List of 20 Commonly Asked Questions During a Thesis Defense

A thesis defense involves presenting and justifying your research work in front of a panel of examiners. The defense serves as an opportunity to showcase the depth of your knowledge and the significance of your research findings. Below are 20 common thesis defense questions that you need to prepare for, along with sample answers to help guide your preparation.

1.      What is your research study all about?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "This research focuses on 'The Analysis of Social-Cultural Factors Contributing to the Persistence of FGM in Tanzania: A Case of Muriba Ward in Tarime District.' It examines the deep-rooted social and cultural beliefs that sustain the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) despite ongoing efforts to eradicate it. The study explores the role of traditions, community perceptions, and the influence of local leadership in the persistence of FGM."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "My research, titled 'RAILWAY CONSTRUCTION (SGR) AND ITS SOCIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF MWANZA AT NYAMAGANA DISTRICT IN MWANZA,' investigates the impact of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) construction on the socio-economic development of Mwanza. It analyzes how the new railway infrastructure has affected local businesses, employment rates, and the overall economic growth of the Nyamagana District."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "This study, 'An Assessment on the Impact of Social Media Use on Increasing Sales Performance to Small Entrepreneurs: A Case of Small Entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District,' assesses how small entrepreneurs in the Nyamagana District utilize social media platforms to enhance their sales performance. It explores the strategies they employ, the challenges they face, and the measurable impact on their business growth."

2.      Why did you choose this study?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I chose this study on the persistence of FGM in Muriba Ward because of a personal commitment to understanding and addressing gender-based violence. The continued practice of FGM in Tanzania, despite legal prohibitions, intrigued me, and I wanted to explore the socio-cultural dynamics that perpetuate this harmful tradition."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "My fascination with infrastructure development and its role in economic transformation motivated me to study the SGR project in Mwanza. I wanted to understand how such a significant construction project can influence the socio-economic landscape of a region, especially in a developing country like Tanzania."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "Having observed the rise of social media as a powerful marketing tool, I was curious about its effectiveness for small entrepreneurs. This study in Nyamagana District allowed me to explore the real-world impacts of social media on business performance, providing valuable insights for both academics and practitioners."

 

3.      Why did you choose this particular title for your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I selected the title 'The Analysis of Social-Cultural Factors Contributing to the Persistence of FGM in Tanzania: A Case of Muriba Ward in Tarime District' to precisely reflect the focus of my research on the specific social and cultural aspects that influence the continuation of FGM in a defined geographic area."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "The title 'RAILWAY CONSTRUCTION (SGR) AND ITS SOCIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF MWANZA AT NYAMAGANA DISTRICT IN MWANZA' was chosen to highlight the dual focus of my research on both the infrastructural aspect (SGR) and its socio-economic impacts on the Mwanza region."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "I chose 'An Assessment on the Impact of Social Media Use on Increasing Sales Performance to Small Entrepreneurs: A Case of Small Entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District' to succinctly convey the objective of my research, which is to evaluate how social media influences sales among small-scale entrepreneurs."

4.      What is the scope of your study?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "The scope of my study is confined to Muriba Ward in the Tarime District of Tanzania. It includes an in-depth analysis of the social and cultural factors that contribute to the persistence of FGM within this specific community, drawing from interviews, focus groups, and local surveys."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "This study focuses on the Nyamagana District in Mwanza, analyzing the socio-economic development resulting from the SGR construction. It encompasses economic indicators such as employment rates, business growth, and infrastructure improvements over the period of the railway construction."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "My research is limited to small entrepreneurs operating within the Nyamagana District. It examines the use of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to increase sales performance, including the strategies used and the challenges faced by these entrepreneurs."

5.      What phenomenon were you trying to understand with this research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "The phenomenon I aimed to understand is the persistence of female genital mutilation (FGM) despite legal prohibitions and ongoing eradication efforts. Specifically, I explored the social and cultural factors that sustain this practice in Muriba Ward, Tarime District."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "I sought to understand the socio-economic changes brought about by the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in the Nyamagana District of Mwanza. This includes the economic benefits, social impacts, and any unintended consequences of the infrastructure project."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "The phenomenon under investigation is the impact of social media usage on the sales performance of small entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District. I examined how these entrepreneurs leverage social media for marketing and sales, and the overall effect on their business success."

