The Research Proposal & Thesis Format [Draft] - Dec 2010

8/12/2019 The Research Proposal & Thesis Format [Draft] - Dec 2010

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THE MAKERERE RESEARCH PROPOSAL FORMAT1.0 Definition of Proposal

This is a written presentation of an intended research specifying theproblem, the purpose, scope/objectives, methodology, references and

the financial plan/budget. A synopsis is an outline of the researchproposal of 3-5 pages length (including references) which is currentlyrequired for provisional admission to Ph.D and other doctoral degreestudies at Makerere University.

2. Components of a Research Proposal2.1 Title / TopicThe title should accurately reflect the scope and content of the study.In addition, it should be concise, simple and catchy in not more than 20words. The title should be informative/descriptive yet discrete andcontain the key words of the proposal. Do not use terms like "Researchinto...", "A Study of...", etc

2.2 Background / IntroductionThis section provides evidence and conditions of the existing situationshighlighting the gap(s) to make the reader feel the urgency of theproblem, the need to study it in order to solve the problem orcontribute to its solution. (About 600 words, 1.5 line spacing doublespaced)

2.3 Research Problem / Statement of the Problemi. Presents the reason behind the proposal i.e. what will change

when this research is done or what would happen if the researchis not done

ii. Problem is an existing negative state not absence of a solutioniii. Refers to what has been detected and needs a solution in the

practical or theoretical world.iv. Should clearly state the nature of the problem and its known or

estimated magnitude / extent.v. Link the problem to the national development

priorities/framework (NDP), the regional (e.g. AU) and theGlobal Development Agenda (MDGs)

vi. Should be concise and brief (not more than 1 page)


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2.4 General Objective / Aim/PurposeRefers to the general intention of the research. Should spell put whatthe research is supposed to accomplish.

2.5 Specific ObjectivesThese are specific aims / objectives arising directly from the generalobjective / purpose / aim of the study. For each specific objective youmust have a method to attempt to achieve it.

2.6 Significance / Justification/ImportanceThis refers to the relevance of study in terms of academic contributionsand practical use that might be made of the findings. It should reflecton knowledge creation, technological or socio-economic value to thecommunity.

2.7 Theoretical / Conceptual Frameworki) Theoretical FrameworkIs an examination of existing or self-formulated theories in relationto the researchers objectives.

Or ii) Conceptual FrameworkIs a scheme of concepts (variables) which a researcher willoperationalise in the study in order to achieve the set objectives.

The framework is normally presented graphically (dramatically)

N.B. These are normally requirements for Masters and Ph.D Proposalswhere applicable.

2.8 Scope where applicable)The scope provides for the boundary of the research in terms of depthof investigation, content, and sample size, geographical and theoreticalcoverage.

2.9 Literature Reviewi.This section deals with the analysis of existing literature on the

subject with the objective of revealing contributions,weaknesses and gaps.


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ii.The Literature Review should be according to the themes of thestudy and should reflect the objectives, Hypotheses, methodsand research questions.

iii. Citation should be in accordance with approved format. (see

Guidelines for writing manuscripts - Appendix I)

2.10 Hypotheses / Postulates / Research Questions where applicable)These are investigative assumptions, which guide the study. In case ofhypotheses, they should be testable. (Hypothesis is usually null oralternate, whichever poses the investigative question).

N.B. Hypotheses can come immediately after Literature Review orSpecific Objectives.

2.11 MethodologyThis is a detailed description of selected methodology and should bepresented in unambiguous terms.

The section comprises:(i) Research design, which describes the nature and pattern the

research intends to follow e.g. whether it is qualitative orquantitative, historical, descriptive survey, experimental orquasi experimental and location (optional).

(ii) Description of the geographical area and where population of thestudy exists (optional).(iii) Description of the population from which samples will beselected.

(iv) Sampling strategies, by which the researcher will selectrepresentative elements / subjects from the population.

(v) Data collection methods; including instruments and proceduresto be used in the research described.

(vi) Data quality control, which refers to reliability and validity ofinstruments.

(vii) Measurements, which refer to the formulae or scales in thestudy.

(viii) Data analysis, which involves organisation and interpretation ofthe data generated.

Note: Both raw data and the analysed form be kept both electronicallyand hardcopy for further reference later.

