor is required to advise on, and provide support for the process rather than the content of the dissertation. Students may wish to submit hard copy or emails containing aspects of their dissertation or questions they wish to discuss with their supervisor. Such requests are expected to be reasonable and should be prepared by the student in such form as to aid easy assimilation by the supervisor. This could include some (but not all) of the following: draft Abstract, Introduction, Contents List etc. Here are some examples of what students might submit to their supervisor for discussion: Literature Review: a resume of key issues, summaries of main elements, developed models of best practice/best fit, a summary of the conclusions to the literature review. Methodology section: an outline of the chosen methodology, approaches/methods, examples of interview questions or draft questionnaires. Data/Information analysis: strategies/formulae for statistical analysis, a draft of key aspects of data/information analysis Synthesis/Findings/Conclusions: a draft of key elements. Remote Supervision Individual students are normally expected to work on their dissertation within reasonable proximity of Newcastle Business School under the direct guidance of their Supervisor. However, in exceptional circumstances, remote supervision may be necessary. This is usually due to personal, workplace or family circumstances. This arrangement is negotiated in advance between the student, the Programme Leader and the Supervisor. It may be accommodated within the process using a range of communication techniques. Please note, that where such arrangements are made, it is still necessary that the student and the supervisor have at least one substantive face to face meeting within the process. Students should ensure that they have adequate access to library, internet and e-mail facilities, if working remotely on their dissertation.

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PRESENTATION OF THE DISSERTATION

An outline guide is provided here. Please refer to the Newcastle Business School Masters Dissertations Examples of Good Practice on the eLP for student examples of appropriate Masters Dissertation Cover Pages, Title Pages, Contents Lists and Abstracts. Page Layout Pages should be numbered in sequence at the top right hand corner, starting with and including the title page. Margins and headings: the specifications are 38mm (1 /2) left margin, 31 mm (1 /4) on the other three sides. The page number should be above the top margin line. The right margin should be unjustified (left ragged), since the spacing between words used to make the right margin even inhibits readability greatly, while adding little aesthetically. Headers and footers are to be used with discretion. Please do NOT include your name in any header or footer. Tables and charts should be numbered in sequence by chapter, eg Table 3.1 is the first table in Chapter 3. Each figure should be properly referenced and accompanied by a descriptive title that completely explains the contents of the figure. It is not acceptable to insert photocopies of tables into the body of the dissertation. Tables should be word processed into the dissertation. In broad terms this principle also applies to diagrams no photocopies from books etc. There will, of course, be occasions when a photocopy of a table or a diagram is specifically required in order to illustrate points peculiar to the original. Use of such photocopies must be cleared with the supervisor. Similar principles apply to the appendices with regard to tables and diagrams. It is recognised that there will be circumstances (eg a dissertation on advertising) where photocopies are necessary. Another example might be a sample of a completed questionnaire. The dissertation must be word- processed, and final copy must be printed single sided on A4 paper. Spacing may either be set at double or one and a half line spacing, depending on the machine used. Spacing greater than double spacing is not acceptable. Direct quotations may be presented starting on a new line and in single spacing, indented both left and right. The body of the dissertation should be in font size 12 and Arial is the Newcastle Business School standard font face. Both the draft and final copies of the dissertation must be produced in such a manner that the text is entirely legible. This means a text suitable for good quality reproduction from a photocopier. Dissertations can be printed in either Black or Colour. Please note that there are no extra marks for colour and that the University makes no guarantee as to the provision of colour printing facilities. Writing Style The level of writing must be appropriate to the level of the Masters degree. Specifically, acute attention should be paid to correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure and clarity of style. Also, it is the students responsibility to edit the text for typing errors, uncover all spelling errors, including dissertations that have been typed by another party. Note that a spell-check programme does not uncover all spelling errors e.g. principal and principle can be confused. It should be decided (in consultation with the supervisor) whether the use of the first person (I, we, us) is appropriate for the dissertation. The library looks after study skills and students can get help from the enquiry desk points at CCE and City Campus libraries. See online support for details.
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Dissertation Length The target word count is 15,000 words. The word count is to be stated in the declaration and the word count does not include: Title page Contents page Declarations page Reference list Bibliography Acknowledgements Appendices (including reflective learning statement) Glossary Abstract Appropriate tables, figures and illustrations Quotes from interviews and focus groups End material

Please note, in text citations [e.g. (Smith, 2011)] and direct secondary quotations [e.g. dib-dab nonsense analysis (Smith, 2011 p.123)] are INCLUDED in the word count. If this word count is falsified, students are reminded that under ARNA page 30 Section 3.4 this will be regarded as academic misconduct. You are required to integrate ideas in a succinct way (i.e. without unnecessary description and context). This is a necessary skill. Penalties The acceptable length of this dissertation is between 13,500 and 16,500 words. If your work is above this, the following penalty will apply: The final mark is reduced by 10% if the word length is exceeded by more than 10% over 15,000 (i.e. 16,501). For example a mark of 70% would be reduced to 63%. Dissertations shorter than 13,500 words will not attract a specific penalty as it is anticipated their short nature will affect the overall quality anyway. Structure of the Masters Dissertation

Preliminaries
Cover sheet/Title Page: For layout see Appendix B to this guidebook Declarations See Appendix C Abstract: In no less than 200 and no more than 300 words see Appendix D Acknowledgements: Optional but recommended Table of Contents: Formatted as per example Appendix E Glossary: If your dissertation contains unfamiliar abbreviations or technical terms it is helpful to include a glossary at this point example Appendix F

Body of Work
Presented as a series of chapters beginning with an Introduction and ending with a Conclusion.

End Material
References: A list of specific works referred to directly in the text.

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Bibliography: Optional List of additional material consulted, but not directly cited in the text. Note the distinction between this section and References do not duplicate sources, they should be either in References or Bibliography but not both. Appendices: Designed for the optional inclusion of charts, graphs, additional data, photographs, maps, sample questionnaires/interview schedules etc. These must be bound in A4 format. It is not appropriate to include photocopies of journal articles or similar material. The Reflective statement to be included in this section see Appendix I for further information. Referencing The intellectual work of others that is being summarised in the dissertation must be attributed to its source. It is assumed that all ideas, opinions, conclusions, specific wordings, quotations, conceptual structures and data, whether reproduced exactly or in paraphrase, which are not referenced to another source are the work of the student. If this is not the case, an act of plagiarism may have occurred, which is cause for disciplinary action at the programme or university level. The importance of correct and appropriate REFERENCING cannot be over-emphasized. Please pay particular attention to originality and the proper acknowledgement of your sources. It is important that the work you submit: Is original and your own work Gives proper acknowledgement to any work by others which is used in completing your dissertation Originality means that the dissertation subject is presented in a way which differs from any other: Published works Study guides Dissertations of other students, past or present This does not preclude the use of the same material from wider reading (to support it with examples, or relevant opinions and ideas, or to place it within the context of existing knowledge). In fact, credit is specifically given for references in the assessment scheme. It does mean, however, that the sources of any such material MUST be identified. You should ensure that: Words or phrases taken verbatim from published works are placed in quotation marks and the source acknowledged. Quotations take the form of brief relevant extracts (only exceptionally exceeding 100 words in length). Where lengthier use of a published work is appropriate, you may summarise or paraphrase an authors words, but the source of the summary or paraphrase must again be fully acknowledged by textual reference. Unacknowledged use of the work of others (plagiarism) is regarded as dishonest practice and will be dealt with on that basis, as per the Universitys Regulations. Format of references You must use the correct referencing system and that is the APA system. The APA method of referencing uses the author's name and the date of the publication. In-text citations give brief details of the work you are referring to in your text. References are listed at the end of the text in alphabetical order by the author's name. The general format of an electronic journal reference in the APA style is shown below: Coutu, D. (2009). Why Teams Don't Work. Harvard Business Review, 87(5), 98-105. Retrieved 29 April 2012 from EBSCO http://searchebscohost.com Page | 13
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Author/s name and initials are listed first, followed by year of publication in brackets. Then there is the title of article and the journal where the article appears, which is in italics. Then state the volume and issue number (in brackets) along with the pages where article can be located. Finally add the date the article was retrieved and then the name of the database, followed by the web address. Wherever possible use the homepage URL rather than the full and extended web address. For further information on why it is important to reference accurately go to the Referencing and Plagiarism topic in Skills Plus available from the Library website: www.northumbria.ac.uk/skillsplus You will find other useful help guides on Skills Plus to help you with the skills involved in writing your dissertation. You may also find these useful for referencing: Direct link: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/static/5007/llspdf/skills/refapa.pdf? American Psychological Association (2010) The concise rules of APA style, (6 ed.), Washington DC: American Psychological Association - copies of this book are available in the Library.
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BINDING AND SUBMISSION Submission procedure Collect the BLUE Masters Dissertation covers from the Postgraduate Office. Dissertations may be bound for a small fee at either: The University Graphics, Trinity Building or The University Library, Ground Floor REMEMBER: You must leave sufficient time for binding your dissertation. Leave at least 48 hours for binding; however it may be best to check with the venue beforehand, to see how long you will need to wait for your dissertations to be bound. NB Dissertations which have to be re-bound, due to student error (e.g. omitting pages), will be subject to a second binding fee. Students are required to submit the following to the Postgraduate Office by the due date: TWO hard copies of their final dissertation thermally bound with the correct covers A copy of their final dissertation on CD or USB memory stick. The electronic version must contain the full dissertation with the main body in one Word document (not PDF) and it must be an exact duplicate of the hard copy version. A copy of their Supervision Logbook Students are also required to submit a FULL AND FINAL VERSION of their dissertation (including all references) via the Turnitin link on the NX0422 site on the eLP. The link is found by following: o Assessments Turnitin NBS Masters Dissertation o Ensure that you are submitting to the FINAL SUBMISSION (see Appendix K for information on how to use the Turnitin software via NX0422 eLP site) Students will have the opportunity to submit two drafts of their dissertation to the Turnitin UK service (in order to check they are correctly citing sources and to make sure they have not plagiarised) prior to submission of the final version of their dissertation. Students are strongly recommended to have a third copy bound as a personal reference copy for security. Confidentiality This is regarded as an exceptional procedure and must be agreed with the Dissertation Supervisor and declared on submission. A yellow sticker (to indicate confidentiality) will be provided by the Administrator on request and should be placed on the top right hand corner of the front cover of each copy. It is possible (subject to arrangements with the Postgraduate Office) for dissertations under these circumstances to be returned to the author but the University gives no guarantee in this respect. Confidential dissertations are usually pulped or shredded.

