Thesis and SMART Objectives Flashcards

Flashcards based on lecture notes about thesis writing and SMART objectives.

Thesis

An explanation of claims that have been analyzed, evaluated, or tested.

Purpose of a Thesis

Demonstrate ability to think critically, demonstrate mastery in the subject matter, and evaluation via oral and written defenses.

Argumentative Thesis

Uses evidence to justify a claim, aiming to convince the audience.

Analytical Thesis

Evaluates an idea by breaking it down into components, providing a deeper understanding.

Expository Thesis

Explains a phenomenon.

Characteristics of a Strong Thesis Statement

Easy to understand, Relevant, Clear, Precise, Scientifically Sound, Objective.

A Thesis is NOT

not a question, not vague, not unverifiable, not a list

Start the Research Process

Read, Review, and Relate information to the project.

Hypothesis

A tentative explanation for an observation, grounded on scientific principles.

Experimentation

Vigorous testing, validation, and evaluation of research.

Research Question

central study question, addresses a research problem, based on research findings, not vague

Research Aim

What will be achieved, describes main goal and purpose, research intention, indicated what the study is about, realistic

Research Objectives

How the research aims will be specifically achieved, outlines specific steps, multiple objectives.

Common Problems with Writing Research Aims

Too ambitious, Common, Repetitive.

Action Words Used with Research Aims

Compare, Evaluate, Analyze, Establish, Verify, Assess.

Specific and measurable: Research Objectives

What actions will be performed and what evidence will indicate that the goal has been met.

Action Words Used with Research Objectives

Develop Investigate, Determine Examine, Utilize/Use.

Writing SMART Objectives

Specific: Is it focused?;

Measurable: How will progress and achievement of goals be measured?;

Achievable: Do you have the resources and support needed to accomplish goals?;

Realistic: Is this essential and practical for the project goals?; Timely: Can this be accomplished within the time frame?