Follow the following steps in preparing data for analysis:


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(i) Receive the raw data sources(ii) Create electronic data base from the raw data sources(iii) Clean/Edit the database(iv) Correct and clarify the raw data sources(v) Finalise database(vi) Create data files from the data bases

2.12 Ethical ConsiderationThese include getting clearance from the ethical body (Faculty Ethicscommittee/Uganda National Council for Science and Technology UNCST) and consent of the respondent. Ethics of the research hererefers to the moral justification of the investigation or intervention; asregards the minimal abuse, disregard, safety, social and psychologicalwell being of the person and / or community. Makerere UniversityCollege of Health Science Research and Ethical Review Committee isavailable to handle issues of ethics in research.

2.13 Gender ConsiderationThe section presents the gender issues addressed by the study and howthey will be handled in the analysis.

2.14 Limitations / Anticipated Problems Optional)This refers to anticipated constraints imposed bymethods/location/situation of research. Potential sources of bias in theproposed study are presented here. However, these must not be seen toprevent the study from being carried out, otherwise it will not start.

The limitations are major considerations before embarking on a studyto ascertain the feasibility of accomplishment.

2.15 ReferencesThis is a list of all works cited in the proposal and should be writtenaccording to the approved format. The approved format is APA FifthEdition (Appendix I).

2.16 AppendicesComprises of the budget, work plan/time framework, explanatory notesand instruments.

i) BudgetThis is the financial plan for implementation of the research.It should be clear, realistic and reasonable (affordable)It should be itemised according to the following:

-Equipment-Stationery


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-Materials e.g. nails, wood, chemicals etc.-Travel-Subsistence-Research Assistance-Services (Secretarial, Photocopying, Printing, Binding etc)-Other purposes (Specify)e.g10% Research honorarium (not for those doing higher

degrees)-15% Institutional Administrative fee/Overhead costs (5%to the SGS, 3% to the, Department, 3% to the Faculty and4% retained at the center as provided for on the UniversityResearch & Innovations Policy, 2008available on theUniversity Intranet at(http://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdf).

ii) Time Framework/Work PlanThis is the schedule / time-table of activities covering theperiod over which the research is to be implemented with dueregard to budgetary consideration as well. It could bepresented in tabular form or in a Ghant chart. It is avaluable guide for evaluation of a research progress.

iii) Explanatory NotesThey include research approval letters, maps, and lists ofareas to be visited.

iv) InstrumentsThese are details of tools used in the research e.g.Equipment, questionnaire, interview schedule, scales andtests etc.

v) Length of Proposals for:Mastersup to 15 pages excluding appendicesPh.D25 pages

Note: The proposal is first submitted to your Faculty Higher degrees andResearch Committee for evaluation and approved before it isforwarded to the Graduate School for final approval and recording.

A Ph.D degree research proposal must be vetted by the candidatesdoctoral committee and their views along withFaculty/School/Institute Higher Degrees and Research Committeeminutes must be forwarded to the Graduate School. A letter fromthe designated/approved supervisor certifying that all
http://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdfhttp://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdfhttp://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdfhttp://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdfhttp://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdfhttp://policies.mak.ac.ug/downloads/MAKERERE_UNIVERSITY_RESEARCH_POLICY.pdf


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recommended amendments in the proposal have been addressedmust accompany the Faculty/School/Institute Higher Degrees andResearch Committee approved minutes.

3.0 RESEARCH REPORT, THESIS/DISSERTATION FORMAT3.1. Definition of Report

Is a detailed account of the study

3.2. Research Report Comprises of:The preliminaries (pages numbered in Roman numerals).

a) The Preliminaries to consist of:-(i) Title page (Not numbered)(ii) Declaration (compulsory for certificate & Degree research)(iii) Copyright statement(iv) Dedication (optional)(v) Acknowledgement(vi) Table of Contents(vii) List of Tables (where applicable)(viii) List of illustrations (Figures) (where applicable)(ix) Abbreviations (Acronyms) (where applicable)(x) Abstract

b) The Body/Text Page numbers in Arabic numerals)i) For the dissertation published as a Monograph

The text consists of:1. Introduction2. Literature Review and/or Theoretical Analysis3. Methodology/Materials and Methods4. Presentation of results/findings5. Discussion of results/findings6. Conclusions, Summary and Recommendations.

ii) Dissertation published as papersThe text consists of:

1. General Introduction2. Literature Review and/or Theoretical Analysis3. General Methodology/Materials and Methods4. Chapters as standalone papers with:

i) Introduction


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ii) Materials and Methodsiii) Resultsiv) Discussionv) Conclusion

5. General Discussion

6. Conclusion7. Recommendations

c) The Bibliographyd) The Appendices1) PRELIMINARY PAGES EXCEPT TITLE PAGE AREPAGINATED USING ROMAN NUMERALS i x) ETCSHOULD INCLUDE:

Example of Title Pages - both are hypothetical Thesis andDissertation)i). Title

The title page should have the title of the study/thesis/dissertationin CAPITALS; full names of the researcher/candidate,qualifications already attained and their awarding Universities.Where the report is submitted for an award of Makerere University,the candidate must state whether the THESIS is submitted for theaward or the DISSERTATION is submitted to the Graduate School

in partial fulfilment of the award of the degree of Master or Ph.D orMD or LLD of Makerere University. This textshould appear in themiddle of the page. All information on the title page must becentred.


