SCHOOLOF EDUCATION

DOCTORATEOFEDUCATION DISSERTATIONHANDBOOK 20102011

LibertyUniversity 1971UniversityBlvd. Lynchburg,VA24502 RevisedJanuary1, 2011Clarifyingdetails andeditswereadded. Informationonthe Librarypublication processwasupdated.

ThishandbookisaguidetothedissertationprocessforLiberty UniversitysSOEEd.D.students.Itdoesnotconstituteacontract andissubjecttochangeatthediscretionofLUSOE.Thisversionof thedissertationhandbooksupersedesallpreviousversions. CandidatesenrolledinEDUC990maycontinueundertheformer guidelines.

TableofContents
I. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................5 1.1 1.2 Introduction to the Doctoral Journey and Dissertation Process ....................................... 5 Purpose of this Manual ..................................................................................................... 6

II. Relevant Research Courses .........................................................................................................6 2.1 Courses .................................................................................................................................. 6 2.2 Course Enrollment Policy ..................................................................................................... 8 III. Comprehensive Examination .....................................................................................................9 3.1 Comprehensive Examination Application ............................................................................ 9 3.2 Comprehensive Examination Schedule ................................................................................. 9 3.3 Comprehensive Examination Format .................................................................................... 9 3.4 Comprehensive Examination Completion (Candidacy Approval)...................................... 10 IV. Choosing a Dissertation Committee ........................................................................................10 4.1 Organize Research Documents ........................................................................................... 10 4.2 Secure a Chair ..................................................................................................................... 11 4.3 Secure Committee Members ............................................................................................... 11 4.4 Submit Committee Member Form ...................................................................................... 12 V. Prospectus and Proposal ...........................................................................................................12 5.1 Develop a Prospectus .......................................................................................................... 12 5.2 Develop a Proposal.............................................................................................................. 13 5.3 Schedule a Proposal Defense .............................................................................................. 14 5.4 Defend Proposal .................................................................................................................. 15 VI. IRB ..........................................................................................................................................16 6.1 Submit IRB Application(s).................................................................................................. 16 6.2 Receive IRB Approval ........................................................................................................ 17 VII. Dissertation ............................................................................................................................17 7.1 Execute the Research .......................................................................................................... 17 7.2 Develop Final Dissertation Manuscript............................................................................... 17 7.3 Schedule a Dissertation Defense (Register for EDUC 990) ............................................... 19 7.4 Defend Dissertation ............................................................................................................. 20 7.5 Complete Final Edits of Dissertation .................................................................................. 21

3 7.6 Obtain Final Approval ......................................................................................................... 21 7.7 Publish Dissertation and Complete Graduation Paperwork ................................................ 22 VIII. Dissertation Guidelines .........................................................................................................22 8.1 Dissertation Style ................................................................................................................ 22 8.2 Dissertation Format ............................................................................................................. 23 8.3 Dissertation Research Topics .............................................................................................. 25 8.4 Dissertation Research Designs ............................................................................................ 26 8.5 Academic Honesty .............................................................................................................. 26 Appendix........................................................................................................................................27 Appendix A: Dissertation Committee Qualifications and Responsibilities ..................................28 The Chair ................................................................................................................................... 28 Qualifications......................................................................................................................... 28 Responsibilities...................................................................................................................... 28 Committee Member #1.............................................................................................................. 28 Qualifications......................................................................................................................... 28 Responsibilities...................................................................................................................... 28 Committee Member #2.............................................................................................................. 28 Qualifications......................................................................................................................... 28 Responsibilities...................................................................................................................... 29 Communication Policy .............................................................................................................. 29 Appendix B: Dissertation Technologies ........................................................................................30 Blackboard ................................................................................................................................ 30 SharePoint ................................................................................................................................. 30 Elluminate Live ......................................................................................................................... 30 Appendix C: Contacts and Resources............................................................................................31 Administration/Support Contacts .............................................................................................. 31 Research Consultant Contacts ................................................................................................... 31 Internal Web Resources ............................................................................................................ 31 Appendix D: Forms .......................................................................................................................32 Candidacy Admittance Form .................................................................................................... 33 Committee Member Form ........................................................................................................ 34

4 Outside Committee Member Form .......................................................................................... 35 Proposal Defense Rubric and Decision Form ........................................................................... 36 Dissertation Announcement Template ..................................................................................... 39 Editing Checklist ....................................................................................................................... 40 Dissertation Defense Rubric and Decision Form ...................................................................... 43 Research Consultant Form: Quantitative Research ................................................................... 46 Research Consultant Form: Qualitative Research .................................................................... 48

I. Introduction
1.1 Introduction to the Doctoral Journey and Dissertation Process
The doctoral journey consists of three primary components: (a) the coursework, (b) the comprehensive evaluation, and (c) the dissertation. The student completes coursework to develop and further hone his or her critical thinking skills, writing skills, and knowledge. During coursework, the student examines a variety of content relevant to a specific area of study. Coursework provides an opportunity for students to identify an appropriate topic for the dissertation, as course papers and presentations may provide the impetus for the topic. An appropriate topic may also be derived from dialogue with The proverbs of Solomon son of faculty, personal research, or participation on a research team. The development of a dissertation topic should begin David, king of Israel: for during the students first course and refined throughout attaining wisdom and discipline; coursework. Furthermore, relationships with faculty who for understanding words of could serve as a chair or committee member should be built insight; for acquiring a throughout the first part of the journey. It needs to be disciplined and prudent life, understood that the students topic should align with the doing what is right and just and research interests of the SOE faculty. Failure to align research with interests of faculty could result in difficulty fair; for giving prudence to the locating a chair and committee members. Furthermore, it simple, knowledge and should be understood that the dissertation needs to be align discretion to the young- let the with the discipline of education. wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning The Comprehensive Examination requires the student to get guidance- for understanding draw upon the knowledge and skills he or she has developed proverbs and parables, the during the coursework. Its purpose is to assess the students readiness to become a doctoral candidate. sayings and riddles of the wise. Proverbs 1: 1-6 The doctoral dissertation is the final academic requirement for the Ed.D. and is designed to evaluate the candidates capabilities as a scholar in education. Final recommendation for the Ed.D. depends strongly upon the dissertation, and approval of the manuscript by the doctoral candidates committee is required before the Ed.D. is awarded. The candidate prepares the dissertation, which demonstrates his or her understanding of the literature, ability to execute research, and ability to write in a scholarly fashion. Thus, the candidate is expected to be a proactive, self-directed lifelong learner. The candidate holds the primary responsibility to define the gap in the literature, to identify the knowledge which he or she wishes to contribute to the field of education and to produce an original piece of research. The candidate is also independently responsible to design, to conduct, to analyze, and to present the research as well as to ensure that the manuscript is in correct APA form and written in a scholarly manner. The committee serves as both a guide and a facilitator in this process. The committee supports the candidate in this dissertation process; however, the committee should not be expected to provide extensive editing of the document. If help is needed, an outside editor should be sought. The Graduate Writing Center, graduatewriting@liberty.edu, can also provide aid for professional

6 writing. It should be used at the beginning of the writing process, not as copy editor at the end. Note that the writing center will only review a dissertation manuscript once. Additionally, the committee should be expected to provide methodology and statistical guidance; however, they should not be expected to provide extensive research or statistical consultation. Outside resources such as statistician or expert in qualitative interpretation may be sought. Please note, however, that the candidate should never relinquish the responsibility for the process or the product. The candidate is held responsible to know, to understand, and to answer for ethical behavior, procedures, accuracy, interpretation, and integrity of the research. The dissertation is a representation of the author, the committee, and the university. The dissertation is published in Digital Commons and thus is available to scholars around the world. Therefore, the manuscript should be scholarly in nature and reflect the candidate's most quality work.

