The chain of evidence practice for the academic-oriented project type of the agile literature review approach: a brief note

The chain of evidence (COE) practice for the academic-oriented project type of the agile literature review approach: a brief note

In order to develop clear line of reasoning in the dissertation report writing for for the academic-oriented project type of the agile literature review approach, it is useful to employ the chain of evidence (COE) practice in the dissertation report writing. The COE practice makes use of the following technique:

Explicit labeling  of the main elements of the ALRA (mainly its diagrams):

1. The research-gap translation diagram: the triggering point of intellectual curiosity: TPOIC

2. The research gap-research objective table: the research-gap statements (RGS1, RGS2..etc) and the research objective statements (ROS1, ROS2... etc)

3. The academic ideas on the academic literature review tree: the academic ideas on tree branch 1 (ai 1.1, ai 1.2..., etc).

4. Research methods on the academic literature review tree-b: research method 1 (RM1), research method 2 (RM2), ... etc.

5. Research findings in dissertation report chapter 4 (Presentation of research findings): research finding 1 (RF1), research finding 2 (RF2),... etc.

6. Discussion findings in dissertation report chapter 5 (Discussion of findings): discussion finding 1 (DF1), discussion finding 2 (DF2),... etc.

7. Recommendations in the report chapter  6 (Conclusions and recommendations): Recommendation 1, recommendation 2, ... etc.

When writing your dissertation report, try to provide explicit labels of the ALRA elements in your line of reasoning so that readers can follow your reasoning with reference to your dissertation report 's "evidence ingredients". 

Relevant reading: the chain of evidence practice note for the consulting-oriented project type of the ALRA.

The life history of an academic literature review tree branch: a visual illustration

The life history of an academic literature review tree branch: a visual illustration:

To illustrate how the various ALRA academic-oriented project type deliverables are related, I depict the following visual illustration on the life history of an academic literature review tree branch in form of a diagram. This is shown as follows:

The life history depicts three main life stages: 

Main life stage 1: the embryonic stage (broken down into life stages 1 and 2)

Main life stage 2: the literature review stage (i.e. life stage 3)

Main life stage 3: the research methodology design stage (i.e. life stage 4)

It is important to note that each individual life stage has specific deliverable to produce:

Life stage 1: the research gap-translation diagram

Life stage 2: the research gap-objective table

Life stage 3: the academic literature review tree

Life stage 4: the academic literature review tree-b.

There are two additional (nice-to-have) activities that are complementary in nature:

Construction of theoretical framework A (complementary to life stage 3)

Construction of theoretical framework B (complementary to life stage 4)

In short, the life history goes through 3 main life stages, broken down into 4 life stages.

The life history diagram indicates the locations of the 6 deliverables of the agile literature review approach (the academic-oriented project type). The 6 deliverables are:

Deliverable 1. The research-gap translation diagram

Deliverable 2. The research gap-objective table

Deliverable 3. The academic literature review tree

Deliverable 4. The theoretical framework A

Deliverable 5. The academic literature review tree-b

Deliverable 6. The theoretical framework B.

Regarding the academic ideas hanging on the branch of the literature review tree (deliverable 3), together, they represent the concrete outcome of the researcher's literature review effort on the relevant academic literature (mainly academic journals, textbooks and other dissertation reports). As such, they comprise:

1. theoretical perspectives, theories, concepts and process models from the academic literature.

2. research methods, research techniques and research instruments

3. empirical findings that have reference value to inform the dissertation project methodology design and/or dissertation project findings and analysis.

Two illustrative examples on the formulation of research gap statements and the derived research objective statements.

Two illustrative examples on the formulation of research gap statements and the derived research objective statements. 