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ART AND CULTURE IN BUGANDA MARRIAGECEREMONIES

BY

KIZITO, J. BA FINE ARTS) Mak)

A DISSERTATION* SUBMITTED TO THEGRADUATE SCHOOL IN PARTIALFULFILMENT FOR THE AWARD OFMASTER OF ARTS DEGREE OFMAKERERE UNIVERSITY

* A Dissertation is an original contribution by a Scholar in partialfulfilment of an Academic Award by course work and research (forboth Masters or PhD Degree)

*This also applies for the award of the Degree of Philosophy andother Doctorates of Makerere University that incorporates coursework

One inch margin be incorporated


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ii) Declaration For Diploma/Degrees)(i) This is a pronouncement by the candidate that This study

is original and has not been published and/or submitted forany other degree award to any other University before.The

researcher must append their signature just below thisstatement

(ii) Approval by Supervisors. The approved supervisors have tosign the declaration page following the statement that:This thesis/dissertation has been submitted for examinationwith the approval of the following supervisors: e.g.

Prof. L. Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza,LLB, LLM, PhDDate

(iii) Copyright Reserved by the author,Represented by

iii) Dedication Optional)This mentions name(s) to which the research is dedicated.

iv) AcknowledgementThis entails recognition of mentors, colleagues, individuals,sponsors and institutions which supported the research.

v) Table of ContentsThis is the list of headings, subheadings starting with declarationpaginated at (i) and their corresponding page numbers. However,the title page is not numbered.

vi) List of TablesLists tables in the report/thesis/dissertation with the correspondingpages. Tables are useful in summarising results but must notdistort them

vii) List of Illustrations/Figures/Plates/PicturesLists caption the above used in the report and theircorresponding pages These forms present methods and results ofidentification in pictorial form and again should not be distorted.

.


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viii) List of AppendicesLists of appendices in the document and their corresponding pages.

ix) List of AbbreviationsRefers to abbreviations used in the report other than those

commonly used.

x) Abstract/Executive SummaryThis entails a brief summary of the report, preferably not exceeding300 words. The abstract/summary highlights the type of study, thepurpose/aim, objectives, methodology, major findings andconclusion.

Note: The approved electronic copy of the abstract and the wholedissertation/Thesis as separate documents should also be submittedon a virus free Compact Disc (CD) to the Graduate School forabstract publications as you submit the hard copy of yourthesis/dissertation as well.

2. THE TEXT SHOULD INCLUDE:a) Introduction:

This is Chapter 1 and provides and presents the background to thestudy, statement of the problem, purpose/aim, objectives,significance/justification.

b) Literature Review:This appears as Chapter 2. Same as in Research Proposal but ingreater details. (Any relevant Literature may be cited in any of thechapters. In some cases there may not be a need for a separateChapter on Literature Review and/or Theoretical Analysis)

c) General Methodology/Materials and Methods as for Chapter 3 ofthe proposal)d) The successive chapters depend on the type of dissertation

i) MonographResults can be presented together with discussion as Chapter 4* ortwo separate chapters i.e.

(i) Presentation and Interpretation of Results as Chapter 4.(ii) Discussion of results as Chapter 5.

ii)Chapters as standalone papers


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Each chapter (usually addressing each objective) has anIntroduction, Materials and Methods, Results, Discussion andConclusion

e) Conclusion: Summary, research based outcomes,recommendations, and the way forward, should come as the lastchapter depending on how one has presented the precedingchapters.

NB: However, a study may be split into more than the above chapters if theresearcher so wishes. Where there is more than one major result, thismay be presented in separate chapters

f) ReferencesThe reference list at the end of each manuscript provides theinformation necessary to identify and retrieve each source. Unlike abibliography, a reference list cites only the works which were citedin the text. Elements of references differ according to the type ofpublication. See the page on annotated examples of references.

g) Citation typeThe preferred mode of citation is the American Psychological

. Association (APA) Sixth Edition. (If respective disciplines prefer adifferent citation mode, they should inform the Graduate School forincorporation). See Appendix I.

h) Appendices:These comprise of instruments, maps, introductory letters and someessential raw data, personnel met and research approval letters aswell as areas visited.

