Dissertations: writing the results/ analysis chapter Dr Jessica Hancock Lecturer in Academic Development

Today Understand what’s required in your analysis and findings chapter Think about effective ways of writing about qualitative and quantitative data jessica.hancock@gcu.ac.uk londonadt.youcanbook.me

Chapter contents Data results – what Discussion – why – link to literature review

Writing task What are your main findings (one or two sentences)? How do these compare to previous research?

Qualitative data

Processing qualitative data Volume of information How does it fit in with your research question? System to locate patterns and formulate theory – codes, memos

Coding example: problems with group work A didn’t send it their part before the deadline B only did half of the agreed work count C’s stuff was terrible, no references at all D’s work was all copied from the internet E wrote something but it didn’t make any sense

Connecting codes/ themes Contribution levels Attitudes to time Participation in meetings Differences in expectations

Quantitative data

Key terms Variable, constant Independent and dependent variables: relationship In the US, people who talk slowly have a higher rate of skin cancer. Why? http://www.marchex.com/2016/02/02/talkative/

Charts

Charts are about communication Simplify pattern discovery Not wow factor Not misleading Think about: What is it for? What question does it answer?

Embedding visual data Title – e.g. Table 1 / Figure 1 etc - at the bottom Secondary source - in text citation Integrate it within your writing

Summary Data isn’t an end in itself Charts and tables can help us interpret information Significance of results - connections