Master International Communication

Transcription

1 Master International Communication - Dissertation Handbook - Student Student name Student number Dissertation Project Supervisor & Assessor First supervisor Second supervisor 1 Master International Communication Dissertation

2 The Master of International Communication (MIC) is a joint master program, organized by the following universities: Leeds Beckett University Rose Bowl Portland Gate 1 Leeds LS1 3HB The United Kingdom Vilnius University Faculty of Communication Saulėtekio av. 9, 1st building LT Vilnius Lithuania Libera Universita di Lingue e Comunicazione IULM Via Carlo Bo, Milano Italy Hanze University of Applied Sciences School of Communication, Media & IT Attn: Dania Fang, Office C2.51a Zernikeplein AS Groningen The Netherlands Contact details for questions about this handbook: Chair Geert Hofstede Consortium Dania Fang: r.fang@pl.hanze.nl Please note: This handbook has been written with the greatest possible care. If however you find inconsistencies or contradictory information, please contact Dania Fang at r.fang@pl.hanze.nl 2 Master International Communication Dissertation

3 Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS... 3 INTRODUCTION... 4 THE DISSERTATION PROJECT THE PROJECT THE PRINCIPAL STAGES OF THE DISSERTATION PROJECT... 5 PERMISSION TO START CRITERIA FOR A DISSERTATION ASSIGNMENT APPROVAL OF THE ASSIGNMENT... 7 INTERNATIONAL CLIENT ORGANIZATION ACQUISITION OF A CLIENT AGREEMENT WITH THE CLIENT... 8 DISSERTATION PROPOSAL DISSERTATION REPORT YOUR DISSERTATION SUPERVISOR DEFENCE LEARNING STATEMENT (PART OF PDP) ASSESSMENT OF THE DISSERTATION PROJECT PLANNING APPENDIX 1. MIC COMPETENCES APPENDIX 2. PERMISSION FORM DISSERTATION PROJECT APPENDIX 3. SUPERVISION LOG APPENDIX 4. ASSESSMENT OF DISSERTATION PROPOSAL APPENDIX 5. ASSESSMENT OF DISSERTATION PROJECT MIC ASSESSMENT FORM DISSERTATION REPORT (1) MIC ASSESSMENT OF DISSERTATION REPORT GUIDELINES MIC ASSESSMENT FORM DEFENCE (2) MIC DISSERTATION PROJECT FINAL ASSESSMENT FORM (3) APPENDIX 6. PROCEDURES FOR THE MIC DISSERTATION PROCESS APPENDIX 7. EXAMPLE CONTRACT WORK PLACEMENT AGREEMENT MIC DISSERTATION ASSIGNMENT EXECUTIVE BOARD, HANZE UNIVERSITY GRONINGEN Master International Communication Dissertation

4 Introduction The purpose of these guidelines is to provide guidance to students who are about to undertake the Master Proof as part of their Master s degree. The Dissertation Project results in the following assessed products: - A Dissertation proposal - A Dissertation - Defence of the Dissertation The Dissertation Project is an integral part of the educational and evaluative process of the MIC program. While undertaking the Dissertation Project, students remain under the supervision and responsibility of the MIC Consortium partner universities. This means that the partner universities: - Ensure that the Dissertation Project is carefully planned - Provide adequate supervision - Assess the final products on the basis of relevant assessment criteria You can find the formal procedures for the MIC Dissertation Process in the Appendix 6 Attention: Please note that the guidelines in this handbook are the MIC-consortium guidelines with respect to the dissertation process. Each university in the consortium can apply their own additional procedures and guidelines, for as far as these guidelines or procedures are not conflicting with what is described in this handbook. 4 Master International Communication Dissertation