This practice note is for study of the academic-oriented dissertation project type that employs the agile literature review approach (ALRA)

Illustration One:

Huber F., Vollhardt, K., Matthes, I. and Vogel, J.. 2010. “Brand misconduct: Consequences on consumer–brand relationships” Journal of Business Research 63, Elseiver: 1113–1120

“Recent research on the relationship between a company and its customers emphasizes the role of the relationship between the brand and the individual (Aaker, 1996; Aaker et al., 2004; Blackston, 2000). In her seminal work Fournier (1994, 1998) states that such relationships are highly vibrant entities that can emerge in various forms. Long lasting relationships can yield concrete benefits for the relationship partners, in particular financial gain for the firm in question (e.g., Reichheld et al., 2000). Yet, thinking for example of Shell's plan to scuttle the Brent Spar oil platform or Google's censorship of search engine results in China, companies and their brands do not always behave according to consumers' expectations. Klein et al. (2004) refer to a company's perceived misbehavior as an egregious act. Focusing on consumer–brand relationships this study takes an interest in companies as brand owners and thus uses the term brand misconduct”.

Research gap statement 1 (suggested): The existing conceptual proposition on the "relationship between brands and individuals" of Aaker (1996), Aaker et al. (2024) and Blackston (2000) that “long lasting relationships between and individual… can yield benefits for the relationship partners” (Huber et al., 2010) has difficulty to explain brand misconduct of companies.

Derived research objective statement 1 (suggested): To develop new concepts and empirical findings beyond that of Aaker (1996), Aaker et al. (2024) and Blackston (2000), in order to explain and evaluate brand misconduct of companies in the Hong Kong retail sector in 2024.

 

Illustration Two:

Son, M.H. and Han, K. 2011. “Beyond the technology adoption: Technology readiness effects on post-adoption behaviour” Journal of Business Research 64, Elsevier: 1178–1182.

“Much of the existing research on new product diffusion focuses on uncovering the factors influencing technology adoption (Huh and Kim, 2008; Shih and Venkatesh, 2004). But the long-term survival and substantial success of technological firms rely on the continued use of the new technology, rather than the first adoption, especially for subscription-based services”.

Research gap statement 2 (suggested): The existing research on new product diffusion predominantly focuses on studying factors influencing technology adoption (Huh and Kim, 2008; Shih and Venkatesh, 2004), while neglecting factors contributing to “the continued use of the new technology… especially for subscription-based services” (Son and Han, 2011).

Derived research objective statement 2 (suggested): To explore factors that can influence Hong Kong consumers’ continued use of new technology-based financial services in 2024.

Additional comments on the research gap analysis for doing dissertation projects:

1. At the initial stage of formulating your dissertation proposal, try to support your research gap analysis with reference to 3 to 4 academic articles.

2. Your initial research gap analysis should lead you to come up with 3 to 4 associated research gap statements (and the corresponding research objective statements). Preferably, two of your research objectives should be the main research objectives, with the rest being the minor research objectives. You could also state that the main research objective(s) constitute your core-focus-domain of your dissertation project. The way to arrive at a coherent set of research gap statements and research objective statements can take the following three sequential activities:

Related study material: on research gap analysis.

The generic form of a theoretical framework level 1-c without the need for a gatekeeper consent form

The generic form of a theoretical framework level 1-c (ALRA) without the need for a gatekeeper consent form

For students unable to do a case study at the individual organizational or the business sector level due to inability to obtain the required gatekeeper consent form, their research methodology blueprint in the form of a theoretical framework level 1c most likely takes the following generic form:

Regarding this theoretical framework level 1c, the core-focus-domain is located in zone 1 (environmental drivers). In this case, the primary research methods (e.g. research method 1: research interview and research method 2: questionnaire survey) are employed to study public opinions on topics such as consumer preferences and company reputation. Participant (interviewees and survey respondents) informed consent forms are needed but not the gatekeeper consent form.

As to items (i.e. research objectives) in zones 2, 3a and 3b, the researcher conducts secondary research method using Internet research (or desk research or library research method) to gather data and docs in the public domain. In this regard, there is no need to use a gatekeeper consent form.

