|
Academic staff member responsible for the design of the course syllabus
(name, surname, academic title/scientific degree, email address and signature)
|
Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nargiza Alymkulova nalymkulova@epoka.edu.al
|
|
Main Course Lecturer (name, surname, academic title/scientific degree, email address
and signature) and Office Hours:
|
Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nargiza Alymkulova nalymkulova@epoka.edu.al
, Wednesday 15:00-16:30; Friday 10:30-12:00.
|
|
Second Course Lecturer(s) (name, surname, academic title/scientific degree, email
address and signature) and Office Hours:
|
NA
|
| Language: |
English
|
| Compulsory/Elective: |
Compulsory
|
| Study program: (the study for which this course is offered) |
Double Degree in Master of Science in Business Administration
|
| Classroom and Meeting Time: |
|
| Teaching Assistant(s) and Office Hours: |
NA
|
| Code of Ethics: |
Code of Ethics of EPOKA University
Regulation of EPOKA University "On Student Discipline"
|
| Attendance Requirement: |
|
| Course Description: |
The seminar is devoted to a detailed study of an individual
research theme on an assigned theoretical or applied business problem. Each student prepares a
paper during the semester. The student is advised by an instructor in his/her research and is expected
to write regular progress reports so that specific problems and aspects of his/her work can be
discussed.
|
| Course Objectives: |
The course prepares students for the Master Thesis writing process. It focuses on identifying a research topic, formulating research objectives, developing research questions and research hypotheses, and conducting an in-depth literature review. The course ensures that students establish a strong conceptual and theoretical foundation for their forthcoming thesis
|
|
BASIC CONCEPTS OF THE COURSE
|
| 1 |
Research Problem Identification: Understanding how to define and justify a research problem that is relevant, feasible, and academically significant.
|
| 2 |
Research Objectives and Questions: Developing clear, measurable objectives and corresponding research questions that guide the study’s direction.
|
| 3 |
Research Hypotheses: Formulating testable statements that link theoretical concepts to empirical investigation (when applicable).
|
| 4 |
Literature Review: Conducting a critical, systematic analysis of prior academic work to identify gaps and contextualize the current study.
|
| 5 |
Conceptual and Theoretical Frameworks: Building a logical structure that connects concepts, variables, and theories relevant to the research topic.
|
| 6 |
Research Design and Methodology: Selecting an appropriate design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) and outlining the research steps, data sources, and techniques.
|
| 7 |
Sampling Techniques: Understanding and applying appropriate strategies for selecting participants or data sources (probability and non-probability methods).
|
| 8 |
Data Analysis and Interpretation: Applying analytical methods (statistical or qualitative) consistent with research aims and ensuring valid, meaningful conclusions.
|
| 9 |
Academic Writing and Referencing: Producing scholarly texts following the EPOKA Thesis Guidelines and APA 7th edition style referencing standards.
|
| 10 |
Research Ethics and Integrity: Upholding ethical principles such as confidentiality, informed consent, and avoidance of plagiarism throughout the research process.
|
| Week |
Topics |
| 1 |
Introduction to the Seminar and overview (Topic exploration begins). of thesis requirements |
| 2 |
Defining the research area and selecting a topic (Topic justification) |
| 3 |
Formulating research objectives (Draft objectives) |
| 4 |
Developing research questions and hypotheses (Draft questions and hypotheses) |
| 5 |
Academic sources and database search techniques (Progress Report 1 due) |
| 6 |
Structuring and writing the literature review (Lecturer/Supervisor feedback & consultation) |
| 7 |
Developing the conceptual / theoretical framework (Literature review refinement). |
| 8 |
Designing the preliminary methodology :approach, variables, data plan (Draft methodology section). |
| 9 |
Review and feedback meetings (Progress Report 2 due – full draft submission) |
| 10 |
Submission of Final Seminar Paper (Evaluation begins). |
| 11 |
Presentation of Seminar findings (Lecturer/Supervisor comments) |
| 12 |
Final feedback and preparation for Thesis stage |
| 13 |
Preparation for Thesis |
| 14 |
Preparation for Thesis |
| 1 |
Identify and justify a feasible and researchable problem relevant to the field of Business Administration. |
| 2 |
Formulate precise research objectives, questions, and hypotheses consistent with the overall research aim. |
| 3 |
Conduct a comprehensive and critical review of relevant academic literature |
| 4 |
Analyze existing research to identify theoretical, conceptual, and methodological gaps. |
| 5 |
Develop an appropriate conceptual or theoretical framework for the proposed study. |
| 6 |
Design a preliminary research methodology aligned with the research objectives and data requirements. |
| 7 |
Demonstrate proficiency in academic writing, citation, and adherence to university thesis formatting guidelines. |
| 8 |
Apply ethical principles in research design, including confidentiality, informed consent, and data integrity |
| 9 |
Present research progress effectively through written reports and oral discussions with supervisors. |
| 10 |
Produce a coherent and well-structured Seminar Paper that serves as the foundation for the Master Thesis |
| No |
Program Competencies |
Cont. |
| Double Degree in Master of Science in Business Administration Program |
| 1 |
Integrate theories from business and economics to tackle business problem |
5 |
| 2 |
Inspire an open minded-attitude through continuous learning and team-work. |
5 |
| 3 |
Demonstrate ethical, social, and legal responsibilities in organizations |
5 |
| 4 |
Organize and pursue scientific research projects |
5 |
| 5 |
Enhance persuasive communication and presentation capabilities. |
5 |
| 6 |
Critically evaluate contemporary research in specific business areas. |
5 |