5 The Dissertation Project 2.1 The Project The MIC Dissertation Project is considered as the Master Proof by which you can demonstrate your ability to independently make a substantial contribution towards the solution of a communication problem in an international and intercultural context. It gives you the opportunity to apply what you have learned in the first two semesters in a professional international setting. The MIC Dissertation Project will be executed in your third semester, and comprises approximately 20 calendar weeks. For your Project you will execute a Dissertation Assignment given by an international client organization from the not-for-profit, private and or public sectors. The Dissertation Project is carried out under the supervision of two expert supervisors from the MIC consortium partners. As a general rule, your first supervisor will be your contact person throughout the dissertation process. He or she is a faculty member of one of the two universities for which you intend to graduate. The proposal, report and the defence will be also assessed by a second supervisor, of the other university involved in your Master s program. The MIC Dissertation project is a client-driven, supervised learning process. To the extent possible, it simulates a professional consultancy-approach emphasizing deadlines and professional standards for work products, as well as the imperative to make decisions and recommendations based on imperfect information. It recognizes the importance of being responsive to clients and cooperating with others. The Dissertation Report is the equivalent of a Master Proof (roughly 18,000 words) with a strong emphasis on the advisory nature of the report. It is an individually prepared piece of work, which needs to be of a high analytical and conceptual standard and presented in good English. It gives you the opportunity to apply what you have learned in the first two semesters in a professional international setting. You are supposed to explore an area that is relevant to the field of international communication and do this in some depth and through independent study. The entire dissertation project is worth 30 ECTS. It is a matter for the students to decide how much time you are able to devote to this learning process, but you should expect to complete this project roughly in 840 hours (21 weeks of 40 hours). 2.2 The Principal Stages of the Dissertation Project The stages you will go through are: 1. Decide on a topic 2. Acquisition of a project: find a client 3. Agreement with the client about the project 4. Request permission for approval of your topic and client (see dissertation permission form, Appendix 2); 5. Submit a Dissertation proposal. Develop your Dissertation proposal with the help of your assigned supervisor(s). Your Dissertation proposal is formally assessed. You need a Pass before you can start writing your dissertation 6. Execute the assignment and write the Dissertation Report in dialogue with your supervisor; 7. Submit Dissertation Report 8. Submit Learning Statement together with Dissertation Report 9. Final Defence before Supervisor and -if possible- Client 5 Master International Communication Dissertation

6 This handbook provides extra information on each of these stages. It includes a description of the following: Chapter 3 Permission to start Relevant forms To be approved by Each student needs permission before he or she can start working on the dissertation project 4 Dissertation Assignment The relation between the student and the client are formalized by some kind of an contract 5 Dissertation proposal The proposal describes what you will do in Dissertation project 6 Dissertation Report A professional product based on applied research and includes an advice 7 Dissertation Supervisors Your dissertation supervisor will guide you through your dissertation project and be involved in the assessment of your work. 8 Dissertation Defence Presentation of your dissertation to a panel of examiners and preferably your client. 9 Learning Statement A personal statement reflecting on your learning experiences during the project. Permission form Dissertation Project (Appendix 2) As an appendix to the permission form: Example contract (Appendix 7) Assessment of Dissertation Proposal (Appendix 4) Assessment of Dissertation Project (Appendix 5) Supervision log, in which you monitor your requests for supervision (Appendix 3) Assessment of Defence (Appendix 5) Chair Geert Hofstede Consortium The Client, the student (and the host university) 1 st and 2 nd supervisors 1 st, 2 nd and additional examiners of the two relevant universities 1 st, 2 nd and additional examiners of the two relevant universities PDP - teacher 10 Assessment of dissertation project An overview of the products and how they should be submitted for assessment 11 Dissertation planning An overview of how to plan your dissertation project Assessment of Dissertation Project (Appendix 5) 1 st and 2 nd supervisors/ examiners 6 Master International Communication Dissertation

7 Permission to start 3.1 Criteria for a dissertation assignment You decide on a topic for your dissertation. This topic has to be relevant to the field of the MIC program. Then you have to find an international client organization where you can execute an assignment in line with your topic of preference. It is recommended that you discuss your (potential) assignment with the teaching staff of the MIC consortium universities. There are 2 important criteria for your dissertation assignment: I. Assignments must be in the area of International communication (covering MIC subject matter, e.g., area of specialization) II. Assignments must be supported by an established, professional, public, private, or non-profit organization whose functions includes communication in an international setting. The MIC program will not approve or give credit for assignments where the duties and the function of the organization are primarily operational in nature. 3.2 Approval of the assignment All dissertation assignments conducted by MIC students must receive formal permission in advance. Consequently, once you have a client and a topic, it is your responsibility to request an approval for the topic of your Dissertation Project. Approval will be based on the dissertation permission form (see Appendix 2). You receive approval under the following conditions: - You have completed the first semester of the curriculum of the MIC. - Your dissertation topic meets the 2 criteria specified above (assignment covers a MIC subject matter, and is supported by a relevant organization). Summarized, it is essential that you complete the dissertation permission form, and that it is signed by the Chair Geert Hofstede Consortium (See Appendix 2). After approval, your Dissertation Supervisors will be assigned or confirmed. Your first dissertation supervisor will guide you through the Dissertation Project, and will also be grading your project. This will be done together with a second supervisor from the university where you did the other semester of your Master program. 7 Master International Communication Dissertation

