Research Paper

Master in Business and Technology & Master in International Business

Leo Van Hove

• Learning objectives

At the end of this course, students should be able to look up relevant (scientific) economic literature in bibliographic databases such as the Web of Science. They should also be able to write an adequately documented research proposal for their master thesis, containing: a critical literature review, clear research questions, a detailed explanation (and justification) of the research method(s), a provisional structure of the master thesis, and a list of references drafted according to a generally accepted system.

• Content

The main task for students is to write a paper in preparation of their Master thesis. The paper is written under the direction of the future promoter of the Master thesis.

The paper should contain:

• a reasoned description of the scope of the topic;
• a critical literature review (guideline: 5,000 words and 10 peer-reviewed articles);
• clear research questions that are derived from the existing literature;
• a detailed explanation (and justification) of the selected research method(s);
• a provisional structure of the master thesis, with justification;
• a list of references drafted according to a generally accepted referencing system (depending on the preferences of the promoter: APA or another system).

The promoter can always give additional instructions.

A number of introductory sessions will be given by the holder of the course. These sessions will (1) explain the goals of the paper and the Master thesis, (2) give an overview of the electronic databases that are available, (3) explain how students should draft a list of references and refer to the literature consulted, and (4) give tips on writing a paper and a dissertation.

• Course material

A brochure entitled 'Introduction to writing a master thesis' is available via Canvas.

If you still have questions, this is a booklet that I like: Neugeboren, Robert H., The student’s guide to writing economics, Routledge, 2005 (ISBN 0-415-70123-6).

• Assessment

There is no exam as such. Students are quoted on their paper. The promoter grades the paper, and, in doing so, reviews both the content as well as the list of references.

Students need to register their topic and promotor in MaThIS before December 1st. If this is not the case, the student is not allowed to submit a paper in the current academic year, not in the first session, nor in the second session.