1.2 Purpose of this Manual

This handbook has a two-fold purpose. First, the purpose of this handbook is to clarify both the steps leading to the dissertation process and the steps of the dissertation process itself. The handbook is a guide for the essential steps of the dissertation process, including the writing, the proposal defense, and the final dissertation. In general terms, the roles and responsibilities of the candidate, the chair, and other committee members are outlined. The process, roles, and responsibilities are provided in narrative form throughout the handbook and summarized in a bullet like format at the end of the handbook in the timeline. Because the completed dissertation is a publication of Liberty University and represents the university, the school, and the author, candidates are expected to maintain high standards concerning the form and appearance of dissertations. Thus, the second purpose of this hand book is to provide directives and standards for doctoral candidates to follow in the dissertation process. The handbook provides specifications about content and style of the dissertation manuscript. Doctoral candidates are responsible to follow these guidelines and should refer to the guide as they delineate and complete their dissertations. The handbook also acts as an aid for the dissertation chair and committee to ensure the maintenance of high standards concerning the form and appearance of dissertations. The chair is responsible to ensure that the structure, content, and submission guidelines are followed. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.- 1 Corinthians 15:58

II. Relevant Research Courses

2.1 Courses
There are several research courses relevant to the dissertation process. Please be aware that these courses must be taken at Liberty in the SOE Ed.D. program and cannot be transferred from other schools or universities.

7 EDUC 712 Advanced Educational Statistics (3 credits) - This course involves an examination of basic descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, analysis of variance, correlation techniques and nonparametric statistical methods will be discussed. This course is foundational for quantitative data analysis that may be part of the dissertation. EDUC 715 Quantitative Research (3 credits) - This course is designed for those planning to write a dissertation. An examination of quantitative designs for educational research topics will be considered. These are: Developing a research problem, Reviewing the Literature, The Hypothesis, Descriptive Statistics, Sampling and Inferential Statistics, Tools of Research, Validity and Reliability, Experimental Research Designs, Ex Post Facto Research, Correlational Research, Survey Research, Guidelines for Writing a Quantitative Research Proposal, and Interpreting and Reporting Results of Quantitative Research. In this course, students are introduced to research designs and expected to begin writing a quantitative research proposal in preparation for EDUC 919. It is hoped that the research proposal developed in this course will be the basis of the EDUC 919 and proposal development for dissertation; however, it is possible to complete a research proposal for this course that is not related to the students eventual dissertation proposal topic. EDUC 817 Qualitative Research (3 credits) - This course examines qualitative methods used in educational research, focusing primarily on participant-observation, asking questions, writing field notes, and on the transformation of these primary field data into written ethnographic documents. In this course, students are introduced to research designs and expected to begin writing a qualitative prospectus in preparation for EDUC 919. It is hoped that the research proposal developed in this course will be the basis of the EDUC 919 and proposal development for dissertation; however, it is possible to complete a research proposal for this course that is not related to the students eventual dissertation proposal topic. EDUC 919 Professional Writing and Research (3 credits) - Overview of writing and organizational skills necessary for completion of a dissertation and submission of articles for publication. Includes components of research design. This course is a residential intensive and requires students to develop chapter 3 of their dissertations. It is hoped that the product developed in this course will be the basis of the prospectus development for dissertation; however, it is possible to complete the product for this course and it not be related to the students eventual dissertation topic. The course is taken just prior to the comprehensive examination. It should be the last course that the student takes. EDUC 970 Comprehensive Exam (No credit; course fee) Following completion of all coursework, students will take the written comprehensive examination. This course may only be taken twice. During this course and the proceeding EDUC 980 course, students should seek and confirm a potential dissertation chair. EDUC 980 Dissertation Prospectus (3 credits) Required of all candidates for the Doctorate of Education degree, the term following the successful completion of their comprehensive examination. Completion and review of the dissertation prospectus under the supervision of a dissertation consultant. Candidates should register for 3 credit hours of EDUC 980, under the research consultant who specializes in the chosen methodology for dissertation. Please verify with advising when registering however, odd section numbers are facilitated by qualitative

8 research consultants and even number sections by quantitative consultants.Note: Candidates who successfully completed the comprehensive examination before or during fall of 2010 were not required to take this course. EDUC 989 Dissertation Proposal and Research (3 credits per term) - Candidates should register for 3 credit hours of EDUC 989 under the chairs name the term following the successful completion of EDUC 980. EDUC 989 must be taken a minimum of two times. Candidates should only enroll in EDUC 989 in B term unless they want to registrar for 2 terms of EDUC 989 in a semester or want to registrar for a term of EDUC 989 after taking EDUC 970 or 980 in B term. The chairs written permission submitted to advising is needed to enroll in a D term of EDUC 989. Any candidate who is not ready for enrollment in EDUC 990 after completing the second enrollment in EDUC 989 is required to repeat EDUC 989 until deemed ready by chair for enrollment in EDUC 990. Upon completion of every semester term, the candidate will receive a grade of P or F based on their progress in the dissertation process. An F will be awarded to those students who do not complete or submit work to their chair during the semester. If an F is awarded, the current catalogue policy for failing grades applies. EDUC 990 Dissertation Defense (3 credits) Candidates register for this course when they are ready to defend dissertation, as determined by the candidates committee chair and the research consultant. The defense must be completed on campus and does not count toward residency requirements. Upon completion of the course, the candidate will receive a letter grade upon the success of the defense and the ability to complete all required edits. The candidate will also complete a course evaluation. Note: Students who successfully completed the comprehensive evaluation before Fall 2010 and did not complete EDUC 980, enroll in EDUC 990 for 6 credits. Note: The amount of time each candidate takes to complete the dissertation process varies; however, all coursework and a successfully defended dissertation must occur within a seven year timeframe. If a student fails to finish within this timeframe, he or she will apply for a time extension prior to the timeframe deadline. Time extension requests should be submitted the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs. The extension request should include time desired for the extension as well as the reason the extension is needed. The candidate will receive a written decision from the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs. The candidate may also choose to reapply to the program and comply with program guidelines employed at time of re-admittance. All timelines for the dissertation process must be approved by the dissertation chair and committee members.

2.2 Course Enrollment Policy

It is the policy of the Graduate School and the SOE that candidates must be continually enrolled throughout their dissertation research and completion. After successfully completing EDUC 970, the candidate immediately enrolls in EDUC 980 (for 3 hours). The candidate may chose to enroll the term following EDUC 970 (e.g. in D term); however, the candidate must enroll no later than the semester following EDUC 970 (e.g. Summer). There should be no gap in enrollment between EDUC 970 and EDUC 980. After completion of EDUC 980, enrollment in EDUC 989 for one term each semester should continue until enrollment in EDUC 990. The candidate enrolls in sections of EDUC 989 and 990 under his or her chairs name. The candidate should only

9 enroll in EDUC 989 in B term unless they want to registrar for 2 terms of EDUC 989 a semester or want to registrar for the term of EDUC 989 after taking EDUC 970 or 980 in B term. The chairs written permission submitted to advising is needed to enroll in a D term of EDUC 989. The candidate enrolls in EDUC 990 (for 3 hours) under the guidance and permission of his or her chair only during the semester in which the defense occurs. Please note that the chair should not allow the candidate to enroll in EDUC 990 unless he or she is certain that the defense will occur during the selected semester. Unless deferment is sought and approved, failure to maintain continuous enrollment could result in dismissal from the program. If candidate is dismissed from the program for failure to continuously enroll, the candidate may reapply to the program and comply with program guidelines employed at time of re-admittance.

III. Comprehensive Examination

Students must apply for the comprehensive examination and successfully complete it prior to entering the dissertation phase of their Ed.D. program.

3.1 Comprehensive Examination Application

After the completion of all coursework, students enroll in EDUC 970 and take a written comprehensive examination. To receive clearance for enrollment in EDUC 970, students submit a Candidacy Admittance form (see Form Appendix or the Dissertation Guide) and completed DCP (see Advising Guide) to the Faculty Support Coordinator. Both documents should be submitted via e-mail during the registration period at least one semester term prior to the term the student plans to take the comprehensive exam. Students will be notified of clearance and can enroll in EDUC 970. If coursework or other applicable requirements are not completed, the student will be notified and advised to complete necessary requirements prior to enrollment in EDUC 970. There should be no break in enrollment between coursework and comprehensive evaluation.

3.2 Comprehensive Examination Schedule

Comprehensive exams are administered each semester. The currently exam takes place online; this may change under the discretion of the SOE administration. The exact date is determined while enrolled in EDUC 970. Failure to attend the exam will result in automatic failure.

