The methodology for this study is based on a longitudinal approach to assessing the increasing use of Web-based paper examples from companies like The Paper Store. This design focuses on the responses of a large subject population and determines the perspectives of the subjects on the use of The Paper Store's services for thesis and dissertation assistance.

Rationale for the Study

The rationale for this study is based on creating a factual representation of a subject population and their use of research, thesis and dissertation example services to assist them in the creation of their own research studies. This longitudinal, quantitative analysis should accomplish three goals: First, it should report the findings of a study of a subject population as well as provide an overview of the current literature and current findings on this subject. Second, it should interpret these facts based on a comparative reading of the sources relative to the experimental outcome. Third, the descriptive research study must analyze the "trends in attitudes, events, and facts in terms of their commonality and potential for prediction" (Smith, 1997, p. 34), supporting the continued use of these types of services in the future.

Instruments and Data Collection

The instruments for this study include a Web-based survey, telephone interviews, e-mail statements, referrals and written feedback. The staff at TPS Enterprises collected data as a component of their customer support process, and noted referrals from other customers when they occurred. Documentation included notes regarding the positive aspects of customer support, second purchases (including additional research on the same subject) and the response of customers regarding their own thesis or dissertation writing successes.

Subject Population

The primary sample population in this study consisted of subjects who were directed to a Web-based survey after having purchased a sample thesis, dissertation or research example paper. In order to effectively delineate the subjects based on possible gender, age or racial biases, demographic considerations for this study included both for the primary subjects, broken down by age, gender, race, & educational level.

Data Collection

The data collection process occurred over the course of 6 years between May of 1994 - May of 2000. The data collection process continued until enough subjects were evaluated to provide a solid subject population for the study based on a response-based criteria. A total of 60,000 subjects was attained to provide a substantial base for the assertions and to increase the applicability of the findings. The researcher then discussed the findings with a statistician and created a document representing the data in a quantitative format.

continue »   Chapter Four:  Discussion