I realize that pilot studies usually precede the full dissertation study, but the full study will take years to complete, and the write-up has to be completed in the next two years. So I am thinking about running a pilot study to work out any bugs int he protocol and obtain means and standard deviations so I can do a better power analysis. Are pilot studies ever acceptable for a doctoral thesis write-up? I want to find out standards before I ask my advisor.
Hi Jason
I suppose the answer may be discipline and country-specific.
In South Africa a masters degree (and dissertation) is regarded as an apprenticeship degree. As such, the candidate is expected to present evidence that he/she can 'conduct research.' In such an instance a pilot study may be acceptable depending on the scope and depth of the study and the findings.
In terms of a doctoral thesis the candidate is supposed to make a contribution to the existing body of knowledge. In this case I suspect that a pilot study might not really be appropriate. Again, it would depend on the nature, depth, breadth and quality of the research being conducted.
So, a long answer short, I would say 'it depends.'
My suggestion would be to speak to your supervisor about your idea and follow his/her advice.
Best of luck with the dissertation!
That said, it's a more efficient use of time to do a related survey, in Qualtrics preferably, and then write up the results for your dissertation. That way, you can do your pilot study and final study while you're employed and get paid to do it.
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