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Submission dates Your submission date will be determined by your mode of attendance (full-time or part-time) and the time at which you begin your supervision. Full-Time Programmes (UK Based) FT programmes starting at the end of September 2012 submit 19 September 2013 FT programmes starting at the end of January 2013 submit 23 January 2014 Part-Time Programmes (UK Based) PT programmes starting at the end of September 2012 submit 19 September 2013 CV Programmes (Full-time and Part-time) (Partner Institutions) Contact your School Administration Office for details of your submission date. Masters dissertations MUST be submitted by 12noon (1200 hours) for full-time students and 2pm (1400 hours) for part-time students on the due date to the Postgraduate Office. Dissertations are formally logged-in with time and date of submission and you will be given a receipt for your work.

Late Submission Procedure In exceptional circumstances students may be granted an extension up to a maximum of two weeks from the original submission date for submission of the final dissertation. The request for an extension must come before the original deadline and there must be substantive reasons for this, such as illness, family or other personal circumstances. It is usual that written medical/professional evidence will be provided by the student to support their request. The extension has to be agreed and authorised by the Postgraduate Academic Facilitator and/or Dissertation Administrator/Coordinator. This is normally arranged and confirmed by email. Any student requiring an extension must contact their Academic Facilitator/Programme Administrator in the first instance. Late submission approval applies to the submission of the dissertation only. It does not entitle the student to additional supervision, nor to carry over any unused supervision. Newcastle Business School undertakes to provide supervision allotted in the time period outlined it is the students responsibility to arrange supervision within that time period. Students requiring longer extension periods should apply for an extension due to Personal Extenuating Circumstances (PEC) through the Newcastle Business School Postgraduate Office. The Masters dissertation is subject to the same University Regulations as any other module (or subject) and un-authorized late submission will result in a ZERO mark (0%). Students MUST comply with the above procedure if submitting late. PLEASE NOTE: ONLY THE POSTGRADUATE ACADEMIC FACILITATOR OR DISSERTATION ADMINISTRATOR/COORDINATOR CAN AUTHORISE EXTENSIONS FOR THE MASTERS DISSERTATION. The conditions for late submission of the dissertation are subject to the standard Newcastle Business School regulations: a) Late submission with just cause

An example of just cause for late submission is illness, supported by doctors certificate. The following are examples of NOT just cause: i) a corrupt data storage accompanied by failure to keep a back-up copy on the U drive, ii) short term pressure of work. b) Late submission without just cause

Students who have submitted late dissertations without just cause may be awarded a ZERO mark by the Examination Board - just as with unapproved late submissions of assessments. The Business School will make every effort to ensure, but cannot guarantee, that late authorised dissertations are considered at the next Examination Board or if exceptionally late, at a later Examination Board. Page | 16

Failed and non-submitted dissertations 1. If you fail your dissertation the first time, you would normally be given one resubmission opportunity following the Progression and Awards Board (PAB). Feedback from the supervisor and second markers will be provided and you would have until the next deadline date to work on your resubmission. If you wish, you may have one meeting or a telephone discussion with your supervisor to clarify what is required. Normally, you would not receive any further supervision for this activity. As with other referral work, the maximum mark you would get for the re-submitted dissertation, provided it passes, is 50%. When submitting your revised dissertation you should include an appendix detailing what you were asked to do and how you have addressed these issues in your resubmission. 2. If you do not submit your dissertation by the deadline, with no extenuating circumstances, an absent mark is recorded and you will be deemed to have failed the dissertation. In such circumstances, you would normally be given one resubmission opportunity at the PAB. You could then submit your dissertation, as a referral, at the next submission deadline. You would not be provided with any supervision in this period. As with other referral work, the maximum mark you would get for the submitted dissertation in this case, provided it passes, is 50%. You would not have any further resubmission opportunity. In the case of failed re-submitted dissertations, you would normally be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma. Working papers As your work progresses, you will build up a collection of materials that you have used to put together your dissertation. Here are some examples of what your working papers may include. From the literature review: Copies of academic journal articles Copies of specific parts of books (perhaps annotated) or professional publications Drafts of your literature review Sections of writing that you have done but not used in the final copy Printed web pages used in your research From your analysis and results sections: Versions of questionnaires / questions for interviews Completed questionnaires/recorded or transcribed interviews or notes from interviews Attempts at analysis with corrections and annotation as you refine your ideas Excel/SPSS output If your dissertation includes calculations, the working papers for those would be expected. And if your dissertation includes a survey or questionnaire, the original papers for those should be kept along with names and addresses of any firms or individuals involved. Keep all computer-based material on CD or USB memory stick. Production of working papers includes being able to produce the CD or USB memory stick. These working papers must be retained by the student until formally notified of the award of their degree. Please ensure you keep your working papers safe because you may be asked to submit them for examination when your dissertation is being marked. Therefore working papers must be accessible, so DO NOT pack them away in an inaccessible place such as luggage you are shipping home. Failure to produce working papers when requested by the University to do so constitutes an academic misconduct, which may adversely affect the awarding of the students degree. If it is not possible to establish, by inspection of the working papers, the sources of material in the dissertation, the award of the degree will be delayed until the matter is resolved.

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Request for working papers A random sample of students will be selected and notified prior to their dissertation submission date that they are required to submit their working papers with their dissertation. Individual supervisors may also request working papers for any of the students they are supervising and working papers can be requested after inspection of the Turnitin Reports. Failure by the student to produce an adequate set of working papers when requested will result in a fail grade of zero being awarded for their dissertation. To facilitate this process it is the responsibility of ALL students to ensure the Postgraduate Office has their correct e-mail and postal correspondence address. Where an academic irregularity is suspected in relation to the dissertation, working papers will be requested to be submitted by the student (in ALL cases). The student will have 1 week from notification to provide an adequate set of working papers. Failure by the student to produce an adequate set of working papers will result in a fail grade of zero being awarded for their dissertation. Once the working papers have been examined by the assessor (normally the supervisor) any concerns will be followed up via an informal discussion with the student (preferably in person) and the Masters Dissertation Co-ordinator (or their nominee). Newcastle Business School will take all reasonable steps to arrange a mutually convenient time for the informal meeting to take place. If the student is not able to attend in person a telephone conversation call may be possible. If the student fails to take part in this meeting or if following the meeting concerns regarding academic irregularity are still outstanding then this will result in consideration of the case by an Academic Misconduct Panel. The award of the degree will be delayed until the matter is resolved.