6.      Who will be most interested in your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "This research will be of interest to gender studies scholars, human rights activists, policy makers, and NGOs working towards the eradication of FGM. It provides insights into the cultural barriers to change and can inform more effective intervention strategies."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "Policy makers, urban planners, economists, and business owners in Mwanza will find this research particularly relevant. It offers a detailed analysis of how major infrastructure projects can drive regional development and impact local communities."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "Small business owners, marketing professionals, and researchers studying digital marketing will be most interested in this study. It provides practical insights into how social media can be utilized to boost sales performance among small-scale entrepreneurs."

7.      Did your research questions evolve during the process? If so, how?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "Initially, my research focused broadly on the persistence of FGM across Tanzania. However, as I delved deeper, I realized the importance of focusing on specific communities to understand localized cultural practices. This led me to narrow down my study to Muriba Ward in Tarime District."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "My research questions evolved to include a broader range of socio-economic indicators as I uncovered more data on the impacts of the SGR. Initially focused on economic growth alone, I expanded my study to include social impacts such as changes in community dynamics and quality of life."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "As I conducted my research, I found that different social media platforms had varying levels of impact on sales performance. This prompted me to refine my questions to explore the specific effects of individual platforms like Facebook and Instagram more thoroughly."

8.      What gaps did you intend to bridge with your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "My research aims to bridge the gap in understanding the specific socio-cultural factors that perpetuate FGM in certain Tanzanian communities. While much is known about the harmful effects of FGM, less attention has been given to the local beliefs and practices that sustain it."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "I intended to bridge the gap in knowledge regarding the local socio-economic impacts of large-scale infrastructure projects like the SGR. While many studies focus on the broader economic benefits, fewer analyze the direct effects on smaller communities and local economies."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "This study addresses the gap in knowledge about the effectiveness of social media as a sales tool for small entrepreneurs in developing regions. There is limited research on how small businesses in areas like Nyamagana District can leverage social media to enhance their sales."

9.      Why is your research significant?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "This research is significant because it provides a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural factors that need to be addressed to eradicate FGM. By identifying these factors, the study can help shape more culturally sensitive and effective intervention strategies."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "My research is significant as it highlights the direct socio-economic benefits and challenges of the SGR project for local communities. This information can guide future infrastructure projects and policy decisions to maximize positive outcomes and mitigate negative impacts."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "The significance of this research lies in its potential to help small entrepreneurs optimize their use of social media for sales growth. The findings can provide actionable insights for small business owners and support agencies to enhance their marketing strategies and improve economic outcomes."

 

10.  What did you find in your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I found that deeply ingrained cultural beliefs, community pressure, and the perceived importance of maintaining tradition are the primary factors contributing to the persistence of FGM in Muriba Ward. Additionally, local leaders play a significant role in either perpetuating or challenging these practices."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "My research revealed that the SGR project has significantly boosted local employment, improved transportation efficiency, and stimulated economic activities in Nyamagana District. However, it also identified challenges such as displacement of local businesses and environmental concerns."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "The study found that small entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District who actively use social media platforms experience a notable increase in sales performance. Facebook and Instagram were particularly effective in reaching broader audiences and engaging customers."

11.  What research findings surprised you?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I was surprised to find that some community members, especially younger women, were beginning to openly challenge the practice of FGM despite the strong cultural pressures. This indicates a potential shift in attitudes that could be leveraged for future intervention efforts."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "I was surprised by the extent of community support for the SGR project despite the displacement issues. Many residents expressed optimism about the long-term benefits and opportunities the railway would bring to the region."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "One surprising finding was the extent to which visual content on platforms like Instagram influenced customer purchasing decisions. High-quality images and engaging stories significantly boosted sales, more so than traditional marketing methods."

12.  What is the validity of your findings?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "The findings of my research are valid within the context of Muriba Ward and similar communities in Tarime District. The validity is supported by comprehensive data collection methods, including interviews, surveys, and participant observations, ensuring a representative sample of the community."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "The validity of my findings is upheld by the mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data on economic indicators with qualitative insights from community interviews. This comprehensive approach ensures that the results accurately reflect the socio-economic impact of the SGR project."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "The findings are valid for small entrepreneurs in the Nyamagana District who use social media as part of their marketing strategy. The study's validity is strengthened by the use of a representative sample and robust data analysis techniques."

13.  Why did you choose this research methodology?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I chose a qualitative research methodology to gain an in-depth understanding of the socio-cultural factors influencing the persistence of FGM. This approach allowed me to capture the nuanced perspectives and experiences of community members through interviews and focus groups."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "A mixed-methods approach was chosen to comprehensively analyze the socio-economic impacts of the SGR project. Quantitative data provided measurable economic indicators, while qualitative interviews offered insights into the social implications and community perceptions."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "I opted for a mixed-methods approach to assess the impact of social media on sales performance. Quantitative surveys measured sales metrics, while qualitative interviews with entrepreneurs provided deeper insights into their strategies and challenges."

