Example methodology dissertation topic 2:

Adapting the Likert scale for a more sophisticated audience: an opinion.

As a mechanism through which to quantify primary data, especially within the social sciences, the Likert scale is an oft-used tool. Whilst this dissertation advances the view that quantitative data is superior to qualitative (a contention discussed within the study), it nevertheless posits, that improvements could be made to the Likert scale. In so doing, it suggests that a fundamental weakness exists within the scale as a consequence of its usage of terms such ‘agree strongly’ for such phrases are nebulous concepts. The result is that, whilst 80% of respondents may ‘strongly agree’, there may be substantial variations amongst the respondents as to what ‘strongly agree’ specifically means.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Chimi, C.J. and Russell, D.L. (2009). ‘The Likert scale: A proposal for improvement using quasi-continuous variables’. In Proceedings of the Information Systems Education Conference (Vol. 26).
• Cummins, R.A. and Gullone, E. (2000). ‘Why we should not use 5-point Likert scales: The case for subjective quality of life measurement’. In, Proceedings, Second International Conference on Quality of Life in Cities (pp. 74-93).
• Dawes, J. (2008). ‘Do data characteristics change according to the number of scale points used? An experiment using 5 point, 7 point and 10 point scales’. International Journal of Market Research, vol. 50(1), pp. 61-104.