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ASSESSMENT AND MARKING The markers will be assessing the extent to which the dissertation contains: A professional style of presentation and layout. A clear explanation of the background, rationale and objectives of the investigation. A sound review of current academic knowledge underpinning the research work and its relevance. Rigorous and well-designed methodology approaches and methods used in the investigation. A thorough analysis, evaluation and discussion of the data gathered. A comprehensive set of conclusions and recommendations arising from the investigation. A standard marking form will be used that assesses the work against the Newcastle Business School Cross Comparative Benchmarks for Undergraduate and Masters Dissertations (Appendix A(ii)). The dissertation will be assessed independently by two academic members of staff; normally the supervisor and a second marker. A final mark is then agreed between the two markers. Occasionally, a dissertation may be assessed by a third marker. Additionally, a sample of dissertations is assessed by relevant external examiners. Please remember that Supervisors will not disclose potential marks to students at any stage whilst the work is underway or being formally assessed (as stated in the Expectations section of these guidelines). Students will receive their mark and a copy of the completed assessment sheet following the conclusion of the examination boards. The Masters Dissertation mark will equal 90% of the module assessment, and the remaining 10% is for the Dissertation proposal. Students should note that a pass mark for the dissertation can be used to compensate a fail mark for the proposal. Provided the dissertation is passed with a mark of 50% or more, when the composite mark results in an overall mark of less than 50%, a mark of 50% will be awarded for the module.

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MASTERS DISSERTATION INDICATIVE READING LIST Coates, N. & Sloan D. (2012) The Newcastle Business School Masters Dissertation. Pearson Custom Publishing. Anderson, J. & Poole, M. (2002). Assignment and Thesis Writing. 4th edn. Wiley. Baker, M. J. (2011). Business and Management Research: How To Complete Your Research Project rd Successfully. 3 ed. Westburn Publishers. Blaxter, L., Hughes, C. & Tight, M. (2010). How to Research. 4 ed. Open University Press available as an ebook. Bryman, A. (2011). Doing research in organizations.3 ed. Routledge. Burrell, G. & Morgan, G. (2008). Sociological Paradigms and Organisational Analysis: elements of the sociology of corporate life. Ashgate Cassell, C. & Symon, G. (2004). Essential Guide to Qualitative Methods in Organizational Research. Sage Cassell, C.,Symon, G. & Dickson R. (2000). Expanding our research and practice through innovative research methods, European journal of work and organizational psychology, Vol. 9, no.4. Creswell, J. (2007). Qualitative inquiry & research design: choosing among five approaches. 2 Sage. Creswell, J. (2008). Research Design: Quantitative and Qualitative and Mixed Method rd Approaches. 3 ed.. Sage. Easterby-Smith, M., Thorpe, R., & Jackson, P. (2008). Management Research: An Introduction. 3 ed. Sage. Fisher, C. M. (2010). Researching and Writing a Dissertation: A Guidebook for Business Students. 3 ed.. Financial Times/Prentice Hall ebook available. Gill, J. (2009). Research Methods for Managers. 4 ed. Sage. Meloy, J. (2002). Writing the Qualitative Dissertation: Understanding by Doing. 2 Erlbaum ebook available.
nd th rd rd nd rd th

ed..

ed.. Lawrence

Oppenheim, A. N. (1992). Questionnaire Design, Interviewing and Attitude Measurement. Pinter. Robson, C. (2011). Real World Research: A Resource for Social Scientists and Practitionerrd Researchers. 3 ed. Blackwell Saldana. J. (2009). The Coding Manual for Qualitative Researchers. London: Sage Saunders, M., Lewis P. & Thornhill, A (2009). Research Methods for Business Students. 5 ed. Prentice Hall ebook available.
th

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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: Learning Benchmarks APPENDIX A(i): QAA DESCRIPTOR FOR A QUALIFICATION AT MASTERS (M) LEVEL: MASTERS DEGREE Masters degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated:
(i)

a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study, or area of professional practice; a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship; techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline;

(ii)

(iii) originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established

(iv) conceptual understanding that enables the student;

- to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline; and - to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:
a)

deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and nonspecialist audiences; demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level; continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level;

b)

c)

and will have:

d)

the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: - the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility - decision making in complex and unpredictable situations; and - the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Source: The framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (2001)

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APPENDIX A(ii): NEWCASTLE BUSINESS SCHOOL CROSS COMPARATIVE BENCHMARKS FOR UG AND MASTERS DISSERTATIONS It is useful for you to understand Newcastle Business School benchmarks in relation to Masters Dissertations compared to UG Dissertations. The respective benchmarks are detailed below. The following table illustrates the major benchmarks against which undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations are assessed. Of course, either set of students may exceed the benchmarks for their level of work but, while such an outcome may be desirable, it is not a pre-requisite for the achievement of a good mark. Students can achieve a good mark by meeting the benchmarks for their level. Benchmark Dissertation subject matter Research objectives Research philosophy and methodological choices Undergraduate requirement A topic in business, management or economics (including named / specialist degrees). Clearly defined objectives relating to the topic and based upon the literature in the field. Not required. Postgraduate requirement A topic in business, management or economics (including named / specialist degrees). Clearly defined objectives relating to the topic and based upon the literature in the field. Must demonstrate an awareness of research philosophy at a broad level (e.g. positivism versus interpretivism) and select a justifiable and appropriate epistemological approach. The research methodology such be consistent with the philosophical stance and should be appropriate and justifiable considering the research objectives. Application of relevant theory to the data gathered to gain understanding of the value. Must demonstrate an awareness of different research strategies (e.g. survey, case study etc.) and must justify, explain, select and recognise the limitations of the strategy chosen. Must demonstrate an awareness of different research methods (quantitative and / or qualitative) and justify, explain, select and recognise the limitations of appropriate research methods for the dissertation topic which fit with the philosophy, methodology and strategy of the dissertation. Must explain the practical details of the conduct of the research and recognise limitations. Primary research may or may not be conducted. Students may undertake primary research (quantitative or qualitative etc.) or they will need to undertake some re-analysis of existing material (e.g. quantitative financial data, budgets, trade statistics, or qualitative minutes of meetings, used of diaries and other archival materials etc.) Ethical issues and compliance with University / School Guidelines need to be addressed.

Selection and Application of relevant theory to the data justification of gathered to gain understanding of the appropriate Research value. methods Must demonstrate an awareness of different research strategies (e.g. survey, case study etc.) and must justify, explain, select and recognise the limitations of the strategy chosen. Must demonstrate an awareness of different research methods (quantitative and / or qualitative) and justify, explain, select and recognise the limitations of appropriate research methods for the dissertation topic. Must explain the practical details of the conduct of the research and recognise limitations. Primary research may or may not be conducted. Students may undertake primary research (quantitative or qualitative etc.) or they will need to undertake some re-analysis of existing material (e.g. quantitative financial data, budgets, trade statistics, or qualitative minutes of meetings, use of diaries and other archival materials etc.)

Ethical issues and compliance with University / School Guidelines need to be addressed.

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Benchmark Literature review

Undergraduate requirement Discussion of relevant literature. A critical review involving the discussion of relevant theories, identifying the significant themes and comparing and contrasting of different perspectives. Explanation of role of the literature in the dissertation in broad terms by linkage to the research methods.

Postgraduate requirement Discussion of relevant literature, Critical review involving the in-depth discussion of relevant theories, identifying the significant themes and comparing and contrasting the different perspectives to a high level. Detailed explanation of role of the literature in the dissertation, for example by deriving statistical hypotheses to be tested or by generating interview schedules. Evidence of knowledge of current research, predominantly journals.

References

An adequate range and number of journal articles and books are to be used / cited. All may not be current. APA method of referencing

Referencing

APA method of referencing Discussion of the data in relation to the theories. Displays a mastery of the subject matter and related theory. Use of appropriate quantitative/qualitative analysis techniques. For quantitative studies this will include descriptive statistics and statistical testing of hypotheses derived from the research objectives. For qualitative studies, analysis should be achieved by applying a justifiable qualitative technique (e.g. thematic analysis, coding, and content analysis). Recognition of limitations.