8 International Client Organization 4.1 Acquisition of a client The MIC program emphasizes applied learning in a real-client context. The Dissertation Assignment itself is treated as a "consultancy" rather than an internship in that your client organization offers a specific assignment with an end product. There are two ways in which to complete the dissertation project: 1. The first is for the student to complete an agreed- upon consultancy assignment on-site. Students report to the international client organization's and work from the client s workplace. Some additional work tasks are possible as long at these tasks do not interfere with the dissertation project. This additional work can be in the form of an internship. 2. Independent Consultancy: the dissertation project is treated as an independent consultancy assignment. Using this approach, the student would meet with the client to map out the goals and the specific communication deliverable for the assignment (communication plan, advice on image change, campaign plan etc). Students could have periodic meetings with the client organization, but would not be required to perform the work on-site. (It remains possible however, to spend a few weeks in-company to get to know the organization). In both cases, the student needs to obtain a client organization. There are a number of options to do this, among which we can mention: - A student approaches an organization for a suitable assignment - A student asks an organization permission to research a particular topic - An international client organization asks a student to carry out an assignment - An international client organization offers the university an assignment - The university offers the student an assignment During the acquisition phase, students may use the support offered by the participating universities. 4.2 Agreement with the client The relation between the student and the client are formalized by some kind of contract. Sometimes a client has a standardized contract arrangement, in other cases the student has to make an agreement together with the client. A client might require the student to do a limited amount of operational work or other activities not directly related to the dissertation assignment. Arrangements MUST be made between the student and the client organization about the content of the assignment and potential additional work, and about the kind of supervision the student will receive from the client: 1. The assignment ensues from a real need within the client organisation and is felt to be sufficiently urgent 2. If the university considers it necessary for the assignment, the student will get the opportunity to extend the assignment beyond the client organisation to other organisations 3. The assignment is supported by the executives of the organisation 4. The organisation gives the student the opportunity to consult with staff-members who are involved in the problem 5. Subject to the requirements regarding their independence, students may call upon the assistance of a supervisor or, as the case may be, of the provider of the assignment within the organisation. 8 Master International Communication Dissertation

9 6. Confidentiality agreement The client organisation may decide to make available a financial compensation for executing the assignment. Any arrangements regarding this, as well as regarding any in-house arrangements and facilities will be a matter for the assignment-providing organisation and the student. From the point of view of MIC, it is not strictly necessary to spend the entire dissertation period within the organisation where the assignment is carried out. In consultation with the assignment-providing organisation, the assignment may also be carried out elsewhere. 9 Master International Communication Dissertation

10 Dissertation proposal You are required to create a Dissertation proposal. This proposal describes what you will do in your Dissertation Project, and how you will organize it. The Dissertation Assignment proposal is subject to approval by your Dissertation Supervisors. The Dissertation proposal is assessed as a Pass/Fail. Only after receiving a Pass you can start writing your Dissertation. A well-designed Dissertation proposal is designed to help you plan for, and thus complete your dissertation project to the best of your ability. A Dissertation proposal includes -at least- the following: I. Working title of the dissertation; II. Introduction: introduction to the topic, and to the client. The introduction explains why the topic is relevant, and consequently, introduces the context of your research problem III. Initial literature review and theoretical framework(s): you describe which theoretical topics, and which literature, will be the starting point of the literature review in your dissertation IV. Problem statement and/or research aim. Which problem or issue is going to be resolved by your dissertation project? Ideally, this research aim provides a fairly general statement of what you intend to explore. Usually, it can be described in one or two sentences. If you find your research aim needs more than two sentences, then this is an indication that you need to focus down the general statement of the research aim. V. Research questions and/or research objectives: which questions will be answered by your dissertation project, or which objectives will be realized with your project. The research questions and/or objectives are a specification of the problem statement. As a rough guide, between three and seven questions/objectives is a sensible number. VI. Research design and methods: description of how you are going to execute your research; division between primary and secondary research. You make this explicit for each research question. Especially when you envisage extensive primary research, an extensive methodology description is relevant. VII. Planning: a preliminary planning of activities to be executed during your dissertation assignment VIII. Contact details of the people involved in your project (you, the MIC dissertation supervisor, the client supervisor) Page 15 gives the planning, with the dates when you have to submit your Dissertation proposal. Appendix 4 presents the assessment form for the dissertation proposal. Attention: Students of Leeds Beckett University (LBU) have to keep in mind, that LBU students have to do a Research Methods module, in which the assignment is to write a Dissertation proposal. This is a different assignment than the MIC proposal, with possibly a different deadline. Students can choose, of course, to use their MIC dissertation proposal also for the LBU Research Methods assignment, but they can also chose to do a separate topic for the LBU assignment. 10 Master International Communication Dissertation