3.3 Comprehensive Examination Format

The comprehensive examination is a written exam. The comprehensive evaluation is an open resource exam; this may change under the discretion of the SOE administration. That is, the student may refer to or consult written resources; the student may not discuss the questions with or consult with people. Students are presented with questions the day of the exam; The exam has two sections: research and analysis and core content. The student will be required to answer a specific number of questions from each section. The research and analysis questions are derived from the required

10 core research and analysis courses. Students are required to answer research and analysis questions as part of the comprehensive examination. Exam responses are assessed on the following criteria: the directness and completeness of the response, the knowledge base used to answer the question, the thesis statement, the validity and reliability of references used, and the employment of proper grammar and APA. All exams are analyzed for plagiarism and self-plagiarism. Plagiarism or self-plagiarism will result in automatically failing the exam and could result in dismissal from the program. All sections must be passed before the student is admitted to candidacy and can register for EDUC 980.

3.4 Comprehensive Examination Completion (Candidacy Approval)

Upon admittance to candidacy, the candidate and the dissertation chair (if previously identified) will receive an e-mail verifying that the student was admitted to candidacy. Upon successful completion of the comprehensive exam, the candidate enrolls in EDUC 980. The candidate will contact academic advising and request to be enrolled in EDUC 980 under the name of a research consultant who is an expert in his/her planned research methodology. If the student fails to successfully negotiate any section of the comprehensive evaluation, the student has the opportunity to reenroll in EDUC 970 for a second semester and retake the failed section of the exam. Note that the topic of the question chosen for the first exam will be the topic of the question that will be completed when the exam is retaken. Reenrollment and retaking any section of the exam may only be done once. If the student fails to successfully negotiate any section of the comprehensive evaluation during the second attempt, he or she will not be permitted to continue in the program.

IV. Choosing a Dissertation Committee

During the last semester of coursework (usually during EDUC 919) students should identify potential dissertation chairs. During the semester in which the comprehensive evaluation (EDUC 970) or Prospectus Development course (EDUC 980) is taken, candidates should secure a dissertation chair. Then, under the direction of the chair, the candidate should secure a committee. The dissertation committee must include the following: 1. An LU SOE full-time faculty, residential or LU Online (LUO), chair; 2. A committee member with a doctoral degree who is employed by Liberty; 3. A committee member with a doctoral degree outside Liberty University. Full qualifications required for both the chair and committee members are listed in the Committee Qualification Appendix. Potential LU chairs and committee members are listed on the Dissertation Guide.

4.1 Organize Research Documents

When contacting potential chairs and committee members, candidates should provide three items:

11 1) A prospectus or methodology chapter 2) A one-page research summary 3) A timeline that identifies the students plan for enrollment in dissertation courses A developing chapter 3 and prospectus should be a result of the work from the following courses: EDUC 715 (Quantitative Research), EDUC 817 (Qualitative Research), and EDUC 919 (Professional Writing and Research). A methodology chapter will begin to be developed in EDUC 919; the prospectus is finalized in EDUC 980. The prospectus is a 20-30 page document that provides a preliminary description of the proposed dissertation research. The prospectus should delineate the dissertation topic and the significance of the topic and provide the chapter outline. The chapter outlines should be precise and concise narratives. The Prospectus Template (see the Dissertation Guide) is provided as a reference. In addition to the developing prospectus or methodology chapter, the student also prepares a onepage summary of his or her research plans for both the chair and committee members. The summary should provide a brief overview of the planned research; it should include the topic, the theoretical framework, the research problem, the research question, the sample, the setting, the research design and analysis, and the planned timeline for the dissertation process (with semesters and dates specified). These items as well as a one minute video in which the candidate describes the research project may also be uploaded to SharePoint during EDUC 919 and EDUC 980. The candidate may direct the chair and Liberty committee members to the Candidate Research Showcase site.

4.2 Secure a Chair

The student should first secure a chair. To secure a chair, the student should contact via e-mail the SOE full-time faculty, either residential or LUO. The contact should include a prospectus or methodology chapter, a research summary, and a timeline. The full qualifications for a chair are located in the Committee Qualification Appendix. On the LU SOE Dissertation Guide, a link is provided with a list of the potential chairs and their research interests. *** Prior to contacting a chair, it is important that the candidate check the chairs availability on the Chair Availability Status site on the Dissertation Portal. A candidate should not contact a chair if the chairs status is unavailable.***

4.3 Secure Committee Members

Under the guidance of the chair, the student should contact and secure additional committee members. Committee members should be chosen based upon their area of expertise and their availability during the anticipated dissertation timeline. The full qualifications for the committee members are located in the Committee Qualification Appendix. The LU SOE Dissertation Guide provides a list of the potential internal LU committee members and their research interests. To secure potential committee members, the student should send an inquiry via e-mail that includes the research summary, the prospectus or methodology chapter, and a timeline. Potential committee members and student should discuss with the chair the respective roles for each committee member.

12 If a student is unable to locate a chair or other committee members for the dissertation committee, the student may contact the Doctoral Research Chair to assist them in securing committee members. The student should e-mail the request with the attached research summary, timeline, and prospectus or methodology chapter to committeesearch@liberty.edu. The Doctoral Research Chair will then assist the student in locating individuals to serve on his or her committee.

4.4 Submit Committee Member Form

Once the entire committee has been secured, the candidate submits the Doctoral Dissertation Committee Form and the Outside Committee Member Approval Form to the Chair of Doctoral Research at committeesearch@liberty.edu and to the Faculty Support Coordinator via e-mail. The student should seek and secure a chair and committee no later than the end of the EDUC 980. Ideally, the student will seek and secure a potential chair during EDUC 970; a chair needs to be secured by the end of EDUC 980. Please note that the formal responsibilities and official obligations of the chair and committee members do not commence until the successful completion of the comprehensive evaluation and admittance to candidacy and the completion of EUC 980. The chair or committee members may choose to engage in informal advisement prior to this time (i.e., guidance about research direction), but they are not obligated. If successful completion of the comprehensive evaluation or EDUC 980 is delayed, then the candidate may need to seek an alternative chair or committee members.

V. Prospectus and Proposal

5.1 Develop a Prospectus
Once the candidate has been approved for candidacy and is enrolled in EDUC 980, the candidate is provided with access and expected to use the dissertation technologies. The candidate is provided with access to the EDUC 980 Blackboard course. The Doctoral Research Chair provides the candidate, the dissertation chair, the LU committee member (where applicable), and the assigned research consultant with access to a My Dissertation Portal site, specifically designed for collaboration during the LU SOE dissertation process. The candidate also has access to the Dissertation Portal. The candidate needs to familiarize himself or herself with the technologies and their role in the dissertation process. A brief description about the technologies can be found in the Dissertation Technology Appendix. Upon enrollment in EDUC 980, the candidate develops a solid research prospectus. The Quantitative Dissertation Prospectus Template and Qualitative Dissertation Prospectus Template (see the Dissertation Guide) are used to develop the prospectus. The prospectus is the first formal document candidates write as part of the dissertation process. The prospectus is expected to be foundational to the formal proposal, then ultimately the dissertation manuscript, that the doctoral candidate develops under the guidance of the chair and the committee. EDUC 980 is facilitated by the research consultant; thus, the prospectus is developed under the guidance and supervision of the research consultant. Although highly valued, the chair and committees feedback and participation in the prospectus development process is not required.

13 The feedback received from the research consultant during EDUC 980 is uploaded to each candidates My Dissertation Portal Manuscript Library. Upon entrance into EDUC 989, all feedback should be discussed with the chair. Failure to consider the consultants feedback, especially in regard to research design and analysis, could result in delays in the dissertation process.

