Final Paper Instructions
Title: The Security Implications of China’s Growing Influence in the Global South: A Grounded Theory Analysis of the Belt and Road Initiative in Jamaica (2015–2022)
Project Overview:
This assignment is the capstone paper, combining and expanding on two previous assignments to create a complete grounded theory–style inductive research paper. The final delivery must be approximately 18 pages in total. The writer should refine and merge the earlier assignments to ensure cohesion, flow, and alignment with the grounded theory methodology.
Paper Structure
1. Introduction and Methodology (1–2 pages)
- Introduce the topic and state the research question.
- Explain the purpose of the paper.
- Provide an overview of grounded theory methodology, including how inductive research works.
- Reference Urquhart (2013) and/or the Grounded Theory Online resource for methodology context.
2. Case Study (6–8 pages)
- Expand on the first assignment, using its data as the foundation.
- Organize the case study around specific variables identified during the coding and categorization process.
- Provide a clear beginning and end to the case.
- Conclude this section with a hypothesis that addresses the research question.
3. Literature on Theory (6–8 pages)
- Draw on the second assignment as the base.
- Organize the section around the variables most used by scholars addressing this theory.
- Test the hypothesis by evaluating it against established theoretical frameworks.
- Refine prior work to ensure clarity, proper sourcing, and academic rigor.
4. Findings and Conclusions (6–8 pages)
- Integrate the data from the case study with the theoretical analysis.
- Compare variables identified in the case study with those in the literature review.
- Answer the research question using evidence and theory.
- Discuss whether the case study supports, refutes, or expands upon existing scholarship.
- Present your own insights and grounded theory conclusions.
Key Notes for the Writer
- This project requires rewriting the previous assignments with significant editing, expansion, and integration into one unified paper.
- The final product must be 18 pages in total, excluding the title page, references, and appendices.
- Ensure smooth transitions between sections so the document reads as a single cohesive research paper.
- Strengthen citations, formatting, and academic style throughout.
- The tone must remain analytical, professional, and research-oriented.