11 Dissertation Report The Dissertation Report is an integral part of the educational and evaluative process of the MIC program. It is also a professional product, with an advisory nature, which aims to encourage: - Independent thought and initiative; - Applying research-based knowledge to a specific, well defined problem an organisation is facing and which needs to be addressed from communication perspective; - Exploring all stakeholders involved in the problem and of the field of forces within which the organisation operates; - Providing analytically solid, practical and feasible solutions to the organizational client. The content of the report should contain both theoretical and empirical insights. It is not simply 'a long essay', surveying the arguments of material contained in a limited number of references on a broadly defined topic. Nor is it solely a practical communication plan, outlining steps on how to improve communication. It is far more than this - the dissertation report is an opportunity for students to stretch their abilities and to demonstrate how to evaluate and analyse a particular issue. You should avoid regarding the report as simply the final bound document that is produced at the end. The report is best thought of as a highly individual process of research, reportage and reflection, which tests the MIC professional competencies. The report will give you the opportunity to explore at length some aspects of theory or methods, knowledge or skills, introduced in the earlier stages of the MIC program. Your exploration might, for example, take the form of: - An analysis of communication theory or methods for a real international client organization; - The development or customising of methods for use in a real situation; - The testing or extending theory through survey, interview, observation of a real situation, or investigating sources of secondary data; - The extension of your knowledge base in a particular area through extended literature search and interviews. The primary aim of this exploration is to enhance your own learning in an area of your own choice. Your Dissertation Report will be considered as an individual thesis that requires individual assessment. Specifically, the Dissertation Report should: 1. Analyse and develop an issue associated with the field of International Communication. 2. Critically select and discuss, and rigorously apply an appropriate research methodology in a reflective manner. 3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the various international, intercultural relationships, and interactions impacting upon the research. 4. Demonstrate a rigorous understanding of the theory and literature relevant to the issues under investigation. 5. Reflect upon and assess the generalisability of any findings and the extent to which the research contributes to the understanding of communication problems and issues. 6. Have a critical and reflective understanding of the processes involved in undertaking the research. 7. Provide realistic and sound advice to the client s communication opportunities or challenges 11 Master International Communication Dissertation

12 The MIC consortium has chosen for a competency-based approach to the Master s programme, because it considers this the appropriate approach for professional development. (See Appendix 1) Your Dissertation Supervisor After you receive permission to start with your dissertation project, a first Supervisor and a second Supervisor will be appointed to you. Your first Supervisor will guide you through your dissertation assignment, and grade your proposal, report and defence together with your second supervisor. Wherever possible, an attempt is made to match the dissertation topic of the student with the subject expertise of staff. There is no guarantee, however, that staff expertise is sufficiently comprehensive to accommodate the, often idiosyncratic, nature of some student topics. All staff appointed to supervise master s dissertations are suitably qualified and experienced. Once the supervisors have been allocated, the student should attempt to contact his/her first supervisor as soon as possible. During initial meetings with the supervisor you will discuss the specific aim and objectives of your dissertation, the methodology and the content of the dissertation proposal. The timing of these first, and all subsequent, meetings, between student and dissertation supervisor are a matter of mutual agreement. Please note that students have the right to four feedback moments from their 1 st supervisors. (See Appendix 3) It is the supervisor's responsibility to monitor student progress and to give advice, not to chase students or do their work for them. It is important to note that it is the student s responsibility to determine the work schedule, to arrange for meetings and complete the dissertation. Supervisors are there to guide you, not to write the document - nor will they simply tell you what to do. Supervisors will expect students to: - organise meetings regularly - work towards preparing material in readiness for the arranged meetings - be committed and enthusiastic - follow the advice/feedback given - work independently - use initiative The role of the supervisor resembles the role of a project manager, giving oversight and guidance. In particular, you can expect your supervisor to: - assist and monitor your progress in the dissertation process, within the restricted time allocated to the supervisor for this task - give advice/feedback - provide constructive criticism - you may reasonably expect your supervisors to agree to regular meetings of 30 minutes duration (approximately) at 4-6 weekly intervals; to provide constructive feedback on the conduct of your research and written submissions prepared for, but submitted in advance of, these meetings; and to support the student's interests by offering advice and guidance. It is not the role of your Dissertation Supervisor to write or proof-read the dissertation report. Besides your (first) supervisor described above, your proposal, report and the defence will also be moderated by a second supervisor of the university where you did the other semester of the MIC. 12 Master International Communication Dissertation