5.2 Develop a Proposal

After successful completion of EDUC 980, the candidate enrolls in the first three hours of EDUC 989 in his or her chairs section. Enrollment in EDUC 989 should occur only in B term unless special permission by the chair is granted (see the Relevant Research Course section of the Dissertation Handbook). Upon enrollment in EDUC 989, the candidate is provided access to the EDUC 989 Blackboard site that is facilitated by his or her chair. Although EDUC 989 is not an 8 week course with weekly assignments, the candidate should visit the course site to complete required semester term tasks and to find helpful resources. When in EDUC 989, if the candidate has not already done so, the candidates first course of action should be to contact the chair to determine the line of communication (e.g. phone calls, econferencing sessions, The Dissertation Portal, etc) that will be used and the expected frequency of contact. Through the development of the proposal, the candidate is encouraged to have frequent contact (i.e., bi-monthly or monthly) with the dissertation chair and regular contact with the committee members. This is important since having ongoing feedback and support increases the probability of a successful proposal defense. To facilitate communication and collaboration, the candidate and the committee are encouraged to use The Dissertation Portal, specifically the candidates My Dissertation Portal. The candidate is encouraged post monthly or bi-monthly progress updates in the My Dissertation Portal discussion forum and to frequently upload the evolving manuscript to the My Dissertation Portal manuscript library. Upon enrollment in EDUC 989, the candidate immediately begins working with his or her chair to develop a solid dissertation proposal. Under the guidance of the committee chair and with assistance from the dissertation committee (as the chair instructs), the candidate develops a formal proposal. The proposal needs to consist, at minimum, of the Title page, Abstract, Chapter 1: Introduction, Chapter 2: Literature Review, Chapter 3: Methodology, and an Appendix with instruments, participant letters, and IRB applications. The Quantitative Dissertation Proposal Template and Qualitative Dissertation Proposal Template (see the Dissertation Guide) are provided as a reference. The proposal manuscript is always reviewed by the chair first. When the chair is satisfied with the proposal manuscript and has given approval, the chair disseminates the proposal manuscript or asks the candidate to provide a copy of the proposal manuscript to the committee for feedback. Once the candidate has incorporated and/or addressed all committee members feedback and the chair approves the manuscript for proposal defense, the chair, or candidate instructed by the chair, provides his or her assigned research consultant with a copy of the manuscript formatted in accordance with the SOE Dissertation Proposal Template, the IRB application, and the quantitative or qualitative Research Consultant Form. It is recommended the items be uploaded to the My Dissertation Portal Submission: Proposal Library and that the research consultant be contacted via e-mail to let them know that the items are ready for their review.

14

Usually within two weeks of submission, the research consultant will provide feedback about the research methodology via the location submitted (My Dissertation Portal Submission: Proposal). It should be recognized that other events may influence this timeline for feedback; the candidate should be mindful of the research consultants schedule (i.e., conferences, intensives, number of manuscript to review, etc.) when submitting documents for review. The feedback received is discussed with the chair and decisions about revisions are made prior to the proposal defense. It should also be noted that the Research Consultants review manuscripts on the semester term calendar; thus, all manuscripts need to be submitted to the consultants at least 3 weeks prior to the end of the semester term to ensure a review before the semester term ends. If the candidate does not have a research consultant; that is, the candidate did not complete EDUC 980, then the dissertation chair submits the three documents outlined above to the Chair of Doctoral Research. The Chair of Doctoral Research will then assign the candidate a research consultant. ***Note: The chair should be included in all communication during the dissertation process; a candidate should not disseminate the manuscript to the committee without the chairs knowledge and approval.

5.1 Technology Task

Share Point: The status list will automatically begin at Proposal Development; the status is updated throughout the dissertation process. The updates will be the responsibility of both the candidate and the chair. Additionally, the candidate updates the task status for certain aspects of the dissertation process. Blackboard: Each semester the candidate is enrolled in EDUC 980 and EDUC 989, the candidate completes the CRC during the first 3 days of the semester term and the course evaluation at the last week of the semester term. In EDUC 989, the chair verifies the roster the first week, on the specified days, of each term. The chair also specifies a grade, P or F, each semester term. The candidate and the chair need to ensure that the candidate enrolls in the chairs EDUC 989 section.

5.3 Schedule a Proposal Defense

Once the candidate has incorporated and/or addressed all feedback, the candidate discusses with the chair his or her readiness for the oral proposal defense and schedules a time for the defense. Ultimately, the chair, with recommendation from the committee members, decides when the manuscript is finished and ready for defense. This decision in based upon the quality and completeness of the manuscript. No other deadlines or priorities will supersede this decision. The candidate should expect that the proposal manuscript will go through multiple revisions before a proposal defense date is established. Upon scheduling the oral proposal defense, the candidate

15 submits his or her manuscript to SafeAssign, the Universitys plagiarism detection software, via the EDUC 989 Manuscript Review Submission Link in Blackboard. The oral defense takes place via Elluminate Live, an e-conferencing system, or a conference call (if the chair prefers). The candidate is responsible for identifying dates and times convenient for the chair, each committee member, and the University regarding the use of facilities (see the SharePoint Calendar). A time, date, and medium is discussed and decided upon between the candidate and the chair. Once a time and date is established, the chair is responsible to contact the Faculty Support Coordinator to schedule the oral defense day and time in Elluminate or arrange for a conference call. The chair is also responsible to contact the Faculty Support Coordinator to identify the date and time of the defense. The Faculty Support Coordinator posts the defense time and date in the SharePoint Dissertation Portal Calendar. The candidate is responsible for informing each committee member of the time, date, and procedures of the defense and providing the final edited copy of the proposal to all of the committee members at least two weeks in advance of the oral defense. The candidate needs to also prepare a 10-15minute proposal presentation of his or her research plans; presentation materials should be provided to the dissertation committee at least one week prior to the scheduled oral defense.

5.2 Technology Task

SharePoint: The candidate updates the status list to Proposal Defense Scheduled. The candidate also updates the Proposal Development Task to successfully completed. Blackboard: Upon scheduling the oral proposal defense, the candidate should submit his or her manuscript to SafeAssign, the Universitys plagiarism detection software, via the EDUC 989 Manuscript Submission Link in Blackboard. The chair may require additional submissions.

5.4 Defend Proposal

The dissertation proposal defense should be approximately 30 to 45 minutes. After prayer and preliminary remarks by the chair, the candidate presents the proposal. The proposal needs to include a description of the study's purpose and significance, the research question and hypothesis, the methods (including the plans for the research design and analysis), and an anticipated timeline for the dissertation process. The presentation is approximately 10-15 minutes. The committee asks questions and provides suggestion. The committee discusses the defense and makes one of the following decisions: Approved with no further or few revisions Provisionally approved with major revisions

16 Not approved with recommendation to revise proposal or rewrite a new proposal.

Following the defense, the chair provides the candidate with a completed Ed.D. Proposal Defense Rubric and the Decision Form summarizing what was discussed at the defense. Additionally, the chair completes the Ed.D. Proposal Defense Survey via a survey system; a link may be found in BlackBoard. All tasks are completed within 2 days of the defense. If revisions are needed, it is recommended that a timeline for revisions be made. A maximum of two proposals may be defended. Failure to successfully defend (i.e., receiving a not approved with recommendation to revise proposal or rewrite a new proposal) within 2 proposals could result in dismissal from the program or needed remediation before progression in the dissertation process. This decision is made by the chair, the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs, and the Chair of Doctoral Research.

5.3 Technology Task

SharePoint: The chair updates the status list to Proposal Successfully Defended or puts the status back to Proposal Development. Additionally, the chair uploads the completed Ed.D. Proposal Defense Rubric and the Proposal Defense Decision Form with digital signatures to the candidates My Dissertation Portal Forms Library. Upon a successful defense, the candidate updates the Proposal Defense Task, successfully completed. Survey System: The chair will need to complete the Ed.D. Proposal Defense Survey (see Dissertation Committee Portal or Bb for link). Elluminate: Complete proposal defense.

VI. IRB
6.1 Submit IRB Application(s)
Internal Review Board (IRB) review and approval is needed. IRB is a federally mandated body, the purpose of which is to ensure ethical treatment of participants in research projects. Research cannot be begun prior to full approval from IRB. Within 5 working days of the approved oral defense, the candidate submits the IRB application to Liberty Universitys Institutional Review Board. As applicable, additional IRB applications should also be submitted (e.g., school system; other university systems, etc.).

6.1 Technology Task

SharePoint: All completed IRB applications should be uploaded to the My Dissertation Portal IRB Library. The candidate updates the status list to IRB Application Submitted.

17

6.2 Receive IRB Approval

Most IRB applications for educational research fall under the expedited or exempt categories and thus usually take approximately two to four weeks for receive approval. However, some IRB processes take longer. Some modifications to the application may be expected. Take care to thoroughly review the IRB website to avoid delays. Execution of research CANNOT be begun prior to receiving IRB approval.

6.2 Technology Task

SharePoint: When the application is approved, the IRB approval letter (s) must be submitted to the My Dissertation Portal IRB library. The candidate updates the status list to IRB Application Approved. This is verified by the chair, IRB Application Approved/ Execute Research/ Manuscript Development. The candidate also updates the IRB Task, successfully completed.

VII. Dissertation
7.1 Execute the Research
After IRB approval is given, the candidate executes his or her research, including data collection and analysis. Please note that depending on the candidates level of comfort, ability, and competence with chosen statistical or qualitative analysis, an outside consultant may be sought. While executing research and developing the dissertation manuscript, the candidate needs to maintain continuous enrollment in EDUC 989 for one term each semester until enrollment in EDUC 990.