Analysis and Discussion of the data in relation to the discussion of findings theories. Displays competence in the subject matter and related theory. Use of appropriate quantitative/qualitative analysis techniques. For quantitative studies this will include descriptive statistics and limited analysis of potential links between variables (using correlation, or a chi-squared test). For qualitative studies, a description of the findings and a review of the process adopted. Findings to be compared between respondents and with the literature review. Recognition of limitations. Conclusions and Recommendations Conclusions are drawn from the analysis and supported by the data. Conclusions are related to relevant prior research. Conclusions relate back to objectives (in broad terms). Suggestions for further research.

Conclusions are drawn from the analysis and supported by the data. Conclusions are related to relevant prior research. Conclusions include a detailed discussion of whether the research objectives have been met. Conclusions raise further questions for investigation and suggestions for further research.

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APPENDIX B Template for Cover sheet/title page

Note: This information must fit within the outline shown so that it will be visible through the window in the front cover.

TEMPLATE COPY OF THIS PAGE CAN BE FOUND ON THE DISSERTATION BLACKBOARD / eLP SITE

Please ensure your family name is in BLOCK CAPITALS

Margins: Top 102mm / 4 Left 70mm / 2 Right 51mm / 2

NAME: STUDENT ID: PROGRAMME: SUPERVISOR: TITLE: DATE:

Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the Masters Degree in

[Insert name of programme] Newcastle Business School at the University of Northumbria at Newcastle

Please ensure that you prepare this title-page carefully, the information has to fit inside the window of the cover sheets provided

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APPENDIX C Declaration page

DECLARATIONS I declare the following:

(1)

that the material contained in this dissertation is the end result of my own work and that due acknowledgement has been given in the bibliography and references to ALL sources be they printed, electronic or personal. the Word Count of this Dissertation is ......................................... that unless this dissertation has been confirmed as confidential, I agree to an entire electronic copy or sections of the dissertation to being placed on the e-Learning Portal, if deemed appropriate, to allow future students the opportunity to see examples of past dissertations. I understand that if displayed on the e-Learning Portal it would be made available for no longer than five years and those students would be able to print off copies or download. The authorship would remain anonymous. I agree to my dissertation being submitted to a plagiarism detection service, where it will be stored in a database and compared against work submitted from this or any other School or from other institutions using the service. In the event of the service detecting a high degree of similarity between content within the service this will be reported back to my supervisor and second marker, who may decide to undertake further investigation that may ultimately lead to disciplinary actions, should instances of plagiarism be detected. I have read the Northumbria/Newcastle Business School Policy Statement on Ethics in Research and Consultancy as detailed in The Newcastle Business School Masters Dissertation Guidelines for 20122013 and I declare that ethical issues have been considered, evaluated and appropriately addressed in this research.

(2)
(3)

(4)

(5)

SIGNED*: _________________________________________ DATE: ____________________________________________ *Please remember to sign this declaration and include it before submitting your dissertation for binding.

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APPENDIX D Example of an Abstract

Abstract Increasing speed of globalization puts pressure on companies conducting international business. Therefore, multinational companies (MNCs) need managers with an enhanced understanding of international business and an improved coordination and configuration of HQs and subsidiaries. Expatriate assignments are critical for developing international managers and penetrating critical capabilities throughout global dispersed companies. But expatriate failure and repatriate turnover rates reveal severe adjustment difficulties during the assignment and after return. Nevertheless, to meet demands out of globalization and reach objectives of foreign assignments, companies need to support expatriates succeeding overseas and especially retaining them after they come home. To investigate repatriation practice this dissertation uses a case study approach. The aims are to explore repatriates experiences and business practices at X plc. By conducting face-to-face interviews, six repatriates were interviewed about their pre-departure, overseas and especially their experiences after return. Additionally, they were asked about their perception of support they received by the company and their recommendations about what should be improved at the X plc. The responses were content-analysed to search for patterns among the answers. If problems for repatriates are widely similar, support practices can be standardised whereas individual difficulties support personally-tailored programmes. With the responses, the repatriates recommendations and the existing literature several conclusions could be drawn. And although this project is focused on repatriation it does not only provide recommendations for repatriation but also for expatriation and therefore covers the whole transition cycle management at X plc.

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Appendix E Example Table of Contents

Table of Contents
1. 2. 3.

Introduction ..............................................................................................................................1 Literature review .......................................................................................................................5 Methodology ...........................................................................................................................16 3.1. Positivism vs. phenomenology ...........................................................................................16 3.2 Qualitative or quantitative research and data gathering .....................................................17 3.3 Data analysis ......................................................................................................................18 3.4 The research instrument .....................................................................................................18

4. 5

The case X plc ..........................................................................................................................24 Results .....................................................................................................................................25 5.1 Sample characteristics .......................................................................................................25 5.2 Expatriation and overseas adjustment ................................................................................28 5.3 Experiences after return .....................................................................................................36 5.3.1 Work life ...................................................................................................................36 5.3.2 Social life ..................................................................................................................40 5.3.3 Company support .....................................................................................................46 5.3.4 Individual coping strategies .....................................................................................49 5.4 Recommendations ..............................................................................................................51 5.4.1 Expatriation recommendations ................................................................................52 5.4.2 Repatriation recommendations ................................................................................54

Limitations and conclusion .......................................................................................................55

References ......................................................................................................................................56 Appendix 1: Reflective Learning Statement ....................................................................................68 Appendix 2: The structure of the X plc Group .................................................................................69 Appendix 3: Content sheet ..............................................................................................................70 Appendix 4: Interview 1 ..................................................................................................................76 Appendix 5: Interview 2 ...................................................................................................................84 Appendix 6: Interview 3 ...................................................................................................................96 Appendix 7: Interview 4 .................................................................................................................112 Appendix 8: Interview 5 .................................................................................................................119 Appendix 9: Interview 6 .................................................................................................................142

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APPENDIX F Example of a Glossary

GLOSSARY Abbreviations used in the text AMEX = American Stock Exchange CME = Chicago Mercantile Exchange DJIA = Dow Jones Industrial Average EMH = Efficient Market Hypothesis FTSE = Financial Times Stock Exchange NASDAQ = National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System NMS = National Market System NYSE = New York Stock Exchange S&P = Standard and Poor Stock Index

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APPENDIX G ETHICS IN RESEARCH Introduction

The University has an Ethics in Research and Consultancy Policy Statement which can be found at http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/policies/) and this is supported by the Research Ethics and Governance Handbook and a series of pro-formas and exemplars in the School Ethics Pages for NBS http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/school_ethics_pages/. It is your responsibility as a student to abide by the policy. Some students may be members of a professional body (e.g. CIPD, CIM). Most professional bodies have a code of conduct which their members are required to adhere to. While this is usually related to professional conduct in a job situation, a breach of the code could arise from unethical research. Again, it the responsibility of the individual student to check and adhere to their own professional body requirements. This document first gives some guidelines in relation to research ethics. These do not supersede the Ethics Policy but seek to interpret it for the most likely research ethics issues that postgraduate students are likely to come across. The guidelines, however, cannot be comprehensive and in instances where a particular piece of research raises issues beyond the scope of these guidelines there are alternative mechanisms for gaining advice which are covered below in the Procedures section. Second, this document sets down the procedures in relation to ethics in research that should be followed in carrying out the postgraduate project. Human participants The most likely situation in which research ethics becomes an issue is where the research involves human participants. In this situation the issue of informed consent becomes central. Human participants can engage in research in a number of ways: By responding to questionnaires. Here consent can be assumed if the participant responds, but the ethical issues that need to be covered are: i. A clear statement should be made at the beginning of the questionnaire concerning the purpose of the research, how the data will be used, and whether anonymity (not revealing the identity of the individual) and confidentiality (not passing on the data collected) will be ensured (which they normally should); ii. It should be made clear that participants are not obliged to answer any question that they do not wish to; iii. Although following up non-respondents is good practice, no coercion should be applied and no inducements offered beyond a copy of the results; iv. It is good practice to estimate the time that it will normally take to complete the questionnaire. By taking part in an interview or focus group. In these cases individual consent should be gained through the Informed Consent Form available in Appendix G(iv). Such agreement must be based on the following so that consent is informed: i. A clear statement should be made when asking someone to participate in an interview or focus group concerning the purpose of the research, the nature of the questions or activity, how the data will be used, and whether anonymity and confidentiality will be ensured (which they normally should). Anonymity and confidentiality are more difficult with focus groups (though not necessarily in the writing-up of the research) so the likely composition of the focus group should be made clear; It should be made clear that participants are not obliged to answer any question that they do not wish to and may terminate the interview or leave the focus group at any time; No coercion should be applied and no inducements offered beyond a copy of the results; Where a tape recorder is to be used, participants should be assured of the opportunity to record over any responses or parts of the activity; Page | 29

ii. iii. iv.

v. vi.