13 The formal procedures of the MIC dissertation process, including the obligations of the supervisor(s), are specified in Appendix 6. With respect to the communication with your first supervisor, you are requested to keep a log and submit it with the final version of your dissertation report; see Appendix 3. Defence Nowadays, the presentation is becoming one of the most popular reporting devices. In many companies, the traditional report has been replaced by visual presentation (powerpoint, digital multimedia). You will have to present your dissertation assignment to your dissertation supervisor, and, preferably simultaneously, also to your client. If possible, the opinion of the client will be included in the overall defence/presentation assessment. You will be admitted to the defence after your dissertation report is of sufficient level. Your defence will be organized on location of the university of your first supervisor. Physical presence at the defence is not required. If due to practical reasons (like travel distance) you cannot be present, then an online defence (through skype) will be arranged. Both your dissertation report and your defence should be of sufficient level before you can receive a passing grade for your dissertation project. Your final dissertation project grade will be communicated after the defence. Learning Statement (part of PDP) Students are also required to submit a brief statement of words reflecting on their learning experiences during the Dissertation Project with their final version of dissertation report. The learning statement is assessed as part of your PDP. Assessment of the learning statement will not be part of your dissertation assignment. The relevant learning outcome from the Dissertation Project specification document states that: On successful completion of the module, the student will be able to reflect critically on their learning experience in relation to the production of the dissertation: indicating their capacity for dealing successfully with the interpersonal, communication and political aspects of their project area. Thus, the statement should consider key learning experiences (using specific examples) from the Dissertation Project Process and demonstrate a critical awareness of the student s learning and development as professionals and as researchers. The skills for learning at one of the MIC partners website ( ) provides some guidance on reflection which is likely to be useful in developing a learning statement. There is no one best way to reflect on learning, but students are required to show that they have thought about their learning and identified both what and how they have developed when working on their dissertation. A key aspect of this would be to show what problems they encountered and what they would do differently in the future in addition to the more successful elements. You should not leave this until the last minute (a common problem) it is important to see this as a part of the ongoing process of researching and writing your Dissertation Report. 13 Master International Communication Dissertation

14 Assessment of the Dissertation Project Assessment of the Dissertation Project will be done according to the following: Product Dissertation proposal Deliverable Digital copy Students are allowed to start writing their dissertation report after the Dissertation proposal has been approved by both supervisors Dissertation Report The dissertation report will be reviewed under the condition that the 2 deliverables (the digital copy and the hard copy) are received on or before the deadline Digital copy Hard copy Defence (potentially including Presentation and underlying slide show) Students are allowed to the defence if the student received a pass for the dissertation report Oral defence, on location at one of the partner universities or by Skype During the dissertation period, students have to meet high standards regarding the integration of knowledge and insight, methodical approach, depth and creativity, professional attitude and skills, and efficient reporting. The assessment of the dissertation assignment is based on the MIC competencies. All deliverables have to be submitted to each of the 2 universities involved in your graduation, on or before the deadline mentioned in the planning chapter of this dissertation handbook. The deliverables (proposal, report and the defence) will be moderated, and graded by supervisors from both universities of your MIC program. Your report will be assessed based on the criteria mentioned in Appendix 5 (Assessment). Please note that, in some cases, the procedures of the university prescribe that the dissertation is assessed by an additional independent assessor, or by a committee of assessors. Inform yourself about the specific assessment procedures of the 2 universities involved in your graduation. Both your dissertation report and your defence should be of sufficient level before you can receive a passing grade for your dissertation project. Your final dissertation grade will be communicated after the defence. The supervisors account for the grade with a written explanation. This explanation is given in the Assessment Form. In the event of a fail, the supervisors will consider whether an addition to, or improvement of the original assignment may lead to a satisfactory result (a pass). The evaluation of the dissertation, as detailed in the assessment form, will serve as the basis for this. If, after consultation with those involved, the supervisors feels that improving the dissertation assignment will not lead to a positive result, then the Consortium Chair will be involved in the process. The Consortium Chair will consult the student about doing a new assignment. If any objection is raised against the assessment of the dissertation assignment, the examination regulations will apply. 14 Master International Communication Dissertation

15 Planning The planning presented below contains a number of deadlines. Most importantly, there are 2 defence moments, one in January and one in May / June. A student failing to meet the second defence moment in June has to pay an additional tuition fee, if he or she wishes to continue with the MIC. May 1, 2015 Sept. 11, 2015 Jan. 4, 2016 Last 2 weeks of Jan Oct. 30, 2015 Feb. 12, 2016 May 2, 2016 Last week of May and 1 st week of June 2016 Planning for students wishing to graduate in January Deadline permission to start : submission of Permission Form Dissertation Project to Dania Fang at r.fang@pl.hanze.nl Within 2 weeks after submission of their permission form, students are informed if they have permission to start. A first and second supervisor are appointed to the students with permission to start. Deadline Dissertation proposal. The student sends a digital version of the proposal to first and second supervisor (and Cc Dania Fang). Students who fail to submit their proposal on this date will not be allowed to the January 4 dissertation deadline, and can use the next opportunity on May 2. Within 2 weeks after submission of their proposal, students are informed by their first supervisor if their proposal is a pass. Deadline submission dissertation report. The students sends a digital version (Cc Dania Fang) and a hard copy of the dissertation report to first and second supervisor. If you submit your hard copy by postage mail, it should be post marked January 4, Within 2 weeks after submission of their dissertation report, only students who have passed their dissertation report are invited to the defence. However, this does not imply that you already passed your dissertation project as a whole. You will receive the final mark for your dissertation project after the defence. Defence days Planning for students wishing to graduate in June Deadline permission to start : submission of Permission Form Dissertation Project to Dania Fang at r.fang@pl.hanze.nl Within 2 weeks after submission of their permission form, students are informed if they have permission to start. A first and second supervisor are appointed to the students with permission to start. Deadline Dissertation proposal. The student sends a digital version of the proposal to first and second supervisor (and Cc Dania Fang). Students who fail to submit their proposal on this date will not be allowed to the May 2 dissertation deadline, and can use the next opportunity in January (more than a year later)! Within 2 weeks after submission of their proposal, students are informed by their first supervisor if their proposal is a pass. Deadline dissertation report. The students sends a digital version version (Cc Dania Fang) and a hard copy of the dissertation report to first and second supervisor. If you submit your hard copy by postage mail, it should be post marked May 2. Within 2 weeks after submission of their dissertation report, only students who have passed their dissertation report are invited to the defence. However, this does not imply that you already passed your dissertation project as a whole. You will receive the final mark for your dissertation project after the defence. Defence days 15 Master International Communication Dissertation

