Assignment Task

Aims And Objectives

The Dissertation requires students to apply the techniques and knowledge acquired from the taught courses. Students choose their own topic and must show that they: ·

• have a good knowledge of the relevant literature on their chosen topic;
• can identify an interesting question associated with that topic and analyze this question either in a new way or with new data;
• can demonstrate a good grasp of techniques (statistical, numerical or theoretical) relevant for analysing the question;
• can present the results of their analysis in a clear and convincing manner,

There are three routes students might choose for the dissertation. Many choose to extend their Econometrics project; some develop a topic from one of their option courses in conjunction with the option course lecturer; occasionally some do an independent topic in consultation with a member of staff. Any subject that relates to material covered in the Programme is admissible, but it is generally sensible to stick to projects that contain a substantial amount of statistical or numerical analysis. Theoretical projects are more difficult although occasionally students are able to produce good work of this type. Purely institutional topics are not permitted.

On data, it is important not to be too ambitious. Often students spend inordinate amounts of time collecting large datasets and then find they have no time to perform analysis. Interesting analysis motivated by some genuine, substantive questions earns high marks. Whatever is done, it is important that students time their work realistically.

Structure Of A Dissertation

All dissertations should have:

1. a well-defined research question about the topic;

2. a review of the relevant literature showing familiarity with recent published research;

3. a review of the theoretical issues relevant to the topic;

4. a review of the empirical evidence relevant to the topic. This may (but need not) include econometrics. It could look at history, institutions, case studies, etc. Even theoretical dissertations need some empirical context. If students do econometrics they need to follow the econometrics project rules, provide data, etc.

5. clear conclusions which discuss the extent to which they have answered the question posed;

6. adequate referencing and a clear academic literary style.