Theses can take various forms, combining development and research perspectives with different emphases. Choose a suitable format for your thesis that best supports your objectives and allows you to demonstrate your skills and develop your professional field. Here are some common forms of theses:
In this work, an organization's process, practical operations, service, product, or creation is developed, and solutions are evaluated using research methods. In practice–based thesis, a deliverable is often produced for the client, such as a video, guidelines, a service, or an application.
This is the traditional form of thesis work, where qualitative or quantitative applied research is conducted to understand and solve practical problems in the field. The methods used in research-based thesis work can be quantitative, qualitative, theoretical, or combinations thereof.
In this type of thesis, the focus is on analyzing and evaluating relevant literature related to the topic.
This work combines research and development.
The Master's thesis is a development task closely related to the student's professional field. The purpose is for the student to demonstrate and deepen their professional expertise.
The thesis can be conducted as a single large project or it can consist of various-sized and different types of sub-projects or tasks that are meaningfully interconnected. For example, system development often requires data collection at the beginning and end of the project. The process often involves testing and modifications as well.
In this work, a diary-based format is used to describe one's own work and tasks in the field from the perspective of personal development and advancement in the field. The report includes a theoretical foundation and a diary that can be organized thematically or on a weekly basis. The focus is on the student's reflection, ideation, and conclusions. This format is suitable for students who are employed and can integrate their thesis into the development of their own work. It is particularly well-suited for students working in broad expert roles or demanding and diverse entry-level positions.
The goal of a diary-based thesis is for the student to examine their work through the lens of theory. For example, if a student is working in customer service, they can describe a customer service situation and then analyse it using a theoretical framework. Psychological aspects (customer behaviour), legislation (data protection, return policies), technical guidance (device instructions), and other relevant topics may come into play.
Before starting the thesis, the duration, themes, and objectives are agreed upon with the employer and the supervising teacher. The themes covered in the work can be related to various functions within the company. Alternatively, the student can choose a topic they want to learn more about or that is in the planning phase within the company. A diary-based thesis should have a clearly defined timeframe, which should be at least ten weeks.
The thesis process involves analysing one's own work and reporting through diary entries. Through their choices and documentation, the student demonstrates their ability to apply and recognize the practical and theoretical aspects of their work. Therefore, this type of thesis is best suited for active and development-oriented students.
In a diary-type thesis, the student describes their daily tasks in the diary and provides a weekly analysis that connects their actions to the relevant theory. This helps them develop a solid foundation of knowledge required for their tasks, including key contents and professional concepts. The diary itself does not serve as a reflection tool; instead, it focuses on documenting the current situation, work content, and theoretical basis. A comprehensive analysis of the period is presented in separate chapters.
In practice, a diary-based thesis serves as a tool for the student to analyse their tasks and the expertise they acquire in their work, and it serves as the basis for the thesis reporting. The thesis demonstrates the student's professional growth, so it is important to incorporate relevant literature in the field and evaluate one's own work based on that.
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Structure of Traditional development and research report
1. Introduction
Background and perspective of the topic selection
Brief description of the purpose, objectives, and methods used
Mention of key concepts and framework
Justification of the topic's relevance, importance, benefits, and significance to the client or professional field, as well as personal professional development
Research problem/research questions/development task
2. Theoretical Framework and Literature Review
Description and application of the theoretical framework used
Making connections between the theoretical foundation and practical application
3. Description of the Development/Research Task, Empirical Data, and Process
Description of the methods and data used, ensuring the assessment of reliability
4. Results
Presentation of the findings and outcomes
Drawing conclusions from the results and discussing them in relation to the initial objectives of the development/research task
Reflecting the theoretical framework on the empirical data and demonstrating the practical utilization of the results: how the thesis has contributed to or expanded knowledge in the field and how the results can be practically applied
5. Summary and Discussion
Evaluation of the thesis topic, execution, and ethical considerations
Comparison of the results with the initial research questions and reflection on any new questions that have emerged
Presenting personal opinions and perspectives on the development/research work
References
Appendices
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Practise-based thesis (development project)
1. Introduction
Presentation and introduction to the topic and background of the project.
2. Purpose, Objectives, and Needs Analysis of the Development Project
Project background, purpose, and defined objectives.
3. Theoretical Background
Presentation of relevant theories and theoretical foundation related to the topic.
4. Planning and Implementation of the Development Project
Planning, strategy, and execution of the development project.
5. Results of the Development Project
Presentation of the achieved results during the project.
6. Summary and Reflection
Evaluation of the project's results and drawing conclusions.
Reflection on the project's success and potential further actions.
References
Appendices
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Structure of a Diary-Based Thesis
1. Introduction
Introduction to the background of the theme/themes
Justification of the need for the thesis
Description of the author's interests and starting points
Presentation of research problems/questions
2. Description of the Current Situation and Theoretical Background
Introduction to the company and work environment
Identification of stakeholders and their interests
Description of the required competencies in the workplace
Description of the author's job tasks and required skills
Description of the author's professional development stage and needs
Description of the theory related to the chosen theme (key theoretical and professional concepts)
3. Purpose, Objectives, and Planning
Refinement of research problems/questions
Definition of the purpose of the thesis and learning objectives
Plan for diary reporting (by themes, weekly, and/or daily)
Plan for the content of the diary reports (development ideas)
4. Description of Work Tasks and Learning through Diary Entries
Description of observed aspects in the work with reference to the theoretical background
Presentation of good practices for improving situations based on the theoretical background
Evaluation of different approaches, justification of their suitability for the author's work, or development of alternative approaches
5. Reflection
Critical evaluation of the overall thesis in diary format, its applicability, developmental trajectory, and future plans
Description of feedback received from potential stakeholders
Critical self-reflection on personal learning
References
Appendices