16 Appendix 1. MIC Competences Core competencies: Final qualifications for the Master of International Communication International and intercultural orientation The Master of International Communication displays a high level of intercultural sensitivity and an international orientation by independently integrating this dimension into the professional work. Communicative capability The Master of international Communication communicates effectively within the range of different professional roles with all of the stakeholders of the organization. (managerial) Analytical capability The Master of International Communication takes initiative and responsibility for the development of knowledge and insights based on systematically detecting, investigating and analyzing signals relevant to the organization s objectives and reputation. Problem solving Capability The Master of International Communication takes a strategic, long term approach to identifying and solving complex open-ended communication problems and demonstrates self-direction and originality in a multidisciplinary environment. Implementing Capability The Master of International Communication takes responsibility for planning, implementing and evaluating of the effectiveness of communication policy, plans, projects and tools at strategic and tactical levels. Reflective capability The Master of International Communication critically reflects on the (developments within the) international communication profession, the social impact of the work and on his or her own personal development, professional role and responsibility. Innovative capability The Master of International Communication anticipates change and includes innovation as part of the decision making process. The competency described under the international and intercultural orientation includes a number of positive indicators reflecting the choices the consortium made. Globalisation is also about values, interconnectivity and democracy. International and intercultural orientation The Master of International Communication displays an international and intercultural orientation by independently integrating this dimension into the professional work by: a) building mutually beneficial relationships of trust and respect with different stakeholders across cultures. b) integrating fundamental human rights, values and ethical principles in their professional work, including: multi-culturalism, social responsibility, personal freedom, solidarity, equal opportunities, freedom of speech and personal responsibility. c) embracing the concept of civil society and global citizenship as a professional benchmark& applying this perspective to the strategic decision making process of the organisation. d) Working from the perspective of the societal concept of organizations 16 Master International Communication Dissertation

17 Appendix 2. Permission Form Dissertation Project Instructions for students: Submit this form to Dania Fang before the deadline (see Planning p.15) Include as an appendix an agreement between you and the client. An example agreement may be found in Appendix 7. If you don t have one yet, it can also be submitted after the deadline once you have a client company. Within 2 weeks after submission of this form, students are informed if they have permission to start. A 1 st and 2 nd supervisors are appointed to the students with permission to start by the university of their first supervisor. Student details Name: Student Number: University of first semester: University of Specialization Semester: Telephone: University address: Other address: Description of Dissertation Topic: Client details Name of organization: Internet address of organization: Department: Name of Company Supervisor: of Company Supervisor: Phone number of Company Supervisor: Job-title of Company Supervisor: ========================================================================================== Permission to start dissertation project, to be filled in by Chair Geert Hofstede Consortium. Above mentioned student has permission to start with his dissertation: O He or she completed the first semester O The proposed dissertation topic meets the standards of a Master s program in International Communication Date : Signature : 17 Master International Communication Dissertation

18 Appendix 3. Supervision log Instructions for students: 1 st supervisors provide professional guidance to the student during the dissertation process. Students have the right to 4 feedback moments from their 1 st supervisors, contact with the supervisor is initiated by the student In principle, student do not initiate contact with 2 nd supervisors Guidance involves at least: i. Feedback with the student on the draft Dissertation proposal ii. Feedback with the student on logical framework (problem statement and research questions), literature review and methodology, on request of the student iii. Feedback on the draft dissertation iv. Feedback on a topic to be specified by the student, on request of the student Please indicate below when you initiated contact with the 1 st supervisor, and when the 1 st supervisor provided feedback. As indication, a normal response time is around 1 week. Response reasonably can be expected within 14 days. This log is meant to support you in your communication with your supervisor. This form should be submitted at the same time as your final dissertation report. Please contact Dania Fang at r.fang@pl.hanze.nl if you run into any difficulties. Contact moment Draft Dissertation proposal Logical framework (problem statement, research questions) and methodology Draft dissertation Topic to be specified by the student Contact history between student and supervisor Date of feedback request (by student) Date of feedback (by supervisor) 18 Master International Communication Dissertation