NOTE: The thesis/dissertation is presented in a monograph form as one

text. However when it becomes necessary and applicable it may bepresented as a compilation of several published or publishablepapers with the first chapter handling all the general introductory

issues in monograph form.

Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for reportpreparation, editing and spell checking should enhance the qualityof the. Appropriate computer data analysis packages should beused.


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The dissertation/thesis is spiral bound for examination but hardcover bound in black colour with golden letters bearing what iscontained in a title page in the front cover. The ridge of the reportwill contain the degree award, name of awardee and year of theaward e.g. M.A Dissertation Kizito, B. 2001 (in golden letters).

Each approved dissertation/thesis will be cross-checked forcorrectness by the supervisor, the examiners, Viva Voce/DoctoralCommittee and finally at the Graduate School on submission.

Appendix IGUIDELINES FOR MANUSCRIPT PREPARATION[Adopted from the 6th Edition of the Publication Manual of the AmericanPsychological Association APA), 2010]ABBREVIATIONS

Abbreviations can be avoided, but necessary abbreviations must be writtenout completely on first appearance and followed immediately by theabbreviation in parentheses. Thereafter, the abbreviation is used in textwithout further explanation or alternation between the abbreviated and fullforms of the term.

The National Development Plan (NDP) is the government framework forsocio-economic transformation to prosperity in Uganda(UNDP, 2010).

Abbreviations that appear in the dictionary as words (and are not labelledabbreviation) may be used without being written in full such as AIDS, ESP,HIV, IQ, REM.

Standard Latin abbreviations may appear in parenthetical material butEnglish translations should be used in non-parenthetical material. Examplesare: compare for cf., example for e.g., and so forth for etc., and that is for i.e.

BIASAvoid bias of language regarding gender, racial or ethnic identity, disabilitiesor age.

CITATIONSAPA uses the author - date method of citation. For example:


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The last name of the author and the date of publication are inserted inthe text in the appropriate place.

When referencing or summarizing a source, provide the author andyear.

When quoting or summarizing a particular passage, include thespecific page or paragraph number, as well.

When quoting in your paper, if a direct quote is less than 40 words,incorporate it into your text and use quotation marks. If a direct quoteis more than 40 words, make the quotation a free-standing indentedblock of text and DO NOT use quotation marks.

Citation of one work by one author:In one developmental study (Smith, 1990), children learned... OR

In the study by Smith (1990), primary school children... OR

In 1990, Smiths study of primary school children

Citation of works by multiple authors: When a piece of work has 2 authors cite both names every time you

reference the work in the text.

(Owens & Munene, 1994). The ampersand (&) is used in place of andwhen the full citation is within parenthesis

When a work has three to five authors cite all the author names thefirst time the reference occurs and then subsequently include only thefirst author followed by et al. For example:

First citation: Masserton, Slonowski, and Slowinski (1989) state that...Subsequent citations: Masserton et al. (1989) state that...

For 6 or more authors, cite only the name of the first author followedby et al. and the year.

Citation of works by no identified author:When a resource has no named author, cite the first few words of thereference entry (usually the title). Use double quotation marks around thetitle of an article, chapter, or Web page. Italicize the title of a periodical,book, brochure, or report. For example:


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The site seemed to indicate support for homeopathic drugs (MedicalMiracles, 2009).

The brochure argues for homeschooling (Education Reform, 2007).Treat reference to legal materials such as court cases, statutes, and

legislation like works with no author.

Citation of two or more works in the same parenthetical citation:Citations of two or more works in the same parentheses should be listed inthe order they appear in the reference list (i.e., alphabetically, thenchronologically), for example:

Several studies (Jones & Powell, 1993; Peterson, 1995, 1998; Smith, 1990)suggest that...

Citation of specific parts of a sourceAlways give the page number for quotations or to indicate information from aspecific table, chart, chapter, graph, or page. The word page is abbreviatedbut not chapter. For example:

The painting was assumed to be by Matisse (Powell, 1989, Chapter 6), butlater analysis showed it to be a forgery (Murphy, 1999, p. 85).

If, as in the instance of online material, the source has neither visibleparagraph nor page numbers, cite the heading and the number of theparagraph following it. This allows the reader to locate the text in the source.For example:

The patient wrote that she was unimpressed by the doctors bedside manner(Smith, 2006, Hospital Experiences section, para. 2).