It should be made clear whether participants will be offered transcripts of the interview or focus group activity (which they normally should), in order to correct any errors; It is good practice to estimate the time that it will normally take to complete the interview or focus group activity.

The interview or focus group activity should then be conducted in line with the basis on which consent is given. Any unforeseen ethical issues which arise during the data collection should be considered immediately and appropriate action taken to handle or mitigate these issues. By being observed. Here consent can be assumed only if the participant has agreed through the Informed Consent Form available in Appendix G(iv). Such agreement should be based on the following so that consent is informed: i. A clear statement (in writing if it is sufficiently complex) should be made when asking someone to participate in an observation concerning the purpose of the research, the nature of the activities that are to be observed, who else might be observed at the same time, how the data will be used, and whether anonymity (not revealing the identity of the individual) and confidentiality (not passing on the data collected) will be ensured (which they normally should). Anonymity and confidentiality are more difficult where group observation is involved (though not necessarily in the writing-up of the research) so the likely composition of the group should be made clear; It should be made clear that participants may terminate the observation at any time; No coercion should be applied and no inducements offered beyond a copy of the results; It is good practice to estimate the time that it will normally take to complete the observation activity.

ii. iii. iv.

The observation activity should then be conducted in line with the basis on which consent is given. Any unforeseen ethical issues which arise during the data collection should be considered immediately and appropriate action taken to handle or mitigate these issues.

Required permissions
All primary research plans must be agreed with your supervisor. In some cases however permission will also be required from the School Research Ethics Committee. This includes all cases in which: Example A female student planned a piece of research into attitudes towards the use of erotic advertising, comparing French adverts with equivalent ones in the U.K. The first issue was obtaining examples of advertising and although many of these came from magazines, some were taken from a web-site. This raised the issue of internet access to potentially pornographic sites, which had to be conducted by the student without using University equipment. The empirical work then involved focus groups of male and female French and U.K. students being asked to record and then discuss their reactions to the various advertisements. This required careful planning to ensure that the individuals were informed of the nature of the adverts in case anyone found them offensive. Consent was based on a verbal description of the research and verbal consent. With hindsight, a written statement of the proposed research would have been a better way of handling informed consent. The research also raised a separate issue of the safety of researchers. Ensuring that a flat-mate was in when the focus groups were conducted provided a degree of protection in the event of anyone getting the wrong idea about the intentions of the researcher! Research subjects are under 18 years old or otherwise vulnerable (see Research Ethics and Governance Handbook for details) Subjects are to be observed without their written consent Sensitive personal questions or issues form part of the research The research involves identifiable risk for the researcher and / or subjects

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Research in organisations Where research involves gaining access to an organisation (rather than just to individuals who work in organisations) the issues related to questionnaires, interviews, focus groups or observation may be pertinent if any of these methods are to be used inside the organisation with individual participants. Each participants informed consent should then be obtained as outlined above. However, there is one additional issue that need to be covered. Gaining access. In a similar way to gaining the informed consent of individuals, gaining access to an organisation requires their informed consent. This requires the organisation to agree using the Research Organisational Consent Form (in Appendix G(iii)) Such agreement should be based on the following: i. A clear statement should be made concerning the purpose of the research, the nature of the activities that are to be conducted, how the data will be used, and whether anonymity (not revealing the identity of any individuals involved in the research) and confidentiality (not passing on the data collected) will be ensured (which they normally should); ii. It should be made clear whether the identity of the organisation is to be revealed in the project (which it normally should), and to respect the right of the organisation to demand anonymity if it so desires; iii. It should be made clear that the organisation may terminate any part or all of the research at any time; iv. No coercion should be applied and no inducements offered beyond a copy of the results; v. It is good practice to estimate the time and resource requirements that the research will take. In making such statements there should be no exaggeration of the benefits of the research to the organisation. The research should then be conducted in line with the basis on which consent is given. Any unforeseen ethical issues which arise during the data collection should be considered immediately and appropriate action taken to handle or mitigate these issues. Writing-up the research Ethical issues can also arise in writing up the research. These fall into three categories. Accurate reporting. In writing up the research there should be no mis-reporting or selectivity. The duty of the researcher is to conduct the analysis accurately and report the data and findings honestly and accurately. Inadvertent infringement of anonymity and confidentiality. Having normally guaranteed anonymity and confidentiality, it is important that such agreement is adhered to, to ensure there is no inadvertent revealing of participants identity. Consideration if the findings may disadvantage participants, others or the organisation. If the outcome of the research is such as to disadvantage or even harm someone, particular attention needs to be given to the way the research is written up and its dissemination. Example In a series of interviews only one female participant was involved. Writing she said would reveal her identity, but using the impersonal Participant A said preserves anonymity. A piece of research indicated that a particular person was responsible for resisting change. Another revealed that someones management style was strongly criticised by subordinates. The impact of reporting this could be quite serious for those individuals. While honesty in reporting is required, anticipating the impact of such findings and devising a mechanism for handling them (e.g. informing the individual before the results are generally available) is good practice.

Data collection, storage and disposal It is important that all of the data you collect is stored safely and disposed of appropriately at the end of the study. Our practice at Newcastle Business School is governed by the Data Protection Act (1988). This requires personal data to be used and stored appropriately.

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You should therefore: 1 Ensure that the names of your research subjects (and organisations) are not recorded alongside any transcript or other record of the data they have given you. This will require you to use codes to identify you research subjects. Your record of actual names and codes needs to be kept separate from the data they provide and held securely (e.g. in a locked desk or cabinet). Protect your password and encrypt electronic data wherever this is possible, especially if using portable devices. Make a plan to either destroy your data safely after your research has been completed and a mark awarded OR provide a good reasons why the data will not be destroyed (e.g. if it will be used in future studies). Ensure that you include a section on Ethical compliance (including data storage and disposal) in your Methodology Chapter.

2 3

Intellectual property rights / ownership of results The intellectual property rights and ownership of the results of your research belong to the University and must be handed over if required. The procedures for complying with the Ethics Policy (and any requirements from professional bodies that may apply), are as follows: i. ii. iii. Read the Ethics Policy and consider the use of forms and advice in Appendix G(i), the guidelines given above and any professional body requirements; Give consideration in the design of the research as to whether ethical issues do apply and if so how to deal with them; Submit the Student Research Ethical Issues Form (Appendix G(ii)) and supporting documentation (e.g. draft consent forms) to your Supervisor. Your supervisor may give consent to proceed or ask you to amend your plans or (in the case of sensitive ethical issues) will refer your form to the School Research Ethics Committee; Conduct the research according to your approved Student Ethical Issues Form, obtaining Informed Consent (Appendix G(iv)) and Organisation Consent (Appendix G(iii)) where appropriate; In the write-up of the research include a section in the research methods section which details the ethical issues that arose and how these were handled. (If there were no ethical issues because of the nature of the research, it is necessary only to state that this was the case, with a very brief justification.); Also give consideration in the write-up to the issues identified in the guidelines (accuracy, possible infringement of anonymity and confidentiality, and the disadvantaging of people or organisations) and ensure that these are handled appropriately; Include a declaration in the project that states: I have read the University Policy Statement on Ethics in Research and Consultancy and I declare that ethical issues have been considered and taken into account in this research. This statement should be signed.

iv.

v.

vi.

vii.

If, as a result of the conduct of the research, and despite the design, you believe there may have been a breach of the ethics policy, or that ethical issues have arisen, particularly in relation to the disadvantaging of individuals or organisations, you should refer the matter to your supervisor. This is not a question of whether some penalty should be imposed, but of NBS and the University wishing to be informed so that it can take action to mitigate any harm.