19 Appendix 4. Assessment of Dissertation proposal Instructions for Supervisors: Within 2 weeks after students have submitted their research proposals (see Planning p.15), students are informed by their 1 st supervisor if their proposal is a pass. The 1 st supervisor is responsible for filling in this dissertation proposal assessment form with the 2 nd supervisor. In addition, the 1 st supervisor is responsible for submitting this form to Dania Fang r.fang@pl.hanze.nl. Please ensure it is signed by both supervisors. In case of missing signatures, please attach relevant correspondence between supervisors that can verify the assessment. Name of the Student: Student Number: Title of the Proposal: Date: Names of the Supervisors: 1 st : 2 nd : 1. Problem & Context Overview of research problem and relevant organizational context, statement of problem, research questions and research objectives, hypothesis. Description of contribution of the research to the solution of the problem and the impact on theory/practice. 2. Literature Review Relevant review of sources, understanding of key literature. Description of key concepts and constructs. Evidence of critical awareness/focus. MIC ASSESSMENT FORM DISSERTATION PROPOSAL Comments: Comments: 3. Research Design Consistency of research design. Choice, justification and relevance of methods and methodology, appropriateness of theoretical framework. Comments: 4. Presentation Structure, organization of presentation of material, academic writing expression, use of consistent referencing and bibliography, use of tables and figures. Comments: 19 Master International Communication Dissertation

20 5. Planning Realistic and feasible planning, overview of phases and activities relevant for the research. Comments: Overall Comments: OVERALL ASSESSMENT 1 st Supervisor: Pass Fail 2 nd Supervisor: Pass Fail Agreed Assessment by Both Signature: Signature: Supervisors: Pass Fail 20 Master International Communication Dissertation

21 Appendix 5. Assessment of Dissertation Project In the following sections, you will find: 1. MIC Assessment Form - Dissertation Report 2. MIC Assessment Form - Defence 3. MIC Dissertation Project Final Assessment Form 21 Master International Communication Dissertation

22 MIC Assessment Form Dissertation Report (1) Instructions for Supervisors: MIC Assessment Form - Dissertation Report The 1 st supervisor is responsible for filling in this assessment form with the second supervisor. In addition, the 1 st supervisor is responsible for submitting this form to Dania Fang r.fang@pl.hanze.nl. This form can be submitted together with the Defence Assessment form and the Final Assessment form after the defence. Please ensure it is signed by both supervisors. In case of missing signatures, please attach relevant correspondence between supervisors that can verify the assessment. GEERT HOFSTEDE CONSORTIUM MIC ASSESSMENT FORM DISSERTATION REPORT Name of the Student: Student Number: Title of the Dissertation: Date: Names of the Assessors: 1 st : 2 nd : Please tick the relevant box to indicate your assessment of the dissertation on each criterion A. CORE COMPETENCIES International and intercultural orientation: displays a high level of intercultural sensitivity and an international orientation by independently integrating this dimension into the professional work. Communicative capability: communicates effectively within the range of different professional roles with all of the stakeholders of the organization. Analytical capability: takes initiative and responsibility for the development of knowledge and insights based on systematically detecting, investigating and analysing signals relevant to the organization s objectives and reputation. Problem solving capability: takes a strategic, long term approach to identifying and solving complex open-ended communication problems and demonstrates selfdirection and originality in a multidisciplinary environment. Comments: Comments: Comments: Comments: 22 Master International Communication Dissertation

23 Implementing capability: takes responsibility and acts autonomously in planning, implementing and evaluating of the effectiveness of communication policy, plans, projects and tools at strategic and tactical levels. Reflective capability: reflects on the (developments within the) international communication profession, the social impact of the work and on his or her own personal development, professional role and responsibility. Innovative capability: anticipates change and includes innovation as part of the decision making process. Comments: Comments: Comments: <Continues on the next page> 23 Master International Communication Dissertation