COPYRIGHTWritten permission to use previously published text, tables, figures, or testsshould be available on request and acknowledged in reference to the text,

table, figure, plate or tests using asterisk.

FOOTNOTESBecause they are distracting to readers, footnotes should be included onlywhen necessary. In most cases, important information is best presented inthe text, not in a footnote.


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ORGANISING AND STRUCTURING DOCUMENTS WITH HEADINGS:Documents are organised and structured by dividing them into differentlevels. Levels are divided into sections. The sections are given headings.Divisions or sections of the same importance are given same headings. Forexample, research proposals are usually divided into Background to the

study, Literature Review, and Methodology. These three sections belong tothe same level and are equally important.

All documents should have a hierarchical (top-down) arrangement. Eachsection or divisions of the document should begin with the highest levelpossible, then lower and the lowest levels should be given. The headings(titles) given should also begin with the highest level possible, then lower andthe lowest headings should be given.

APA (2010, P.91)proposed five levels into which documents can be divided orsectioned. These levels are illustrated and described below:

Centred Uppercase Heading ____________Level 5Centred Uppercase and Lowercase Heading___________Level 1Centred, Underlined, Uppercase and Lowercase Heading........Level 2Flush Left, Underlined, Uppercase and Lowercase SideHeading.Level 3Indented, Underlined, Lowercase paragraph________Level 4heading ending with a period

The highest level is the fifth level. All the letters are in uppercase (capitalletters). It is typed on the central axis of the page. If the title does not fit onone line of the page, it is then typed as an inverted pyramid on the linesbelow.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROSE AND POSIE OF MODERN LITERATUREIN CONTEMPORARY UGANDAThe next level is called the first level. The initial letters of words are inuppercase with the exceptions of the conjunctions, Articles and Prepositions(CAPS). It is also typed on the central axis of the page.

Understanding the Prose and Poise of Modern Literature in ContemporaryUgandaThe second level is typed exactly in the same way as the first level exceptthat it is underlined or italicised.


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Understanding the Prose and Poise of Modern Literature in ContemporaryUgandaOr

Understanding the Prose and Poise of Modern Literature in ContemporaryUgandaThe third level is typed in the same way as the second level. Initial letters arein uppercase except the CAPs and underlined or italicised. This is not typedon the central axis of the page but flushed on the left i.e. typed starting fromthe left side of the page.

Understanding the Prose and Poise of Modern Literature in ContemporaryUgandaOrUnderstanding the Prose and Poise of Modern Literature in ContemporaryUgandaThe fourth level is the lowest level. The text is indented, underlined and onlythe letter of the first word is in uppercase. It is part of the paragraph andends with a period (full stop).

All the levels are rarely used in a single document. The levels of headings

adopted depend on the size and complexity of the documents. For example,most research proposals usually adopt three levels, namely; First, third, andfourth levels.

The headings (titles/of the sections) are given first level. Typing is on thecentral axis, initial letters are in uppercase with the exceptions of the CAPS(i.e. to and the).

The next may be level three. The headings are flushed on the left (side-bred),initial letters are in uppercase with exceptions of CAPS and are underlined.The next lower level is the fourth level where the headings are indented, they

are part of the paragraph, underlined and end with a period (full stop).

The arrangement appears as shown below:Background to the study_______________(level 1)Background to the ProblemStatement of the ProblemObjectives (Level 3)


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ScopeSignificance of the StudyDefinition of conceptsStrategies Planned series of actions for achieving the aim.HIV.This is a virus, which causes AIDS. In Africa it is mainly transmittedsexually.

Literature Review (Level 1)

Methodology (Level 1)Larger documents may be divided into more levels. For example,dissertations and books can be divided into Level Five, Level three and level4. Then they are produced as shown here.

BACKGROUND LEVEL 5)Background to the Study_________(Level 1)Statement of the ProblemObjectives Level 3ScopeSignificance of the StudyDefinition of key conceptsStrategies:Planned series of actions etc. Level 4HIV.This is a virus, which causes AIDS etc.LITERATURE REVIEW: LEVEL 5)

APA (1994, P.91) reports that if a writer finds it difficult to adopt the APAheadings, different styles of headings could be used provided they arerecognised. Headings should not be labelled with numerical labels.