7.1 Technology Task

SharePoint: The candidate also updates the Research Execution/ Data Collection Task, successfully completed.

7.2 Develop Final Dissertation Manuscript

Under the guidance of the committee chair, the candidate refines chapters 1-3 and writes chapters 4 and 5. The chair may advise the student to seek guidance from committee members on specific aspects or may advise that the candidate seek an outside editor. The Quantitative

18 Dissertation Template and Qualitative Dissertation Template are provided as references as the candidate refines and writes his or her manuscript. The manuscript is always reviewed by the chair first. When the chair is satisfied with the manuscript and has given approval, the chair, or the candidate under the chairs direction, provides all of committee members with a copy of manuscript. Once committee members have had the opportunity to review the manuscript, they provide feedback. Under the guidance of the chair, the candidate works to incorporate and/or address all feedback. Once the candidate has incorporated and/or addressed all committee members feedback and the chair (along with the committee) approves the manuscript for defense. The chair, or candidate instructed by the chair, provides his or her assigned research consultant with a copy of the manuscript and the quantitative or qualitative Research Consultant Form. This may be done and is recommended to be done via the My Dissertation Portal Submission: Dissertation Library. Within two weeks, the research consultant will provide feedback about the research methodology via the location submitted (My Dissertation Portal Submission: Dissertation). The two week time period may vary based on the Research Consultants schedule. It should also be noted that the Research Consultants review manuscripts on the semester term calendar; thus, all manuscripts need to be submitted to the consultants at least 3 weeks prior to the end of the semester term to ensure a review before the semester term ends. If the candidate does not have a research consultant; that is, the candidate did not complete EDUC 980, then the dissertation chair submits the three documents outlined above to the Chair of Doctoral Research. The Chair of Doctoral Research will then assign the candidate a research consultant. After the research consultants feedback is incorporated and the chair gives approval, the candidate is required to have the manuscript professionally edited. The candidate may employ an editor of his or her choice; however, the candidate should ensure that the editor is proficient in APA.A list of potential editors can be found on the Dissertation Guide Contact page. The Editing Check List needs to be completed by the editor and submitted to the dissertation chair. Prior to the editing process, it is highly recommended that the candidate submit his or her final manuscript to SafeAssign, the Universitys plagiarism software, via Blackboard. All edits suggested should be made prior to the scheduling of defense. Understand that the candidate submits the committee-revised dissertation manuscript to the editor who is an independent contractor and pays all copy editing costs. Note: The chair should be included on all communication with the editor. As in the proposal development stage, through the execution of research and development of final dissertation manuscript, the candidate is encouraged to have frequent contact (i.e., monthly) with the dissertation chair and regular contact with the committee members. Having their ongoing feedback and support increases the probability of a successfully completed dissertation. Additionally, the candidate should expect that the manuscript will go through multiple revisions before a defense date is established.

19

7.2 Technology Task

SharePoint: When the manuscript is submitted for editing, update the dissertation status list to Manuscript Being Edited. When the manuscript is finished being edited, update the dissertation status list to Edit Completed. The edited manuscript and the Editing Check List need to be uploaded to the Form library.

7.3 Schedule a Dissertation Defense (Register for EDUC 990)

The candidate next discusses with the chair his or her readiness for the oral dissertation defense and schedules a time for the defense. Ultimately, the chair with recommendation from the committee members will decide when the manuscript is finished and ready for defense. This decision in based upon the quality and completeness of the manuscript as well as the completion of all content and format edits. No other deadlines or priorities will supersede this decision. The candidate should expect that the manuscript will go through multiple revisions before a defense date is established. Upon the chair's approval and scheduling of the defense, the candidate may register for EDUC 990 (3 hours for candidates who successfully completed the comprehensive evaluation after Fall 2010; 6 hours for candidates who successfully completed the comprehensive evaluation before Fall 2010). Note: In order to register for EDUC 990, the completed manuscript must be approved by the chair by the registration deadline (usually 2 weeks prior to first day of class). The candidate is required to attend the defense on campus; all arrangements should be made by the candidate. The candidate is responsible for identifying dates and times convenient for the chair, each committee member, and the University regarding the use of facilities (See Dissertation Portal calendar) and provide a list of times and dates to the chair. If the dissertation chair and committee members are at a distance, the oral defense takes place on campus and via Elluminate, an e-conferencing system. Distance chair and committee members may attend the defense via e-conferencing. The chair is responsible to contact the Faculty Support Coordinator to schedule the oral defense day and time; this contact should include the provision of the Dissertation Announcement Template to the coordinator. The template is to be completed by the candidate. The Faculty Support Coordinator posts the defense time and date in the SharePoint Dissertation Portal Calendar. The Faculty Support Coordinator also e-mails an Outlook appointment to faculty, staff, and students of LU SOE. The candidate is responsible to inform each committee member of the time and date of the defense and to provide the final edited copy of the dissertation manuscript to all of the committee members, your research consultant, the Chair of Doctoral Research, and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at least two weeks in advance of the oral defense. One to two weeks prior to the defense, the chair, the committee members, and the candidate schedule a pre-defense phone call or e-conferencing session to finalize all the defense details and complete a practice oral defense. At least two weeks prior to the defense, it is also required that the candidate submit his or her final manuscript to SafeAssign, the Universitys plagiarism

20 software, via the Manuscript Submission Link in Blackboard. The chair may require additional submissions. The candidate also prepares a 15-20-minute presentation of his or her research plans for the defense; presentation materials (e.g. PowerPoint, Prezi, etc.) are required. The presentation materials should be sent to the chair and the committee member at least one week prior to the defense. It is also highly recommended that the candidate brings two hard copies of his/her manuscript to defense. The defense date must be scheduled and the defense successfully completed at least four weeks prior to the grading deadline for the semester.

7.3 Technology Task

SharePoint: The candidate updates the status list to Dissertation Defense Scheduled. The candidate also updates the Manuscript Development Task, successfully completed. Blackboard: The candidate should submit his or her final manuscript to SafeAssign, the Universitys plagiarism software, via the EDUC 989 Manuscript Submission Link (found in Step 6) no later than 2 weeks prior to the defense.

7.4 Defend Dissertation

The dissertation defense should be approximately one hour. After prayer and preliminary remarks by the chair, the candidate gives the defense presentation. The presentation needs to include an overview of the studys purpose and significance, the methods, the analysis, the results, limitations, discussion of the findings, and suggestions for future research. The presentation is approximately 15-20 minutes. The PowerPoint for the presentation should be used as an aid. Reading from the PowerPoint or script is not acceptable and may result in an unsuccessful defense. Following the defense presentation, committee asks questions. Then, graduate faculty will be provided with the opportunity to ask questions. Following questions, all individuals, including the candidate, are asked to exit the room to provide the committee the opportunity to discuss the defense. Using the Ed.D. Dissertation Defense Rubric for guidance, the committee will make a decision. The candidate is invited back into the room, and the chair will inform him or her of the decision. The committee makes one of the following decisions: Approved with no further or few revisions Provisionally approved with major revisions Not approved with recommendation to revise dissertation or write a new dissertation.

If the committee makes one of the first two decisions, the chair delineates the required steps for revisions and specifies a timeline for completion (usually 7-30 days). Following the defense, the chair will provide the candidate with a completed Ed.D. Dissertation Defense Rubric and the

21 Decision Form with digital signatures. Additionally, the chair completes the Ed.D. Dissertation Defense Surveys via a survey system. A link is available in Blackboard. All tasks should be completed within 2 days of the defense. It should be noted that, under the discretion of the chair and dependent upon the number of revisions that needed to be made, the candidate may have his or her manuscript professionally re-edited. A maximum of two dissertation manuscripts may be defended. Failure to successfully defend (i.e., Not approved with the recommendation to revise dissertation or write a new dissertation) within 2 defenses could result in dismissal from the program or compliance with remedial procedures before progression in the dissertation process. This decision will be made by the chair, the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs, and the Chair of Doctoral Research.