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Appendix G(i) Research Ethics in Postgraduate projects ETHICS IN RESEARCH - POLICY STATEMENT 1. 1.1 Introduction The purpose of this document is to clarify the obligations on staff and students who undertake research activity, and to provide a framework for their consideration at Northumbria University. Detailed guidance is available in the Universitys Research Ethics and Governance Handbook: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/policies/ The University's mission is to serve our learning communities by delivering internationally recognised and professionally relevant learning, research and enterprise. Commensurate with this mission is a commitment to ethical standards in academic life. Broadly defined, this means a systematic regard for the rights and interests of others in the full range of professional relationships and endeavours that characterise academic life. All research is subject to ethical considerations concerning purpose, source of funding, methods to be deployed and wider value and impact. It is important that risks in carrying out a piece of research are clearly articulated and weighed against the potential value of it so that all those involved proceed with informed consent. The mechanisms for approving research activity are detailed below and in the Research Ethics and Governance Handbook and all staff are required to be compliant with this policy to ensure that the wellbeing of all involved in research is protected. The policy is intended for all those engaged in research activity as they are embodied in different disciplines. It is designed primarily for academic staff, including those on research contracts, but is also relevant to research degree students, taught postgraduate and undergraduate students engaged in projects. The policy is built upon ethical and good practice guidelines issued by Research Councils, professional bodies, subject associations and external ethics committees. Ethical Principles and Dilemmas It is not possible to define absolutely the boundaries of ethical principles, practice and problems. What is advocated is a fundamental engagement with the ethical principles and dilemmas detailed below as an essential part of the research process in whatever discipline. Regardless of the nature of their work, staff and students who undertake research activity at Northumbria are obliged to take into account the wider direct and indirect anticipated consequences of their work. The principles of beneficence and non-maleficence are fundamental to all research activity. Beneficence is the requirement to promote the interests and well being of others. It is the ethical principle of doing good in the widest sense. Non-maleficence is the principle of not doing harm. Both principles must be applied to all entities directly or indirectly affected by the research. In practice these principles frequently conflict, for example as in animal versus human welfare. Ethical conduct in research demands respect for the rights of others who are directly or indirectly affected by the work. In relation to human participants, both their physical and personal autonomy should be respected. Their participation in the research should be on the basis of fully informed consent, and their right to confidentiality, according to prevailing standards, should be guaranteed. The respect for rights to confidentiality is essential irrespective of any characteristic of the research environment or participants and at all stages of the research process. Further guidance is available in the University Research Ethics and Governance Handbook. Respect for equality and diversity in the management, design and conduct of research activity is essential to maintaining good academic practice.

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5 2. 2.1

2.2

2.3

2.4

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2.5

Justice is the ethical principle of fair treatment of others, which requires researchers to weigh up and make judgements about competing claims and interests of those directly or indirectly involved in the research, regardless of the vested interests of researchers. Researchers should address competing interests at every stage of the research, including the decision of whether it should be carried out in the first place. Researchers should consider the moral justification for differential treatment of research subjects, including non-human entities. For example, potential risks to the future should be weighed against technological progress in the present. Ethical principles will inevitably conflict, resulting in the requirement on the researchers to balance qualitatively different values. In such cases, researchers are obliged to make difficult judgements that cannot be derived from first principles, and should be prepared to draw upon disinterested advice. Where such a conflict cannot be resolved at subject level, or by advice to an external ethics committee or professional bodies guidelines, the matter should be referred to the University Ethics Committee. In all instances, the University strives to promote a high standard of professional conduct amongst staff and students. Examples of ethical issues in research include: Academic subjects vary widely in the range and significance of the ethical problems that arise in their work. Many academic subjects do not involve the direct use of human participants or animals. Some can confine their consideration of ethics in research to broadbased questions concerning its purpose and value and its indirect effects. Even here, the ethical/legal issues will be considerable. Where human subjects are involved in research, approval may be required from external bodies (such as NHS Research Ethics Committees). In other cases, routine use of human subjects in research (be they peers on taught courses, people in the community or in organisations) occurs without external vetting. This requires a careful and self-reflective approach to the ethical problems that might arise. For example, in surveys, interviews and experiments, researchers must consider the potential of placing human subjects/organisations at risk from criminal or civil liability, damage to their social standing and to their emotional well being. It is essential that the conduct of research takes into consideration issues such as the health and safety of staff and research participants (undertaking risk assessments as appropriate); that research data is stored in a way that is compliant with the Data Protection Act (1989); that there are systems for the identification and management of academic misconduct; that the Human Tissue Act (2004) is fulfilled; and that intellectual property is appropriately protected.

2.6

2.7

3. 3.1

University Framework for Considering Ethics in Research Each member of staff, (and when appropriate students involved in research) is responsible for abiding by the Universitys Policy on Ethics in Research and Consultancy. Advice should be sought, in the first instance, from the Dean of School. Northumbria's framework for the consideration of ethical issues in research comprises: (a) formal consideration of ethical issues in research at the discipline level; (b) monitoring at the level of the School Research Committee; and (c) institutional oversight. It is the responsibility of every Dean of School to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to ethical issues arising in and from research activity for staff and students in all disciplines within the School. The Dean of School will exercise this responsibility either through the School Research Committee or by establishing an ethics sub-committee or consultative group with the following brief: to ensure good practice and a climate of ongoing reflection with regard to ethical issues in research and consultancy;

3.2

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to support academic staff and students in the consideration of ethical issues; to ensure good practice by the scrutiny of all research and consultancy activity at critical points (which will be defined locally in accordance with the nature of the research activity and the discipline and as outlined by professional bodies). 3.3 Each school research committee or ethics sub-committee will: include academic staff with a significant track record in research and teaching; meet as frequently as required, but at least three times per year, and maintain appropriate records of the business conducted; will be aware of the legislation and the requirements it places on the University; undertake an annual audit to ensure that appropriate ethical standards are maintained. 3.4 The Dean of School (working with the Associate Dean for Research) is responsible for assuring the University Ethics Committee that the School Research Committee or Ethics Sub-group/Consultative Groups are operating effectively. The Dean of School will submit an annual report to the University Ethics Committee at the end of each academic year in a prescribed format to provide: (a) (b) (c) (d) 3.5 3.6 3.7 a brief statement of the local arrangements for consideration of ethical issues in research; a list of those activities where ethical consideration has been required; and an indication of the problems which have been referred directly to another internal or external committee for their resolution. maintain records of all research projects (including dissertations) which involve ethical issues.

The Dean of School can refer to the University Ethics Committee any matters which cannot be satisfactorily resolved at School level. The University Ethics Committee will submit the reports to the Research Committee at the beginning of each academic year. The University Ethics Committee is established as a sub-committee of the Research Committee with the following terms of reference: to provide written Guidelines on ethical issues in research, for use by staff and students of the University; to take a University overview of the Ethics Policy implementation and to recommend policy changes; to advise on any issues of an ethical nature referred to it by the Deans of the Schools, and To receive relevant papers/information from external bodies for consideration.

3.8

Membership of the University Ethics Committee will comprise senior academic staff with a proven track record in research appointed by School Research Committees. The Committee will also have powers of co-option, to allow appropriate consultation with relevant experts. The University Ethics Committee will have three statutory meetings each year, but will also be convened as other business requires.

3.9

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Appendix G(ii)

Newcastle Business School Student Research Ethical Issues Form

Student Name: Portfolio Area: Title of Research Project: Start Date of Research Project: Comments Brief description of the proposed research methods including, in particular, whether human subjects will be involved and how

Ethical issues that may arise (if none, state None and give reasons)

How will the ethical issues be addressed? (if none state n/a)

Has informed consent of research participants been considered? If appropriate, has an informed consent form been completed? Has organisational consent been considered? If appropriate, has an organisational consent form been completed? Please tick to confirm acceptance that it is your responsibility to store and destroy the data appropriately.

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Student Signature (indicating that the research will be conducted in conformity with the above and agreeing that any significant change in the research project will be notified and a further Ethical Issues Form submitted). Date: Student Signature:

Supervisor: I confirm that I have read this form and I believe the proposed research will not breach University policies. Date: Signature:.

Please Note: The appropriate completion of this form is a critical component of the University Policy on Ethical Issues in Research and Consultancy. If further advice is required, please contact the School Ethics Sub Committee through the Academic Support Office in the first instance.

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Appendix G(iii) Organisational Consent Form

RESEARCH ORGANISATION INFORMED CONSENT FORM Newcastle Business School University of Northumbria Completion of this form is required whenever research is being undertaken by NBS staff or students within any organisation. This applies to research that is carried out on the premises, or is about an organisation, or members of that organisation or its customers, as specifically targeted as subjects of research. The researcher must supply an explanation to inform the organisation of the purpose of the study, who is carrying out the study, and who will eventually have access to the results. In particular issues of anonymity and avenues of dissemination and publications of the findings should be brought to the organisations attention. Researchers Name:____________________________________________ Student ID No. (if applicable):_____________________________________ Researchers Statement:

Any organisation manager or representative who is empowered to give consent may do so here: Name: ________________________________________________________ Position/Title: __________________________________________________ Organisation Name: _____________________________________________ Location: ______________________________________________________ Anonymity must be offered to the organisation if it does not wish to be identified in the research report. Confidentiality is more complex and cannot extend to the markers of student work or the reviewers of staff work, but can apply to the published outcomes. If confidentiality is required, what form applies? [ ] No confidentiality required [ ] Masking of organisation name in research report [ ] No publication of the research results without specific organisational consent Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________ This form can be signed via email if the accompanying email is attached with the signers personal email address included. The form cannot be completed by phone, rather should be handled via post.