HEADINGSManuscripts generally use from one to five levels of headings:

Centred Uppercase and Lowercase HeadingLevel 1Centred, Underlined, Uppercase and Lowercase HeadingLevel 2Flush Left, Underlined, Uppercase and LowercaseLevel 3Side Heading, Indented, Underlined, Lowercase paragraph..LevelHeading ending with a periodLevel 4CENTRED UPPERCASE HEADINGS.Level 5


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If only one level of heading is needed, use level 2. If two levels of headings arenecessary, use levels 2 and 4. if three levels are needed, use 2, 4 and 5. Forfour levels, use levels 2-5. Numbering of headings is unwanted.

MARGINLeave uniform margin at the top, bottom, and both sides of every page. Oneinch (1) is the default setting on most computers, and is sufficient for themarginal instructions and queries which may need to be written by an editor.

1

1NUMBERSUse words to express numbers one through nine, and numerals to expressnumbers 10 or higher, e.g. One gram and 10 mls of water were mixed. Thereare exceptions, as in the use of tables or the beginning of sentences. (Table 1or Ten mls of water was added to one gram of salt....).

PAGE NUMBERSPreliminary pages must be numbered with Roman numerals (i, ii, iii etc). Thetitle page should not be numbered. Arabic numerals begin with the main textof the report i.e. from the Introduction/Background section and thennumbered consecutively. All pages are numbered in the lower center position.

PARAGRAPHSEach paragraph should be indented uniformly, usually five spaces or one-halfinch. A paragraph should be longer than a single sentence but not beyond amanuscript page.

QUOTATIONSShort quotations of fewer than 40 words may be incorporated in the text andenclosed with double quotations mark (Nsibambi, 1995, p.1). Quotations of40 words or more may be typed double space and indented five spaces fromthe left without quotation marks. Every quotation must include the author,year and page number in the citation and a complete reference in thereference list.

TEXT 11


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REFERENCESThe reference list at the end of each manuscript provides the informationnecessary to identify and retrieve each source. Unlike a bibliography, areference list cites only the works which were cited in the text. Elements ofreferences differ according to the type of publication.

SECONDARY SOURCESWhenever possible, original sources should be used. If a work is cited whichwas discussed in a secondary source, then the secondary source will beincluded in the reference list cited in the text. (According to Byaruhanga andKwebiha (as cited in Ojok, Wafula, & Eyoku, 1995), this is true).

SPACINGManuscripts should be double-spaced throughout, which includes allquotations and references.

FONT TYPE AND SIZEFor uniformity, use Times New Roman font size 12 throughout the text

TABLES AND FIGURESTables and figures are effective when a large amount of data is to bepresented in a small space. Tables also have limitations and should bereserved for crucial data that is directly relevant and for text that would bedense with numbers. The APA Publication Manual has useful information onpreparing tables. They should not repeat what is clearly shown on figures oralready described in the text. The Table caption should be placed at the top

while the figure caption are placed at the bottom of the respective figure.

TITLESManuscript titles should be a concise statement of the main topic and shouldidentify the actual variables or issues under investigation, and therelationship between them. The recommended length is 10 to 12 words, butnot more than 20 words.

EXAMPLES OF REFERENCES1. American Psychological Association, (2010). Publication Manual (6th ed.).

Washington, D.C: Author.[Alphabetise Corporate Authors by first significant word of the name.when the author and publisher are identical, use the word author as nameof publisher. Note the way editions are written(ed)]


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2. Barker, B.L., Jones, W. Oscar, B. B. & Harris, D. P. (1983). Effect ofintertribal delays on retardation of learning. Journal of ExperimentalPsychological: Animal Behaviour Processes, 9, 581-593.[Journal article with three to five authors cite all authors in the firsttextual citations, then subsequent citations may use the surname of the

first author followed by et al.(Baker, et al., 1983)].

3. Winston, B.L. Reinhatt, M.L. Sacker, J.R Gottlieb, W. Oscar, B.B. &Harris, D.P. (1983). Effect of intertribal delays on retardation of learning.Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behaviour Processes, 27.581593.

4. Carver, H.C. Jr. & White, C. (1981, December). Do babies sing a universalsong? Psychology Today, pp.70 76. [Magazine articles include month ofissue.]

5. Fujita, J.& Misumi, M. (1982). Effects of organisational development inmarket organisation. Japanese Journal of Experimental SocialPsychology. 21: 93 111. (From Psychological Abstracts, 1982, 68,

Abstract No. 11474)[If only the abstract is used as the source, cite all the collection ofabstracts in parentheses at the end.]