24 Please tick the relevant box to indicate your assessment of the dissertation on each criterion (an example descriptor has been provided for guidance only i.e. not meant to be fully prescriptive). NB: This is to give an approximation along the grading continuum of how well you think each chapter has been presented B. CRITERIA Abstract: To include: 1) The main research objectives and hypotheses (if applicable) of the study 2) A synopsis of the methodology 3) An outline of the principal findings 4) A brief conclusion Introduction chapter: Thorough, but concise overview of the problem/ issue under investigation, including why it is a significant study and why/ how it may impact on theory and/ or practice. Research questions, formulated objectives, key variables (if relevant), and brief explanation of method included. Literature review: Appropriate academic sources consulted. Critical review, analysis and integration of the relevant literature(s). Definition and explanation of concepts and constructs. Evaluation and application of theoretical frameworks. Methodology: Demonstrate ability to identify and gather authoritative and relevant secondary and/or primary data source. Appropriate choice, justification, and application of method(s). Not undertaken OR Weak in all areas. A little weak, perhaps having missed out one area, but the student has attempted it. Sufficient, but needs improvement. Good, clear and concise. Perhaps requiring a little expansion. Work of very good standard. Work of an extremely high standard. An attempt has been All areas covered, but All areas covered to an made, but some areas some areas may be extremely high may be missing or weaker than others. standard. lacking in substance. Not identified OR Major omissions to the requirements as laid out in the dissertations guidelines. Not addressed OR Descriptive in nature, with many elements which are not relevant to the research questions. All areas covered, well-articulated. It is clear what the dissertation is about, and why it is being undertaken. All areas covered to a high standard. Very good justification of the significance and objectives of the study and its potential impact. Partially addressed, Reasonable amount of Sufficient literature Extensive literature although insufficient literature considered, considered and considered and analysed, literature considered some attempt at analysed, good critical evaluation of and this is not analysis, but lacking in integration of literature and theoretical critically analysed or critical focus and only literature and some framework developed. integrated into a partially integrated into critical content. coherent whole. a coherent whole. Overall critical review of relevant and up-todate literature. Breadth and depth of literature reviewed is appropriate, and integrated into a coherent whole. Not addressed OR Totally inappropriate, inconsistent, confused approach. Choice of method would work, but not necessarily the most appropriate. No/poor rationale given for method(s). Competent choice of appropriate method(s). A rationale is given for the method(s), but this is of an average standard, requiring greater explanation. Good choice of appropriate method(s) under the identified constraints of the study, with clear, unambiguous rationale given. Very good choice of appropriate method(s) under the identified constraints of the study, with very clear, unambiguous rationale given and strong justification of methods chosen. Excellent choice of appropriate (even innovative) method(s). Robust justification, with consideration of implications. 24 Master International Communication Dissertation

25 Analysis of Results: Evidence of systematic data collection and analysis. Logic and good format of results presentation. Discussion of results, conclusions and recommendations: Critical discussion of findings, linking to literature review where appropriate, and identifying contribution to knowledge base and/or practical and/or policy implications. Learning Statement: Critical analysis of self-learning process, linking to relevant literature where appropriate, identifying academic, personal and professional development needs, and integrating needs with action plans for future career. Not addressed OR No, or very little, original data presented. Insufficient original data presented, or data poorly presented and interpreted, which may be repetitive e.g. presenting the data in a table and then again in written text. Average presentation of data, room for improvement in organisation, and choice of presentation style. Appropriate choice of manner of presentation. Clear, concise, with no repetition. Very good presentation with a clear thematic organisation. Ability to synthesise generalisation from the material Excellent presentation. No repetition. Clear, concise, no repetition, with excellent organisation. Little discussion of Fair discussion of Good discussion of Very good discussion of findings, failure to findings, though lacks findings with links to findings with links to the relate findings to the critical and reflective the literature. Some literature. Very good critical literature review, thinking. Some critical and reflective and reflective thinking and a little contribution to contribution to thinking and a useful very useful contribution to knowledge/practice; knowledge/practice but contribution to knowledge/practice; Very Limited evidence of little abstract or knowledge/practice; good evidence of realistic, realistic, timely and creative thinking; some good evidence of timely and cost-effective cost-effective evidence of realistic, realistic, timely and recommendations and action recommendations timely and costeffective cost-effective plan or implementation. and action plan or recommendations implementations as recommendations and and action plan or appropriate. action plan or implementation. implementation. Not addressed OR No discussion of findings (repeats results) and negligible contribution to knowledge/practice Insufficient recommendations provided Excellent discussion. Evidence of original and creative thinking and a significant contribution to the academic literature and/or practice; shows excellence in developing realistic, timely and costeffective recommendations and action plan or implementation as appropriate. Descriptive account rather than evaluative. Limited or no reflection on learning gained. No or inappropriate reference to the theory. No real action plan for professional development included Mainly descriptive. Limited reflection on learning gained and its link to future development. Limited reference to relevant theory and limited actions to professional development. Some demonstration and evaluation of personal learning and its benefit for the future. Some reference to relevant theory. Relevant SMART actions documented. Good evaluation of personal learning and its benefit for the future. Good reference to relevant theory. Relevant SMART actions well documented and linked to future vision. Very good evaluation of personal learning and its benefit for the future. Very good reference to relevant theory. Relevant SMART actions well documented and linked to future vision Critical evaluation of a real engagement with the reflective learning process and its relevance for continuous professional development. Excellent reference to key theories. Relevant SMART actions well documented and linked to the future career communicating a real sense of progression into the future. 25 Master International Communication Dissertation