The special problem is a distinct contribution to knowledge and practice of a field of study based on autonomous research that is shorter than a thesis.
Specifically, the special problem is a research paper having the same qualities of a thesis except for being shorter and allowing theoretically grounded practice oriented research such as project-based research, action research, demonstration research and the like —
a) demonstrates the candidate’s capability to pursue original research in the field of study based on a good understanding of the research techniques and concepts appropriate to the discipline;
b) consists of the candidate’s own account of his/her research;
c) gives a critical assessment of the relevant literature, describes the method of research and its findings, including a discussion of those findings, and indicates in what respects they appear to the candidate to advance the study of the subject;
d) embodies the results of an empirical research program carried out after the registration of the student for the MA degree and which may reasonably be expected of a student, taking into account the required length of the special problem and maximum period of registration for the program;
e) is written in English or Filipino and is satisfactory in its literary and/or technical presentation and structure with a full bibliography and references;
f) makes clear the sources from which information has been derived, the extent to which the work of others has been used, and the areas which are claimed as original;
g) is not more than 15,000 words (exclusive of appendices, the list of references and bibliographies but including footnotes, endnotes, glossary, maps, diagrams and tables).
h) is of a standard to merit publication in whole or in part or in a revised form (for example, as a monograph or as a journal article).