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Appendix G(iv) Informed Consent Form for Research Participants

Newcastle Business School Informed Consent Form for research participants Title of Study Person(s) conducting the research Programme of study Address of the researcher for correspondence

Telephone E-mail Description of the broad nature of the research

Description of the involvement expected of participants including the broad nature of questions to be answered or events to be observed or activities to be undertaken, and the expected time commitment

Information obtained in this study, including this consent form, will be kept strictly confidential (i.e. will not be passed to others) and anonymous (i.e. individuals and organisations will not be identified unless this is expressly excluded in the details given above). Data obtained through this research may be reproduced and published in a variety of forms and for a variety of audiences related to the broad nature of the research detailed above. It will not be used for purposes other than those outlined above without your permission. Participation is entirely voluntary and participants may withdraw at any time. By signing this consent form, you are indicating that you fully understand the above information and agree to participate in this study on the basis of the above information. Participants signature Students signature Date Date

Please keep one copy of this form for your own records.

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Appendix G(v) - Checklist for Newcastle Business School Students Designing & Conducting Primary Research As the researcher YOU are responsible for abiding by the University Ethics Policy
The University Ethics Policy is based on promoting the interests and well being of others - the ethical principle of doing good in the widest sense and the principle of not doing harm. Both principles must be applied to all entities directly or indirectly affected by the research. As the researcher you can agree anonymity for research participants in the data analysis and writing up and for the organisation in terms of using a pseudonym however, all work completed for University programmes is owned by the University and therefore confidential projects / dissertations should be the exception and agreed with the supervisor in advance. Gaining informed consent from the organisation and individuals is important in terms of the research. There are details to support you in designing and conducting primary research within the ethical framework, (these are available on Blackboard) these provide details on questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, organisational access, informed consent etc. A checklist to enable compliance with the University Ethics Policy and the Policy for Informed Consent in your research is as follows: Action Completed Please read as appropriate, the University: Ethics Policy: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/ Policy for Informed Consent: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/school_ethics_pages/ Data Protection Guide: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/policies/?view=Standard Consider ethical issues in your design of the research and if there are issues, provide details on how you have dealt with them. Remember that ethical issues arise in any primary research involving people Discuss this with your lecturer/supervisor Conduct the research in such a way that the Ethics Policy and the Policy for Informed Consent are adhered to In the research methodology/methods section or chapter include: details of the ethical issues that arose and how these were handled. (If there were no ethical issues because of the nature of the research, it is necessary only to state that this was the case, with a very brief justification) In the write up of the data be clear about accuracy when presenting the data, aware of the possible infringement of anonymity and confidentiality, the disadvantaging of people or organisations and take steps to avoid these Include a declaration in the work that states: I have read the University Policy Statement on Ethics in Research and Consultancy and the Policy for Informed Consent in Research and Consultancy and I declare that ethical issues have been considered and taken into account in this research. This statement should be signed and dated.

NB. Students should note that, in marking the work, staff are required to report on whether the research raised any ethical issues and whether they were handled appropriately.

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If, having discussed ethical issues with your lecturer/supervisor, you or the lecturer/supervisor are still unsure whether you have correctly identified the ethical issues or that the design of your research will adequately take them into account, you should prepare a written statement of the issues and ask your lecturer/supervisor to refer the matter to the NBS School Ethics Sub-Committee (SESC). SESC will then provide further guidance, either itself or by reference to the University Ethics Committee.

Staff Checklist of Ethical Issues (when considering the review and assessment of work containing primary research) The signed statement is included in the work; I have read the University Policy Statement on Ethics in Research and Consultancy and the Policy for Informed Consent in Research and Consultancy and I declare that ethical issues have been considered and taken into account in this research. This statement should be signed and dated The student has considered Informed Consent Organisational and Individual where appropriate (verbal, written or implied) The student has considered anonymity and any issues of organisational confidentiality (where appropriate) in research design and writing up The research does not involve children or vulnerable adults, unless with prior approval and appropriate CRB checks

Please Tick

The research is not NHS based (unless prior approval has been sought through the School Ethics Sub Committee/NHS)
The student has accurately reported findings based on issues above Any Comments:

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You are the researcher; (staff/student) is your research:

Completely based on secondary data which has been previously published, is desk based and does not involve people in data collection?

NO

Does your research involve engagement with people in primary data collection? e.g. interview, focus group, questionnaire etc

YES YES
You should not involve children or vulnerable adults in your research (other than authorised exceptions with CRB checks) If researching in an NHS context, please discuss ethical approval with a representative from your workplace and gain advice from your supervisor /School Ethics Sub Committee before proceeding Read the policy on informed consent: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/school_ethics_pages/ and gain consent from the organisation and people involved. Use implied, verbal or written consent and complete, where appropriate, an informed consent form (available on Blackboard) Read guidelines and address anonymity /confidentiality (where appropriate) in your research design and writing up: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/ Read guidelines on accurate reporting (NBS guidelines) Read guidelines on data protection: http://www.northumbria.ac.uk/researchandconsultancy/sa/ethgov/policies/ Address these ethical issues in the work

There are not normally ethical issues to address. However you should remain ethically aware. Please ensure that you have not breached plagiarism or copyright regulations and have adequately referenced your material

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APPENDIX H Data Protection Introduction Whenever research involves the processing of personal information relating to living individuals, students are required to ensure that it is done so in accordance with the Data Protection Act (DPA), which sets out a number of principles for processing personal information. This document provides guidance and outlines the requirements to ensure students follow best practice when undertaking research as part of their studies. Definitions Data Subject the individual to whom the data relates. Processing the collection, storage, use, retention and disclosure of personal data of living people. Personal Data any information that affects a persons privacy such as: Information which is biographical in a significant sense Individuals as its focus rather than some other person or some transaction or event Sensitive personal data is any information that affects a persons safety such as: racial or ethnic origin political opinions religious beliefs physical or mental health sexual life commission of offences or alleged offences Students should only conduct research involving sensitive personal data where they have obtained the permission of their guidance tutor. What are the rules I need to follow? Researchers must make sure that personal data is only recorded and processed: with the express permission of the individual to which it relates for the purposes for which the person gave their permission and retained for as long as necessary to execute that purpose These requirements are set out in the 8 Principals of the DPA. So long as you comply with these 8 principles, you should be compliant with the DPA.
1.

2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

Personal data shall be processed fairly and lawfully. Individuals should be clearly informed of exactly what the information will be used for and asked to sign a declaration that they are happy for you to process their information. This can be achieved using a consent form. Personal data shall be obtained for the specific purpose of completing your research and not processed for any other reason. Personal data shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive. This means you should only ask for information relevant to completing the research at hand. Do not ask for more information than is necessary. Only ask for sensitive data if it is required to complete your research. Personal data shall be accurate and kept up-to-date. This principle will only apply to long-term research where there is a requirement for ongoing use of personal data. Personal data shall not be kept longer than necessary. Make sure that any personal data is disposed of when you complete your project. Personal data shall be processed in accordance with the rights of individuals under the Act. Anyone who supplies you with personal information has the right to withdraw consent to process at any time. If someone asks you not to process their information make sure you stop immediately.

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7.

8.

Appropriate measures will be taken to make sure that personal data is kept secure, especially sensitive personal data. Do not leave work lying around for people to see. If you have work on data sticks or laptops, use a password to protect them where possible. If you can, store it on your University network drive instead of a computer at home. Be careful if you are carrying personal information around. Personal data shall not be transferred outside the European Economic Area unless you have permission to do so and adequate security measures are in place. Do not publish information on websites unless you have permission.