6. Grant, S. Jr. & Cannon, C.R (Eds.), (1960). Billingual education: A Wholelanguage approach. New York; Praeger. [Edited book, both city ofpublication (New York) and publisher Praeger listed.]

7. Heath, J.G. & Fraser, F.C (Eds.). (1977 - 1978). Handbook of teratology(Vols. 1 New York: Plenum Press. [Several volumes of an edited book. Intext, use the parenthetical citation: (Heath & Fraser, 19771978.)]

8. Merman, A. S. & Kniskern, D.P. (1981). Family therapy outcome.Merman, A.S. & Kniskern, D.P. (Eds.) Handbook of family therapy (pp.742 -775). New York: Avon. [A Chapter in an edited book].

9. Musisi, J.F.G. (1997). Academic achievement as a function of careerguidance. Unpublished masters thesis, Makerere University, Kampala,

Uganda.[If a dissertation does not appear in Dissertation abstracts international,use this format.]

10.PLE results are out. (1996, March 19). New Vision, p.1 (Newspaperarticles with no author are alphabetised by the first significant word inthe title and cited in text with a short title: (PLE Results, 1996).)


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11.Annon (2002). General Information Brochure. School of PostgraduateStudies, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda. (Anon is used to refer toan anonymous author(s) of a public/Government document.)

Appendix IIMakerere University procedures for proposal registration and examinationa) Research Project/Masters degree dissertation proposal

(i)A student having identified a researchable idea, consults withpotential supervisor/advisor/mentor for further development.

Or

(ii) Academic member of staff having identified a researchable areaprobably with funding, identifies a student who may be interestedto develop it into a researchable topic, or the student to carry outthe research project with the academic member of staff.

(iii) For PhD Students: After consultation with potential supervisors,develops and presents the proposal to the Doctoral Committee forapproval. The Doctoral Committee then submits theirrecommendation to the Faculty Higher Degrees and Research

Committee (DHDRC) through the graduate degree coordinator ofthe Department.

(iv) For Masters Student: After consultation with potentialsupervisor(s), presents the proposal to the Department and isadvised to improve on it with the assistance of a nominatedsupervisor. In situations where Department capacity is high, thepresentation of the proposal ends here and copies only are sent tothe Faculty Office and the Graduate School Office. Otherwise, therevised proposal is presented to the Faculty Higher Degrees andResearch Committee (DHDRC) through the graduate degree

coordinator of the Department for approval.

(v) Faculty Higher Degrees and Research Committee (FHDRC)discusses the proposal and makes one of the following decisions:-

Approval without amendments


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Approval with amendments to the satisfaction of thenominated supervisor. The supervisor certifies to the FacultyHigher Degrees and Research Committee (FHDRC) to theeffect that concerns of the FHD&RC have been addressed/incorporated and acceptability of changes. Faculty Higher

Degrees and Research Committee (FHDRC) approves for theresearch to proceed.

Recommend resubmission until approved.(vi) The Faculty Higher Degrees and Research Committee (FHDRC)

forwards signed minutes together with the approved proposal andnames of nominated supervisors to the Director, School of GraduateStudies (who is the Secretariat to Board of Research &Publications) for noting, collating of approved proposal andappointment of the supervisor(s).

(vii) This is now an officially approved proposal subject to supervisionand examination for the Doctorate/Masters Degree award.

(viii) Progress reports are presented every six months. For mastersdegree students at least one progress report is required if they aredoing a dissertation as a partial requirement for the award. Asecond report is at submission where the supervisor(s) approve theexamination of the dissertation.

For plan B (Masters degree by extended course work research

project,) only one progress report at the time of submission forexamination is needed.

(ix) The candidate notifies the School of Graduate Studies three monthsin advance on the Intention to Submithis/her dissertation.

(x) dissertation is submitted for examination to the School of GraduateStudies after endorsement by the supervisor(s)

(xi) Graduate School then requests the Faulty Higher Degrees andResearch Committee (FHDRC) to nominate examiners (2 internal

and one external to the university) and the Viva Voce panel.

Note: The External Examiner must have taught in a University orpublished in the area of study, may have supervised at least aMasters degree dissertation before and is of at the rank of SeniorLecturer standing or a Ph.D degree holder or equivalent.


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(xii) The Graduate School then appoints examiners (one External to theUniversity and two Internal Examiners (who are not supervisors).The role of examiners is to ascertain that the research work donefulfils the expected University standards for a Masters degreeaward, and that was/or was not done by the candidate.

b) Doctoral Degree Programme by Research alone(i) An applicant is considered for provisional admission upon

submission of the following to the Graduate School: A filled in application form in duplicate. Academic credentials. Three letters of reference. A 3 5 page synopsis outlining the area of research interest.