7.4 Technology Task

SharePoint: The chair will updates the workflow status to Dissertation Successfully Defended or Manuscript Development. Additionally, the chair uploads the completed Ed.D. Dissertation Defense Rubric and the Dissertation Defense Decision Form with digital signatures to the Form Document Library. Upon a successful defense, the student updates the Dissertation Defense Task, successfully completed. Survey System: The chair will need to complete the Ed.D. Dissertation Defense Rubric (see Dissertation Committee Portal or Bb for link). Elluminate: Complete dissertation defense.

7.5 Complete Final Edits of Dissertation

The candidate completes all final edits within the time period specified at the defense (usually 730 days). The final manuscript is submitted to the chair for a final review.

7.5 Technology Task

SharePoint: The candidate updates the status to Manuscript Submitted for Final Approval.

7.6 Obtain Final Approval

Within in two weeks of submitting the final edited copy of the dissertation, the candidate should receive from the chair either suggestions for further revision or approval. Once the manuscript is

22 approved, the chair provides a final grade to the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies. The grade should not be provided until all edits are complete.

7.6 Technology Task

SharePoint: The chair updates the status to Completed.

7.7 Publish Dissertation and Complete Graduation Paperwork

Upon approval from the chair, the candidate follows the ILRC submission guidelines for publication. These guidelines must be strictly followed and can be accessed at http://www.liberty.edu/index.cfm?PID=10522. The candidate is required to furnish bound copies of his or her dissertation to the chair, the committee members, and the LU SOE. The candidate selects Heckman Bindery, cover color 588, gold lettering for the cover, title printed on the spine and the cover, and single-sided printing option. Finally, the candidate must complete requirements and paperwork necessary for graduation and should attend the hooding ceremony and graduation exercises in May. Graduation information may be found at http://www.liberty.edu/index.cfm?PID=10265.

VIII. Dissertation Guidelines

8.1 Dissertation Style
The dissertation is scholarly document written for professionals in a specific field of study. A dissertation typically ranges from 100 to 200 pages excluding appendices and contains a thorough literature review that is typically 30 to 75 pages in length. Some qualitative dissertations may be up to 300 pages in length. The dissertation needs to follow the most recent edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA). Currently, the sixth edition is being used. For qualitative studies, with the approval of the dissertation chair, it is the general policy of the SOE that the personal pronoun I may be used in the candidates manuscript as in accordance with the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association sixth edition (pp.69, 81). The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2010) states, [t]o avoid ambiguity, use a personal pronoun rather than the third person and [f]or clarity, restrict your use of we to refer only to yourself and co authors (use I if you are the sole author of the paper). (p.69). Generally, the personal pronoun I should not be used in chapter two of the dissertation manuscript. Quantitative dissertations should be written in third person.

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8.2 Dissertation Format

The standard format for an LU SOE dissertation is as follows; however, the format may vary based on the type of research being conducted and the chairs approval. Quantitative Dissertation

Title Page. Signature Page. Abstract. Copyright Page.(Optional) Dedication/ Acknowledgments Page.(Optional) Table of Contents. List of Tables. List of Figures. List of Abbreviations. Chapter 1. Introduction. o Review of Related Literature/ Background o Statement of the Problem o Purpose of the Study o Significance of the Study o Research Question(s) o Research Hypothesis(es)/ Null Hypothesis(es) o Identification of Variables/Definition of Terms o Research Plan Chapter 2. Review of the Literature. o Introduction o Review of the Literature (including the theoretical or conceptual framework) o Summary of Research Chapter 3. Methodology. o Introduction o Participants o Setting o Instruments/Data Sources o Procedures/Data Collection o Research Design o Data Analysis Chapter 4. Results/Findings. o Results, including reiteration of each of the hypotheses with evidence for rejection or failure to reject each null hypothesis. Chapter 5. Discussion. o Summary (of Findings) o Discussion (in light of relevant literature) o Limitations o Recommendations for Future Research o Conclusion References.

24 Appendices. o IRB approval o Instruments o Participant Letters

Qualitative Dissertation Title Page. Signature Page. Abstract. Copyright Page. (Optional) Dedication/ Acknowledgments Page. (Optional) Table of Contents. List of Tables. List of Figures. List of Abbreviations. Chapter 1. Introduction o Background o Statement of the Problem o Purpose of the Study o Significance of the Study o Research Questions o Research Plan Chapter 2. Review of the Literature o Introduction o Theoretical/Conceptual Framework o Review of the Literature o Summary of Research Chapter 3. Research Methods (Note: This chapter may be expanded into several chapters depending on the nature of the research.) o Introduction o Research Question(s) o Research Design o Site/ Setting o Subjects/Participants/Population o Procedures o Data Collection o The Researcher's Role or Personal Biography o Data Analysis (These are examples; not all are required) Coding procedures Constant comparison Memoing Data triangulation Data analysis triangulation Transcription Quasi-statistics Trustworthiness

25 Member checks Audit Trail o Ethical Considerations Chapter 4. Findings (Note: This chapter may be expanded into several chapters depending on the nature of the research.) o Introduction o Results (generation of theory, themes, or models) o Relating results to research questions Chapter 5. Conclusions, Discussion, and Suggestions for Future Research o Summary o Discussion o Implications o Delimitations and Limitations o Suggestions for Future Research o Conclusions References Appendices o IRB forms o Sample Transcriptions o Sample Memos

The Quantitative Dissertation Template and Qualitative Dissertation Template are provided as references. The formatting of the prefatory pages must follow the exact format of the templates.

8.3 Dissertation Research Topics

Candidates are encouraged to pursue dissertation topics that are of personal relevance and significance; however, a candidate needs to ensure that the topic is researchable and original (replicable). It is wise to avoid topics that are overly ambiguous, challenging, and esoteric; thus, ensuring that the dissertation process results in successful completion. Conversely, while it makes sense that a candidate selects a topic that is workable, a topic based on convenience must be appropriate and make an original contribution to the field. The dissertation needs to fill a gap in the literature. The candidate should not simply choose a topic because it is an issue being addressed in his or her place of work; he or she should avoid conducting research that only examines his or her place of work in order to avoid researcher bias, especially when conducting quantitative research. The research topic should be within the competence and research interests of potential dissertation chairs. To become familiar with the SOE full-time faculty and their research interests, candidates are encouraged to participate in research teams, visit the dissertation website that lists the faculty and delineates their research interests, and dialogue with faculty through the time of coursework. Failure to align research with interests of faculty could result in difficulty locating a chair and committee members. Furthermore, it should be understood that the dissertation needs to be align with the discipline of education. Faith integration within the dissertation is acceptable and encouraged where appropriate. If a faith perspective is included, it should be well integrated throughout the manuscript and not included as an afterthought or simply tacked on. Additionally, the candidate should be

26 aware that faith integration is not simply the inclusion of scripture, but is also the inclusion of faith-based scholarly works

8.4 Dissertation Research Designs

Dissertations may consist of various research designs; however, all research projects for the purpose of dissertation should include a rigorous production of scientific knowledge. A candidate may choose to utilize true experimental designs, quasi-experimental designs, ex post facto designs, correlation and predictive research designs, or qualitative designs. Candidates are discouraged from employing mixed method-designs. Pre-experimental designs and action research are NOT appropriate for dissertations at this time. Expository research, descriptive research, and program evaluations are not highly encouraged; if used they must be rigorous, quality studies. If pursued, these types of research need to be first approved by the Assistant Dean or Chair of Advanced Programs or the Chair Doctoral Research.