Finally, the researcher needs to justify his/her research topic and research methodology and consult his/ her project supervisor for feedback.

A brief description of "intellectual maturity" and its influence on a student's academic performance

 A brief description of "intellectual maturity"

1. "Intellectual maturity demands rigorous critical thinking, open-mindedness, and humility. It involves recognising the limitations of one’s understanding and being open to questioning and challenging our own assumptions. It involves recognising the limitations of one's understanding and being open to questioning and challenging our own assumptions. It also necessitates adaptability – the capacity to learn, unlearn, and relearn as circumstances evolve.

This quality is grounded in curiosity and a deep-seated love for learning. An intellectually mature leader continually seeks knowledge and understanding across a broad spectrum of fields, understanding that wisdom can emerge from the most unexpected places. They recognise the interconnectedness of things, appreciating how an insight gleaned from one domain can spark innovation in another.

In our post-modern era, where change is a constant and uncertainty the norm, intellectual maturity provides leaders with the necessary mental agility to navigate the turbulent waters of the unknown. It equips them with the ability to discern patterns amidst chaos, drawing upon their broad knowledge and intellectual insight to connect the dots and steer their organisations forward.

Intellectual maturity is also intimately tied to empathy. It’s about understanding and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering an inclusive culture that empowers people to bring their full selves and unique insights to the table". [re: ref 1].

2a. Maturity is the state of being fully developed or adult. [re: ref 2a].

2b. Intellectual means involving a person's ability to think and to understand ideas and information. [re: ref 2b].

My research question is what is the required level of intellectual maturity for students to study for an MBA degree programme and a DBA degree programme?

The research context of discussion is that there are quite some negative comments on studying for an advanced degree programme, including an MBA and a DBA degree programme:

Video 1: 4 reasons to quit your PhD program

Video 2: I quit my PhD

Video 3: The truth about dropping out of a PhD

Video 4: Leaving my PhD Program

Video 5: 3 Reasons Quitting My PhD Was The Best Decision Of My Life

Video 6: The #1 Reason You Should (NOT) Get A Doctorate In Business Administration

Video 7: The Downside Of Pursuing An Executive DBA

A conceptual framework to study a student's academic performance on an advanced degree programme (a draft)

The requisite characteristics of dissertation projects: a note

The requisite characteristics of dissertation projects: a note for undergrad and master degree students (e.g. for my MBA students and housing studies students [honor's degree level]):

1. Exhibit independent thinking and declaration of the researcher's positionality
2. Ensure that the report theme and findings are of originality value (note the related topic of research gap)
3. Exhibit reflection on the whole research project effort (i) for intellectual self-learning and (ii) for research methods quality evaluation [e.g. with qualitative and/or  quantitative research methods  quality criteria]
4. Make use of [preferably updated] concepts and theories from the academic literature and the academic subject of research methods
5. Show high transparency of the dissertation project process and dissertation report content (e.g. clear chain of evidence in dissertation report content).
6. Show strong endorsement with the ethical principles of academic research.
7. Show proper dissertation report writing skills (e.g. on dissertation report structure and academic writing style).

Relevant e-study materials (videos)

A fake example of an informed consent form for interview research

 A fake example of an informed consent form for interview research

Interview Informed Consent Form for the research project of xxxxx carried out by __Betty Fu_ (Research investigator name) for the MBA programme study at the University of Sunling, U.K.

To:   ___Mickey Mo___________  (Interview research participants name), job title: _Sales Manager_____ of ABC Ltd. (organizational unit name).

This consent form is necessary for us to ensure that you understand the purpose of your involvement and that you agree to the conditions of your participation in the dissertation project of (research investigator name) for his study of the MBA Degree programme (programme code) of the University of Sunling University. The main research objective of the dissertation project is: ____  and the main inquiry scope of this interview research is  ______.