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APPENDIX I Reflective Learning Statement (to be included as the first Appendix in your Dissertation) Please note the maximum number of words for each section (detailed below). The words in your Reflective Learning Statement are addition to your 15,000 word limit for your dissertation. The Reflective Learning Statement is to be structured around the six PG Goals. By the time you have completed your Masters Programme you should have achieved your Programme Postgraduate Goals. GOAL 1: BE INDEPENDENT, REFLECTIVE CRITICAL THINKERS (200 words maximum) Suggestion - Think about how you analysed yourself in your Developing Self Assignment. GOAL 2: BE CULTURALLY AND ETHICALLY AWARE (200 words maximum) Suggestion - Think about how you worked in your teams / group work for the Business Game and how you considered ethical issues in your dissertation. GOAL 3: HAVE DEVELOPED LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT CAPABILITY (200 words maximum) Suggestion - Think about how you worked on the Residential Weekend and on the Business Game. GOAL 4: HAVE DEVELOPED AND APPLIED KNOWLEDGE OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT THEORY (200 words maximum) Suggestion - Think about how you have used your year of study for understanding and applying theory; for example in your literature review of your dissertation. GOAL 5: HAVE DEVELOPED A RANGE OF RESEARCH SKILLS AND PROJECT CAPABILITIES (200 words maximum) Suggestion - Think about how you have undertaken your research for your dissertation. GOAL 6: For specialist programmes ONLY SEE BELOW DEVELOPED SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF insert programme title (200 words maximum) MSc International Human Resource Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of International Human Resource Management MSc Global Financial Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Global Financial Management MSc Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management MSc Strategic Marketing Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Marketing MA Human Resource Management and Development Goal 6: Developed and critically applied Knowledge about the Theory and Practice of Human Resource Management and Development MBA Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a Post-Experience Perspective

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MSc Global Business Management Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a Global Perspective MSc Business with Programmes Goal 6: Developed Specialist Knowledge of Business and Management from a relevant Specialist Perspective Suggestion - Think about within your specialist subject why did you select the particular area for research for your dissertation.

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APPENDIX J - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

QUESTION Where can I see examples of previous Masters Dissertations, are they available in the University Library? ANSWER Masters Dissertations are not available in the Library. You will need to log onto the eLearning Portal for the Dissertation information: (UK Based students NX0422) located under: Dissertation Exemplars o Then you will need to click into the relevant subject/topic area folder (CV Based students NX0419) located under Dissertation Exemplars o Then you will need to click into the relevant subject/topic area folder Can I print my dissertation in colour? Yes, however it should be noted that colour printing is not compulsory. No. Only submit your working papers if you have received an email from the Dissertation Administration team requesting your working papers. However it should be noted that working papers/notes can be requested at any time during the marking process (and you will be provided with 1 weeks notice). If you consider your dissertation to be confidential, you must seek approval from your Dissertation Supervisor. Your Dissertation supervisor will then sign the relevant page in your Logbook. When you submit your Dissertation to the Postgraduate Office, you need to make the staff aware that the Dissertation is confidential, and you have the signature of approval from your Supervisor. The Office staff will then mark the dissertations with a yellow sticker to identify confidentiality. (Note: It should be noted that Confidentiality is regarded as an exceptional procedure). Yes, you must ensure that you sign the declarations page in both copies of your dissertation before submitting to the Postgraduate Office. No, students must submit their dissertation in hard copy only. If you are in your home country you may send your thermally bound dissertations (with the correct covers) by post to your Programme Administrator. It should be noted that the dissertations must be received by the due date. Notes: It is recommended that you send your Dissertation using recorded delivery or an equivalent method which requires a signature to prove delivery. You must remember to collect the Blue Masters Dissertation covers from the Postgraduate Office before you return home.

Do I need to supply my working papers/notes at the time of submission?

How can I make my dissertation confidential?

Do I need to sign the Declarations page before submission?

I am leaving the UK to finish my dissertation in my home country can I submit my dissertation electronically (via email) from my home country?

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QUESTION How do I get my Name, Programme, Supervisor etc to fit inside the window of the Blue Masters Dissertation Covers?

ANSWER You will need to log onto the eLearning Portal for the Dissertation information: (UK Based students NX0422) located under: Dissertation and Supervision Guidelines o Front Page Template / Declarations Template (CV Based students NX0419) located under Dissertation and Supervision Guidelines o Front Page Template / Declarations Template / Example of Reflective Learning Statement

Where do I obtain the Masters Dissertation Blue covers from? Do I need to put the standard Blue Masters Dissertation Covers on my Dissertation?

You will need to collect the Blue Masters Dissertation covers from the Postgraduate Office Reception Desk. Yes, all Masters Dissertations must be submitted with the standard Blue Masters Dissertation Covers. Failure to submit your Dissertation with the covers may result in marks being deducted. Yes, however it should be noted that the Postgraduate Office will take no responsibility if the dissertation is submitted to the Postgraduate Office after the submission deadline. Responsibility rests with the student who is named on the title page. It is not NBS policy to offer/recommend particular online survey websites. However, some NBS students do utilise online survey websites; some of which can be used for free for a limited period of time. You need to follow the instructions provided in these Guidelines (Appendix K). You need to read the relevant section of these Guidelines (Appendix K). Additional advice can be obtained from several sources: the Library Skills Plus website the Dissertation Administration Team your Supervisor

Can my friend submit my Dissertation for me?

Which Online Survey Websites do NBS recommend?

How do I submit my dissertation to Turnitin? How do I interpret the Turnitin Report?

I have a resit opportunity; do I need to submit my dissertation to Turnitin again?

No, students do not submit their resit dissertation to Turnitin; this is done by the Dissertation Administration team from the CD/USB electronic copy that is submitted with their dissertation. Note: This is due to the fact that the resit dissertation which would be submitted by the student would normally match the previous version. The Dissertation Administration team can manipulate the software to exclude the match to the previous version.

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APPENDIX K Turnitin Appendix K(i) - How to submit your Masters Dissertation to Turnitin
The following instructions cover the steps students follow to submit a paper to Turnitin and view the originality report. Adapted from Source: eLP Help Guide (Northumbria University 17.09.12) 1. Log on to the eLearning Portal and click on the link to the module where the Turnitn link has been posted NX0422 for UK-based students
Note: BNN01 = FT / BNN01 = PT

2012YL_NBX022BNN01: Dissertation Preparation and Research Methods

NX0419 for CV Partner Institutions

Note: BCV or FCV = PT Sept Start or Jan Start

2. Click on the link on the left hand side of the page to go to the content area where the tutor has posted the Turnitin link it will be called (ASSESSMENT).

3. Once in the Assessment section, click on the Turnitin folder

4. Locate the necessary Turnitin link and click the View/Complete link under the assignment title. NBS Dissertation submission: Revision 1 / Revision 2 / FINAL Note: under the FINAL submission you must upload the whole of your Masters Dissertation (including ALL references)

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5. The submission page opens. The option to submit a paper by file upload is selected and your name appears. Enter a submission title.

6. Click on Browse to locate the file then click Open. 7. Click upload. You see a message telling you that step 1 of 2 has been completed and that you will be directed to the next step in 3 seconds.

8. A preview of the document is presented. Make sure the correct file has been submitted. If not choose return to upload page and browse for the correct file. If correct click submit.

9. The submission process may take up to two minutes. You will see this message.

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10. A digital receipt is displayed. It includes the first page of your submitted document. Confirmation of receipt is also sent to you via email.

11. Click on go to portfolio. This brings you to the assignment inbox page where you can view the originality report if your tutor has given you permission to do so.

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Appendix K(ii) - How to view the originality report (student instructions)

1. Click on go to portfolio in the digital receipt or on the View/Complete link in the content area where you submitted your work. 2. Click on Show details.

3. The page expands to reveal the link to the originality report (if available). The link appears as a coloured square next to a percentage. The percentage indicates the amount of text in your document that matches the sources searched by Turnitin. This figure may include bibliographic and quoted material. Click on the percentage to open the originality report (see next page). The coloured square indicates the percentage of matching text found by Turnitin: blue (no matching text); green (024% matching text); yellow (25-49% matching text); orange (50-74% matching text); red (75-100% matching text). 4. If the link to the report appears greyed out initially (or if you see the word processing) this means that the reports has not generated. Right click on the web page and choose Refresh from the shortcut menu then click on Show details again. If the report is still unavailable, try again later.

Your tutor may not have given you permission to view the originality report. Some assignments dont allow you to view the report until the assignment Due Date. Although the report is usually generated straight away, it can take up to 24 hours when systems are busy. There is always a 24 hour delay for repeat submissions.

Students can view the originality reports under Revision 1 or Revision 2. The FINAL submission cannot be viewed by the student.

Adapted from Source: eLP Help Guide (Northumbria University 17.09.12)

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Turnitin Originality Report Document Viewer

Note: The coloured version of this diagram is available in the online copy of this handbook located on the eLearning Portal.

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