8.5 Academic Honesty

Liberty University and the SOE highly value honesty and integrity. The same principles and expectations of academic honestly and integrity in coursework and the comprehensive examination are true for the dissertation. See The Liberty Way for specific definitions, penalties, and processes of reporting. Also note that according to the plagiarism policy on academic integrity, plagiarism may result in failing the dissertation course with an FD (Failed Dishonesty). However, the final consequences of academic dishonesty will be decided by the dissertation chair, the committee, and the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs. This may include dismissal from the program. It is recognized that the dissertation needs to be an original work of the candidate and the reuse of previous research, masters thesis, publications, etc., is not acceptable. All previous work needs to be cited according to the current edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, and the manuals section on self-plagiarism should be reviewed. Properly crediting another individuals work is also an ethical imperative. The chair may require a candidate to submit his/her dissertation, at any stage of the writing process, to the Universitys plagiarism detection software, SafeAssign

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Appendix

28

Appendix A: Dissertation Committee Qualifications and Responsibilities

The Chair
Qualifications Full-time SOE faculty, residential or LUO Holds an earned doctorate degree Previously served as a committee member or chair on an LU SOE dissertation committee Responsibilities Provides mentorship to doctoral candidate through the dissertation process as outlined in the dissertation handbook, from the development of the prospectus to the final publishing of the dissertation. This includes providing timely and thorough feedback. Provides feedback on doctoral candidates skills and provides necessary referrals for additional support Ensures that the Proposal and the Dissertation Manuscript comply with all university criteria and are acceptable scholarly works, including conformity to content, structure, format, style, and ethical guidelines Ensures frequent communication with candidate and consultation with committee members Communicates with the committee members frequently and welcomes their suggestions for the candidate's manuscript. Updates statuses on SharePoint workflow and completes Blackboard responsibilities as outlined in the dissertation handbook Completes necessary forms and rubrics as outlined in the dissertation handbook Make proposal and dissertation defense arrangements. Committee Member #1 Qualifications Liberty University Employee (e.g., LUO faculty) Holds an earned doctorate degree Responsibilities Provides mentorship to doctoral candidate through the dissertation process as outlined in the dissertation handbook, from the development of the prospectus to the final publishing of the dissertation. This includes providing timely and thorough feedback. Works collaboratively with the committee Chair to guide the student in the dissertation process. Committee Member #2 Qualifications External to Liberty University; it is recommended that this committee member is local to the candidate and/or is employed at the location where candidate is completing research Holds an earned doctorate degree.

29 Responsibilities Provides mentorship to doctoral candidate through the dissertation process as outlined in the dissertation handbook, from the development of the prospectus to the final publishing of the dissertation. This includes providing timely and thorough feedback. Works collaboratively with the committee Chair to guide the student in the dissertation process. Signs the External Committee Member Approval Form.

Communication Policy
When a candidate submits a document for review, a committee member should be allowed at least two weeks for the review process. It should be recognized that other events may influence this timeline, and the candidate should be mindful of their committee members schedules (i.e., conferences, intensives, etc.) when submitting documents for review. If at any point in time a candidate believes that the chair or committee member is being negligent of their responsibilities, the candidate should seek to speak with the chair about his or her concern. If satisfaction or resolution is not obtained, the chair or if necessary the student may seek the guidance of the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs and the Chair of Doctoral Research. Any changes in committees must be approved by the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs and the Chair of Doctoral Research.

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Appendix B: Dissertation Technologies

Blackboard
Blackboard is a content management system. It is used in EDUC 980, EDUC 989, and EDUC 990. Under the supervision of the research consultant, EDUC 980 is completed via Blackboard. The chair and the candidate will have access to EDUC 989 throughout the dissertation process. Blackboard is used to host content that the candidate and chair may find helpful in the dissertation process. Content in the course includes templates, dissertation checklists, statistics tutorials, and research handouts. The chair and the candidate log into the Blackboard course between Monday and Wednesday of the first week of the term. The chair will verify the roster; the candidate will complete the CRC. At the end of each term of EDUC 989, the chair will post a final grade of F or P. The candidate will complete the course evaluation. Note that the candidate will need to be enrolled in the Blackboard course which their chair is facilitating.

SharePoint: The Dissertation Portal

SharePoint is a collaborative workplace and is used as a medium for collaboration during the dissertation process. The SOE SharePoint site is called the Dissertation Portal and has multiple sub sites. This includes the Candidate Portal that houses each candidates workspace. Each candidate is provided with a workspaces, known as My Dissertation Portal, in which only the candidate, the chair, the LU committee members, the research consultants, have access. The candidate and chairs have required tasks within the My Dissertation Portals throughout the dissertation process and candidates and committees are highly encourages to use the portal for collaboration. SharePoint is on a secure (https) server and is backed up regularly. It is a Microsoft program and integrates well with Microsoft Office; Internet Explorer should be used when working in SharePoint. To log into the Dissertation Portal, the user must enter their LU email address and corresponding password when prompted to provide a username and password.

Elluminate Live
Elluminate Live is an e-conferencing system that will be used for both the oral proposal defense and dissertation defense. The Faculty Support Coordinator may be contacted to schedule times and dates for Elluminate use.

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Appendix C: Contacts and Resources

Administration/Support Contacts
Name Dr. Scott Watson Dr. Amanda Rockinson-Szapkiw Ms. Kirsten Hoegh Title Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs Chair of Doctoral Research Faculty Support Coordinator Contact

swatson@liberty.edu aszapkiw@liberty.edu klhoegh@liberty.edu

Research Consultant Contacts

Name Dr. Scott Watson Dr. Amanda Rockinson-Szapkiw Dr. Lucinda Spaulding Dr. David Holder Research Quantitative Quantitative Quantitative/ Qualitative Quantitative Contact swatson@liberty.edu aszapkiw@liberty.edu lsspaulding@liberty.edu deholder@liberty.edu

Internal Web Resources

Resource Committee Search Email LU Graduate Writing Center LU Institutional Review Board LU SOE Dissertation Guide Purpose For aid in forming committees For writing assistance For IRB approval prior to execution of research For information about the dissertation process For organizing references EndNote e-mail/ website committeesearch@liberty.edu graduatewriting@liberty.edu irb@liberty.edu; http://www.liberty.edu/index.cfm?PID=1 2606 http://www.liberty.edu/index.cfm?PID=2 1418 http://www.liberty.edu/informationservic es/ilrc/library/index.cfm?PID=15707

32

Appendix D: Forms

33 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Candidacy Admittance Form

By checking below, I verify that I have done the following:

Completed coursework with at least a 3.0 GPA (attach DCP)

Complied with all applicable requirements of LU SOE requirements

Completed all relevant research courses at Liberty in the SOE Ed.D. program Click here to insert name (Typed Name) Above is the name of the individual who has agreed to serve as my chair once I pass the comprehensive evaluation and an admitted into candidacy. Type unknown if unknown. Work to secure a chair immediately. Resubmit form as soon as chair is secured. Title e-mail Resubmit with Chair. Click here to insert name Doctoral Candidate Signature (Typed Name) Click here to enter a date. Date

Please return the completed form to the Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs and the Faculty Support Coordinator. Thank you.

For Office Use: Successfully completed comprehensive examination Successfully secured all committee members and submitted the following: Doctoral Dissertation Committee form Outside Committee Member Approval Form. Admitted to Candidacy Assigned Research Consultant: Click here to enter text. Click here to enter text. Faculty Support Coordinator Signature Click here to enter a date. Date

34
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Committee Member Form

Student Click here to enter text. Date Click here to enter a date.

Committee Members Please type the names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of committee members below.

Committee Chair

Click to insert name here. Click here to enter e-mail. Click to insert name here. Click here to enter e-mail. Click to insert name here. Click here to enter e-mail.

LU Committee Member

External Committee Member

Electronic Signatures:

Click here to enter text. Student Click here to enter text. Chair of Dissertation Committee

Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date

Please return the completed form to the Chair of Doctoral Research (committeesearch@liberty.edu) and the Faculty Support Coordinator. Thank you.

35
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Outside Committee Member Form

Full Name: LU Doctoral Candidate: Address: Phone Number: Fax Number: Alt. Phone Number: Email: Social Security Number (for payment purposes): Date:

Education

Degree Held

Date Obtained

Experience

Date/s of experience

Click here to enter text. Chair of Dissertation Committee

Click here to enter a date. Date

Click here to enter text. Click here to enter a date. Assistant Dean of Advanced Programs/ Doctoral Research Date Please return the completed form to the Faculty Support Coordinator. Thank you.

