College of Doctoral Studies RES-831 Problem Space Identification & Reflection This assignment will help you develop key points for the prospectus presentation slides and Chapter 2 Identification of the Problem Space Section in the Dissertation Template. Part 1 – Key Points Table In the following table, enter information for your proposed study in the Potential Topic Key Point Description column using the instructions for each key point in the Key Point column. Bullets may be used in the table. Complete sentences are required with properly formatted APAstyle in-text citations. Sources of in-text citations must be included on the references page. Key Point Potential Topic Key Point Description Background to the Problem 1. Describe what is already understood about the problem. 2. Present findings from prior research related to the history of the problem space. 3. Focus on: a) When the problem started b) What has been discovered about the problem c) The current state of the problem 4. Support information with empirical citations Problem Space 1. In 3-5 bullets, describe what still needs to be understood related to the topic from empirical literature or research. 2. Use empirical literature dated primarily within the past 5 years. 3. Identify and support what still needs to be understood regarding the problem space through a combination of arguments that justify the problem space: a) Professional and/or broader societal need identified in the literature b) Directions for future research based on limitations, College of Doctoral Studies recommendations, and/or conflicting findings c) Synthesis of broader topics to study in combination Review of Literature Topics/Themes Identify 3-5 major topics in the literature related to the proposed problem space Each bullet should include: a) 1-2 sentences defining/describing each topic b) At least 3 empirical sources supporting each topic Problem Statement State the specific problem for research with a single clear declarative statement starting with “It is not known…” Alignment: The problem statement must align with the established problem space as described above. 1. 2. 1. 2. Part 2 – Written Reflection (250-500 words) Using the problem space justification from the Problem Space section as well as the Review of Literature Topics/Themes and Problem Statement sections above, reflect on the following: • • • • Explain how and why your topic has changed over the past several courses. From the findings of research studies and evolution of recent literature on the topic, define the parameters for the problem statement for potential study. Describe how the study may contribute to the body of literature. Describe the potential practical applications from the research to your profession or practitioner community and to your personal growth. This reflection must be written in paragraph form in complete sentences and using proper APA in-text citations as appropriate. Include a properly formatted APA-style references page below the reflection. The references page must include all references associated with in-text citations in this assignment. Delete the above instructions after writing your reflection. College of Doctoral Studies References
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