14.  What sources did you use for data collection?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "For data collection, I used a combination of primary sources, including interviews with local community members and leaders, focus group discussions, and participant observations. Secondary sources included existing literature on FGM and cultural practices in Tanzania."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "Data was collected from a variety of sources, including government reports on the SGR project, economic data from local businesses, and interviews with community members affected by the railway construction. Additionally, academic studies on infrastructure development were reviewed."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "I collected data through surveys distributed to small entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District, interviews with business owners, and analysis of social media engagement metrics. Secondary data included existing research on social media marketing and sales performance."

15.  How can your research be put into practice?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "My research can be used to design culturally sensitive intervention programs aimed at eradicating FGM. Policy makers and NGOs can utilize the findings to develop strategies that address the specific socio-cultural factors identified in the study, promoting community-led change."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "The findings can inform future infrastructure projects by highlighting the socio-economic benefits and challenges experienced in Mwanza. Policy makers and urban planners can use this information to design more effective development initiatives that maximize positive impacts and mitigate negative consequences."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "Small entrepreneurs can apply the insights from my research to enhance their social media marketing strategies. Training programs and workshops can be developed to teach effective social media practices, helping entrepreneurs increase their sales and grow their businesses."

16.  How will your findings contribute to the related area of knowledge?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "My research contributes to the field of gender studies and human rights by providing a detailed analysis of the socio-cultural factors sustaining FGM in Tanzania. It adds to the body of knowledge on effective strategies for cultural change and the eradication of harmful practices."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "The study contributes to the literature on infrastructure development and its socio-economic impacts. It provides empirical data on the benefits and challenges of the SGR project, offering valuable insights for future research and policy-making in similar contexts."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "This research adds to the growing body of knowledge on digital marketing and entrepreneurship. It provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of social media for small business growth, offering practical recommendations for entrepreneurs and support organizations."

17.  Did you experience any limitations in your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "One limitation of my research was the reluctance of some community members to openly discuss FGM due to its sensitive nature. This may have affected the comprehensiveness of the data collected. Additionally, the study was limited to Muriba Ward, which may not fully represent the broader region."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "A limitation of the study was the availability of up-to-date economic data, which restricted the scope of the quantitative analysis. Furthermore, the research was limited to Nyamagana District, so the findings may not be generalizable to other regions affected by the SGR project."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "One limitation was the variability in social media usage among the entrepreneurs, which made it challenging to standardize the data. Additionally, the study focused on a specific geographic area, so the findings may not be applicable to other regions or industries."

18.  What sampling techniques did you use?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "I used purposive sampling to select participants who had direct experience or knowledge of FGM practices in Muriba Ward. This included local leaders, women who had undergone FGM, and community activists. This approach ensured that the sample was relevant and informative."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "For this study, I used stratified random sampling to ensure that different segments of the population in Nyamagana District were represented. This included business owners, employees, and residents, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the SGR's impact."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "I used convenience sampling to select small entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District who were active on social media. This method was chosen due to the accessibility of participants and the need to gather data from individuals who were directly using social media for business purposes.

19.       What are the dependent and independent variables in your research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "In my study on FGM, the independent variable is the socio-cultural factors, such as traditions and community beliefs, while the dependent variable is the persistence of FGM practices in Muriba Ward."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "For the SGR research, the independent variable is the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway, and the dependent variables are the socio-economic indicators such as employment rates, business growth, and overall economic development in Nyamagana District."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "In my research on social media and sales performance, the independent variable is the use of social media platforms for marketing, and the dependent variable is the sales performance of small entrepreneurs in Nyamagana District."

20.  What areas do you suggest for further research?

·         Sample Answer (FGM): "Further research could explore the effectiveness of specific intervention strategies aimed at reducing FGM in other regions of Tanzania or similar contexts. Additionally, studies could investigate the long-term impact of educational programs on changing community attitudes toward FGM."

·         Sample Answer (SGR): "Future research could examine the long-term socio-economic impacts of the SGR project as the railway becomes fully operational. Comparative studies with other infrastructure projects in different regions could also provide valuable insights into best practices for maximizing positive outcomes."

·         Sample Answer (Social Media): "Further research could explore the impact of different types of social media content on sales performance, as well as the role of social media analytics in optimizing marketing strategies. Additionally, studies could investigate the effectiveness of social media marketing for small entrepreneurs in other regions or industries."