1.    Interview participant information and nature of consent

1.    I am over the age of 18

2.    I have read and understood the attached study information and, by signing below, I consent to participate in this study

3.    I understand that I have the right to withdraw from the study without giving a reason at any time during the study itself.

4.    I understand that I also have the right to change my mind about participating in the study for a short period after the study has concluded.

 

2.    Interview research exercise information

·       The interview will take (enter amount of time), in the venue of  (place) and semi-structured in nature.

·       The main interview questions are about: 1….. and 2……

•   The interview will be recorded and a transcript will be produced

·       You will be sent the transcript and given the opportunity to correct any factual errors

 

3.    Risk assessment and safeguard

 

4. Confidentiality safeguard

We don’t anticipate that there are any risks associated with your participation, but you have the right to stop the interview or withdraw,

What if I have concerns about this research? If you are worried about this research, or if you are concerned about how it is being conducted, you can contact the dissertation project supervisor Yip Man (name of the project supervisor), of the University of Sunling (phone no: ….. and email address:…..).

5.    Who review this interview research study?

This research has been reviewed and approved by the Ethics Board of the University of Sunling University UK.. If you have any further questions or concerns about this study. The final dissertation report is to be reviewed by the dissertation project supervisor as well as the external examiners of Sunling University, UK.

 

6.    Quotation Agreement 

I also understand that my words may be quoted directly. With regards to being quoted, please initial next to any of the statements that you agree with:

I wish to review the notes, transcripts, or other data collected during the research pertaining to my participation.

I agree to be quoted directly. I agree to be quoted directly if my name is not published and a made-up name (pseudonym) is used.

I agree that the researchers may publish documents that contain quotations by me.

All or part of the content of your interview may be used:

·       In academic papers, policy papers or news articles

·       On our website and in other media that we may produce such as spoken presentations

·       On other feedback events  In an archive of the project as noted above

 

7.    Possible benefits of participation in the interview research

 

8.    Contact Information 

 

9.    Research parties and approval signature

Name of researcher: Betty Fu

Student number at the university of Sunling University UK.

Programme of study: MBA programme

Tel:              

E-mail:   

You can also contact Yip Man (Researchers name) supervisor at Sunling University, UK:           

Tel:             

E-mail:    

Approval Signature

Printed Name : Mickey Mo

_____________________________________  ____________________

Participants Signature                           Date 

 

Printed Name :Betty Fu

_____________________________________  ____________________

Researchers Signature                           Date

_____________________________________  ____________________

 

 

Printed Name :Betty Fu (Finance manager of ABC Ltd)

_____________________________________  ____________________

Witness Signature                           Date 

 

Tks for participation in the interview research exercise

 

Regards,

Betty Fu

Dated: April 1, 2024

How many informed consent forms to use in a dissertation project: a note

How many informed consent forms to use in a dissertation project: a note.

This note is mainly for my MBA students doing dissertation projects. While the university has produced an informed consent form template to students, quite a number of dissertation project students are still not clear (a) how many informed consent forms to construct  and (b) how to adapt the informed consent form template to work out a specific informed consent form. 

I try to offer some clarification and help to students here.

Situation one: doing a case study with a specific organization:

Form 1: Produce a gatekeeper informed consent form (e.g. a fake example)

Form 2: participant informed consent forms

Form 2.1: interviewee participant informed consent form (if research interview is to be conducted). (e.g. a fake example)

Form 2.2: questionnaire participant informed consent form (if questionnaire survey is to be conducted) [most likely, the introduction section of the questionnaire serves the function of an informed consent form].

Situation two: doing primary research with the general public

Form 1: interviewee participant informed consent form (if research interview is to be conducted).

Form 2: questionnaire participant informed consent form (if questionnaire survey is to be conducted) [most likely, the introduction section of the questionnaire serves the function of an informed consent form].

