What is an original and significant contribution to knowledge?
Anyone beginning a MPhil or PhD should be aware of the specific standards and expectations of the discipline area regarding a significant and original contribution to knowledge. This is usually developed in discussion with an experienced Director of Studies (DoS). However, in general most candidates for a MPhil or PhD attempt to base their claim on doing one or more of the following: a) Develop new model, paradigm or conceptual framework and test it in application. b) Successfully challenge existing model or paradigm and show how it can be improved or why it should be discarded in certain circumstances. c) Show that “taken for granted” truths or assumptions are not substantiated by evidence. d) Extend a model or paradigm developed for one field to another and show how its use refines, deepens or changes understanding of the target field. e) Open up a new field and map its “topography” for later researchers to do in-depth work. f) Develop an existing methodology, form of enquiry or tool