The synopsis must have a title, a brief introduction, thestatement of the problem, objective(s) of the research,significance/justification, hypotheses/research questions andminimal literature and outlining the methodology on how

you intend to answer your research questions. There shouldbe a list of the minimal references used in your literaturereview. The application is accompanied by a receipt asevidence of having paid application fee or any other evidenceof having paid such money in Uganda shillings.

(ii) Provisional admission (up to one year) to Doctoral Degree studies atMakerere University.

The Faculty/Institute/School Higher Degrees and Research Committeeconsiders an application for provisional admission taking intoconsideration the following:-

If the topic is researchable (especially the statement of theproblem)

If there is a suitable supervisor(s) in the Faculty/School orelsewhere in the University

Whether the applicant is suitably qualified to undertake thesaid study based on background, qualifications and relevantpublications if any.

Whether the applicant is suitable for PhD studies atMakerere but could be assigned another topic for research ifadmitted which could be developed into an acceptableresearch proposal.

Whether the University has the requisite facilities to enablethe applicant carry out their research work successfully. If


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not are there collaborative institutions elsewhere where thiscould be done

Identify a 3-5 person Doctoral Committee to assist thestudent in their doctoral program (approval of the researchproposal, review progress) taking into consideration the

existing capacity. Please note that, staff members whoqualify to supervise and or be on the Doctoral Committeemust have must already have a Ph.D degree of at least twoyears duration/standing, Staff may supervise up to 3 PhDstudents and not more than 5 Masters degree students atany one time.

Provisional Admission is for up to one year during whichtime the full proposal must be developed, vetted by theDoctoral Committee and approved by the Faculty HigherDegrees and Research Committee.

iii) FULL ADMISSION DURATION of 3 YEARS)For full admission to be granted the following be satisfied:-

Proposal should have been presented to members of the DoctorlaCommittee for their review at least two weeks in advance.

Applicant is invited to defend the proposal before the DoctoralCommittee. The defense should normally not exceed one hour.

The Doctoral Committee should submit their signed report to theChairperson of the Faculty Higher Degrees and Research Committee.

Signed minutes by all members who attend the relevant FacultyHigher Degrees and Research Committee accompanied by thecorrected final proposal be forwarded to the Graduate School.

A letter from a supervisor certifying incorporation of all corrections tothe proposal as recommended by the Doctoral Committee and theFaculty Higher Degrees and Research Committee also he sent to theGraduate School.

A receipt of having been paid up and registered for the PROVISIONALADISSION period.

FULL ADMISSION letter is prepared by the DIRECTOR of the Schoolof Graduate Studies for duration of 3 years effective from the date ofthe minutes of the Faculty Higher Degrees and Research Committee

meeting recommending the candidate for full admission.

(iv) Progress reports using a standard form obtained from the GraduateSchool/Faculty or Department must be submitted by the studentand supervisor every 6 months before submission of theDissertation/Thesis for examination.


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All candidates registered for Masters and Doctoral degrees bydissertation or thesis must be subjected to VivaVoce examination inorder to assess the candidates in-depth knowledge of his/herregistered work and attach ownership to the dissertation or thesis.

Procedure for the Viva Voce examination Notice for the Viva Voce examination is given by the Dean/Director

to the candidate to prepare for the examination and for members ofthe panel to read the thesis/dissertation.

The Viva Voce panel consists of six members including theChairperson who should normally be the Dean. The role of theChairperson is to guide the examination.

Four members including the Chairperson should form a quorum. Thecandidates are accorded adequate time (normally 30 - 40 minutes )to make presentations followed by examination of the candidate fornot more than one hour (for Masters Degree) and 3 hours for PhDcandidates.

The Viva Voce examination is a closed one conducted by the appointedpanel only.

Audio Visual facilities are availed to the candidates byFaculty/departments where necessary.

The assessment follows laid down criteria where the examination panelevaluates the presentation in light of the thesis/dissertation and theresponse to their questions.

Candidates are finally assessed taking into consideration of the internaland external examiners recommendation giving a PASS or FAIL

In case of revision/corrections being required, one of the internalexaminers should be assigned to oversee the corrections to his satisfaction

In the case of failure the candidate may be advised to redo the work andre-submit or to discontinue from the degree programme

The report of the Viva Voce examination includes the membership, therecommendation of the panel and is signed by all panellists that attendthe session.


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