
The thesis starts with the choice of the topic. First discuss the topic with the head of your specialisation and submit a topic proposal by email. Then enrol for the Applied Design Research course. Remember that the topic proposal must be discussed with the specialisation head before you enrol for the Applied Design Research course. Send the more detailed thesis plan you create as a course assignment to the specialisation head by email. Based on this thesis plan, you will be assigned a personal thesis advisor. NB! You do not enrol for thesis in your PSP.
The Wihi system is used to monitor and communicate the thesis process. The head of the specialisation will instruct you at which stage of the thesis process you log in to Wihi.
A carefully prepared plan is a good starting point for the implementation of the thesis. In general, the plan consists of the following elements:
- Introduction: The subject of the work i.e. the problem or need, and a brief introduction of the target organisation.
- Objectives: The expected results of the work for the organisation.
- Research questions: Which questions does the work answer?
- Theoretical framework: What are the previous studies, theories, concepts, literature and other possible materials relevant to the work?
- Methodology: the materials and tools that will be used to conduct the research and development, and a data management plan describing how the collected data will be handled and stored.
- Organisation: the unit, function or project of the target organisation to which the student's research and development relates (if the thesis is commissioned by an organisation)
- Timetable: Phasing and scheduling of the work.
- Risk mapping: Anticipating and preparing for problems.
The thesis is usually done for a client, but it can also be done without a client if necessary. The commissioning organisation will be involved in the brainstorming phase of the thesis topic. In addition, the commissioning organisation is often able to help define the objectives and timetable.
If possible, the student will make a contract for the thesis with a representative of the commissioning organisation. In addition, you need to agree on a possible research permit within the organisation. Commissioning contracts will be uploaded to Wihi.
In cases where the student's employer is Haaga-Helia, a commissioning contract is always made. If Haaga-Helia is the subject of the thesis or if the research is carried out for Haaga-Helia students, staff or alumni, the research must be approved in accordance with the attached research authorization guidelines. The research authorization application should be sent to [email protected].
When designing the plan, the student will also learn about research ethics (see 5. Research ethics).
Forms:
- Thesis topic proposal, Master's Thesis
- Thesis plan, Master's Thesis
- Commissioning contract, Master's Thesis
- Template for Consent Form, Master's Thesis
- Template for Research Announcement, Master's Thesis
- Research Authorization Application, Master's Thesis
- An agreement template on a joint controllership of the thesis
Instructions:
Instructions for handling trade secrets and confidential information in Master Theses