Gatekeeper consent form sample for MBA student: a fake example

Gatekeeper Consent form and Participant information sheet for dissertation project work

 

To Ms Elaine Musk, CEO of ABC Ltd.

I would like to seek your approval to me for conducting an evaluative research study on the innovation capability of the Retail Sales Unit of ABC Ltd.

My name is Sam Hui, and I am a Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at the University of Sunling, conducting a dissertation project titled “An evaluation of the innovation capability of the Retail Sales Unit of ABC Ltd. The purpose of this evaluative study is on the innovative capability of the Retail Sales Unit of ABC Ltd. Two primary research works, i.e. interview research and questionnaire survey, are to be conducted in March, 2024. The overall duration of the primary data gathering exercise in ABC Ltd. is 2 weeks. Further information on the primary research works in ABC Ltd are follows

 

1.    On Face-to-face interview research

1.1          Interview participants to be invited: sales representatives and Sales managers of the Retail Sales Unit.

1.2          Basic information and confirmation to be collected from the interview participants are:

·       I am over the age of 18

·       I have read and understood the attached study information and, by signing below, I consent to participate in this study

·       I understand that I have the right to withdraw from the study without giving a reason at anytime during the study itself.

·       I understand that I also have the right to change my mind about participating in the study for a short period after the study has concluded.

1.3          The scope of the interview questions is mainly on the participants’ view on the innovation capability of the Retail Sales Unit.

1.4          The interview is semi-structured with 4-5 questions to ask.

1.5          Duration of the interview per participant is about 30 min.

1.6          The interview is to be conducted in the office of ABC Ltd.

 

2.    Questionnaire Survey research

2.1          Survey participants to be invited: non-sales staff of the Retail Sales Unit.

2.2          Basic information and confirmation to be collected from the survey participants are:

·       I am over the age of 18

·       I have read and understood the attached study information and, by signing below, I consent to participate in this study

·       I understand that I have the right to withdraw from the study without giving a reason at anytime during the study itself.

·       I understand that I also have the right to change my mind about participating in the study for a short period after the study has concluded.

2.3          The scope of the questionnaire survey questions is mainly on the participants’ view on the innovation capability of the Retail Sales Unit.

2.4          Electronic survey questionnaire is to be distributed to the staff via their office email address.

2.5          The questionnaire comprises 18 questions

 

3.    Benefits

While there will be no material gain from allowing me to conduct research study in your organization, you may gain valuable insights from the findings of the research.

4.    Risks

There are no inherent risks associated with this research study.  The interview questions and survey questionnaire are to be reviewed by you (the gatekeeper) beforehand in this regard.

5.    Confidentiality

All information collected during this study will be kept confidential.  The dissertation report uses a faked name for the company. The research and data will be solely used for the MBA dissertation.  The dissertation report is to be examined by the dissertation supervisor as well as the dissertation project examiners only. It is not to be accessible to other parties.

6. Review of the research project

The research design and the final dissertation report are to be approved and assessed by the dissertation project supervisor and the external examiner of the University of Sunling, UK.

7.    Contact Information

 If you have any further questions or concerns about this study, please contact:

Researcher: Sam Hui

 

MBA Student of University of Sunling MBA Research Project MMMGTM05

Student No 3062470000

Phone: 26636666

Email: Sam.hui@dragonball.com

 

You can also contact Sam Hui’s supervisor:

Supervisor: Rambo Wan

Phone: 77774848

Email: Rambo.wan@Sunling.com.hk

 

 

8.    Approval signature

Signature of gatekeeper on approval for the conduct of the dissertation project in the Retail Sales Unit of ABC Ltd.

 

________________________________

Signature of Ms Elaine Musk, the CEO of ABC Ltd, as the gatekeeper of the case study research  Date

 

 

Signature of researcher

 

________________________________

I believe the gatekeeper is giving informed consent  on this study

Signature of researcher Date

 

 

 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

 

Sincerely,

Sam Hui