Planning Phase of the Bachelor´s Thesis (5cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

- thesis topic proposal
- definition of the thesis's mission and objective
- definition of the concepts related to the topic
- choice of reporting format and initiation of the writing process
- identifying the methods to be used in the thesis and planning the data management
- planning the implementation of the thesis and the use of time
- written reporting of the thesis plan
- completing the thesis contract

Objective

During the thesis planning phase, you will be able to create a thesis plan for your chosen topic.
You will be able to plan the objectives, implementation, and reporting of your thesis.

The aim of the thesis is to develop and demonstrate your ability to apply research knowledge and use selected methods to analyze and solve problems in working life.

Through the thesis, you will expand your expertise and demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge and skills in a practical professional task.

The thesis helps you develop professional knowledge and skills, a research-oriented and developmental approach to work, as well as collaboration, communication, and networking skills.

Competencies: Learning to learn, ethics, working life skills, proactive development.

Content

Topic proposal
Preliminary structure of a thesis
Commission agreement
Research permit application (if required)

Location and time

In WIHI, Moodle and Zoom in weeks 6-9. NOTICE: A kick-off session with the thesis coordinators in week 3 is strongly recommended.
The thesis process includes supervision sessions with the supervisors.
Return of the topic proposal n 1 FEBRUARY
Return of the thesis plan and agreement on 23 FEBRUARY.

Materials

Ojasalo, K., Moilanen, T. & Ritalahti, J. 2022. Methods for development work. New kinds of competencies in business operations. Helsinki: WSOYpro. (Available also as an ebook in LUC library)

The instructions and guidance materials for the course are available in the VAPA Thesis project  workspace in Moodle.

Teaching methods

- Self-directed study of content, materials and instructions and application to your own thesis
- Interactive and open sharing of knowledge with students, supervisors and commissioner in supervision meetings
- Return of written outputs of the thesis

Employer connections

The thesis is commissioned by a partner in working life, a project or a university of applied sciences. The student can obtain the assignment themselves (e.g. from their own workplace or internship) or make use of assignments received by the UAS or offered by the UAS projects.

Student workload

The scope of the planning phase of the thesis is 5 credits, or about 135 hours of work. The thesis requires a commitment to the learning process and self-initiated and systematic work on a weekly basis throughout the process.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Topic proposal approved
Thesis plan approved
First thesis phase approved

Qualifications

Completing the thesis planning phase requires the successful completion of the Research, Development, and Innovation Competence (5 ECTS) course or equivalent knowledge.

Further information

Prerequisite: Applied Research Methods and Advanced Communication Skills, 5 cr (or equivalent)