36
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Proposal Defense Rubric and Decision Form

Date: Click here to enter a date. Doctoral Candidate: Click here to enter text. Dissertation Proposal Title: Click here to enter text. Committee Decision: Approved with no further or few revisions Provisionally approved with major revisions Not approved with recommendation to revise proposal or rewrite a new proposal
Explain decision (as applicable):

List revisions needed:

Student included the LU IRB application and other necessary IRB applications in the written proposal. Click here to enter text. Student Click here to enter text. Dissertation Chair Click here to enter text. Dissertation Committee Member Click here to enter text. Dissertation Committee Member Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date

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2015 EdD Dissertation Defense Rubric EDUC 989 Category & Approx. Time Introduction Learning Outcome A.1, B.4 Literature Review Learning Outcome A.1, B.7 Target Clearly and succinctly introduces the audience to the dissertation topic demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge and critical interaction of relevant literature; seminal and/or foundational research is present or integrated in presentation (for example citing recognized experts in field) delineates and defends an appropriate conceptual support system clearly summates the literature review by defending the necessity of the study and the research gap it will help fill explicitly articulates and defends the research methodology; noting potential limitations thoroughly describes all data collection procedures extensively explains and defends the analysis process; demonstrates a valid and reliable study poised, clearly and fluently relays information, refrains from using silence fillers (um, like, ah, and), appropriate and innovative use of presentation methods confidently answers committee and guest faculty questions in a comprehensible and appropriate manner Acceptable introduces the audience to the dissertation topic demonstrates some knowledge and critical interaction of relevant literature; seminal and/or foundational research is present or integrated in presentation delineates or defends an appropriate conceptual support system defends the necessity of the study and the research gap it will help fill explicitly articulates or defends the research methodology; noting potential limitations describes all data collection procedures explains and defends the analysis process; demonstrates a valid and reliable study clearly and fluently relays information, refrains from using silence fillers (um, like, ah, and), appropriate use of presentation methods answers committee and guest faculty questions in a comprehensible and appropriate manner Unacceptable introduction is limited and/or inapplicable limited literature and/or foundational research; review may be unclear

Theoretical Framework Learning Outcome A.1 Need for this Study Learning Outcome B.8 Methodology Learning Outcome A.2, B.8 Data Collection Learning Outcome B.6, B.9 Data Analysis Learning Outcome B.6, B.7, B.9 Communication: Presentation Learning Outcome B.4 Communication: Defense Learning Outcome A.4, B.5, C.10

brief or non-existent conceptual support system the need for the study is implied research design is unclear data collection procedures are mentioned explains the data analysis process relays information, presentation may be missing items or appear confusing answers some committee and guest faculty questions

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2015 Ed.D. Written Dissertation Rubric EDUC 989 3 Points- Advanced 2 Points- Proficient 1 Point- Developing Conveyed project within Project moderately Vaguely conveyed project context of literature. conveyed in context of in context of literature. Moderately-strong rationale. literature. Moderately clear Weak rationale. Purpose Purpose was clear and rationale. Purpose was was poorly focused and not focused. somewhat focused and sufficiently clear. clear. Comprehensive review of literature relevant to the study. Moderately well organized. Some mention of the relatedness of scholarship. Moderately clear rationale for choice of theoretical perspectives/ empirical studies. Somewhat focused description of research samples, methodologies, & findings. Moderate or excessive description of (if applicable): subjects, design/approach, methods/procedures, and statistical analyses. The dissertation is moderately clear. Several errors in word choice, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. The narrative lacks focus. Uneven application of 5th edition APA conventions. Inadequate review of literature relevant to the study. Poorly organized. Weak rationale for choice of theoretical perspectives/empirical studies. Insufficient description of research samples, methodologies, & findings.

1 Introduction Learning Outcome A.1 Learning Outcome B.4, B.5 Comprehensive review of 2 Review of literature relevant to the Literature study. Well organized, with Learning nuanced critique regarding Outcome A.1, the relatedness of the B.7 research and scholarship reviewed. Includes specific criteria for inclusion/exclusion of various theoretical perspectives/ empirical studies. Clearly describes research samples, methodologies, & findings. Appropriate detail in 3 Methods/ description of (if applicable): Approach Learning subjects, design/approach, Outcome B.6, methods/procedures, and B.9 statistical analyses. 4 Writing Quality

Inadequate description of (if applicable): subjects, design/approach, methods/procedures, and statistical analyses.

The dissertation is unclear The dissertation is written throughout. Frequent errors with great clarity and in word choice, grammar, precision. Each sentence is punctuation, and spelling. Learning understandable. Word The narrative discussion Outcome B.4 choice, grammar, lacks focus and coherence. punctuation, and spelling are Frequent errors in use of excellent. The narrative is 5th edition APA logical and coherent. Correct conventions. use of 6th edition APA. Comments : [This rubric was adapted from the San Diego State University Student Research Symposium rubric.] Total:

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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Dissertation Announcement Template

Defense Date and Time: Click here to enter text. Dissertation Title: Click here to enter text. Dissertation Abstract:

Biographical Information

Click here to enter text. Doctoral Candidate Signature (Typed Name)

Click here to enter a date. Date

Please send completed form to and the Faculty Support Coordinator. Thank you.

40
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Editing Checklist
Candidates Name: Click here to enter text. Dissertation Title: Click here to enter text. Check the proofreading that applies: Initial Proofreading Click here to enter a date. (Date) Click here to enter a date. Subsequent rounds (if needed) Click here to enter text. (Date) Click here to enter a date. Please check the Y box to indicate that the following has been completed in a satisfactory manner:
Formatting
Page order: The order of the pages is as follows: Title page, Signature page, Abstract, Dedication/ Acknowledgement (optional), Table of Contents, List of Tables, List of Figures, List of Abbreviations, Manuscript Chapters, References, Appendices Margins: The margins for all chapters of the dissertation are as follows: 1 inch at the top and bottom, 1 inch on the right side, and 1.5 inch on the left side (for binding purposes). 1 .5 inch top margins for the prefatory pages, for the first page of each chapter, and for the first page of the references. Text and Justification: All text is Times New Roman, 12 point font. Text within the body of the manuscript should be left justified. Page Counts and Numbers: Page numbers are centered, 1 inch from the bottom of the page. The prefatory pages are numbered using Roman Numerals; the body of the dissertation is numbered using Arabic numerals. The counting of pages begins with the title page; however, the page number is not put on the title page. The copy right page, the signature page, and the abstract page are not counted nor numbered. The dedication page is the first page after the title page that is counted and numbered (i.e. ii). Title Page: The title page includes the tile of the manuscript, the author, the university supervising the research, and the date completed.. The title should reflect the research completed and should be 10 words of less. 1 .5 inch top margins are used; a running head is NOT included. Abstract: The abstract clearly and succinctly summarizes the contents of the manuscript and is 120 words or less. It is contained on a separate page following the title and signature page. The word ABSTRACT should be in all caps and a Level 1 heading, centered, 1.5 inches from the top of the page. Table of Contents: The Table of Contents lists the various chapters and subsections of the manuscript along with their page numbers. The

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table of contents includes the acknowledgement, list of tables, list of figures, CHAPTER TITLES (all caps), REFERNCES (all caps), and APPENDIX (all caps). It is justified left. The subsections included are only be level 1 and level 2 headings within the manuscript. Level 1 headings are indented one-half inch. Entries should be double spaced. Page number are inserted in the footer, centered, lowercase roman numerals. List of Tables: The List of Tables cite the tables and the corresponding pages of each table. The title of this page is a Level 1 heading, centered, 1.5 inches from the top of the page. Entries are double spaced. Page number is inserted in the footer, centered, lowercase roman numerals. List of Figures: The List of Figures cites the figures and the corresponding pages of each figure. The title of this page is a Level 1 heading, centered, 1.5 inches from the top of the page. Entries are double spaced. Page number is inserted in the footer, centered, lowercase roman numerals. List of Abbreviations: The List of Abbreviations identifies the phrase and corresponding abbreviation or acronym used. The list should be in alphabetical order. Each phrase should be listed and the abbreviation or acronym in parentheses [e.g. Higher Education (HE)]. The title of this page is a Level 1 heading, centered, 1.5 inches from the top of the page. Entries are double spaced. Page number is inserted in the footer, centered, lowercase roman numerals. Chapters: The chapter numbers are written rather than in numerical form. The entire chapter tile are capitalized, centered, 1.5 inches from the top of the page. Titles longer than one line are single spaced.

APA, Grammar, Spelling

Style: The entire manuscript, including references, follows the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), the sixth edition. Grammar: Proper grammar is used and follows the rules outlined in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), the sixth edition (e.g. verb tense consistent throughout, minimal usage of to be verbs, pronoun-antecedent agreement and subject-verb agreement, parallel construction, varied in structure, rhythm, and length, full sentences). Punctuation : Punctuation is used correctly and follows the rules outlined in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), the sixth edition. Spelling: The manuscript is free from misspelled words. Word Choice: Word choice clear, concise, and precise, Is jargon, figures of speech, anthropomorphism, editorial we and colloquialism avoided. Non bias language is used. Voice: Active voice is primarily used throughout the manuscript. Quotes: Quotes are cited correctly (over 50 words are formatted as a block quote. Numbers: APA rules for numbers used. Tables and Figures: If tables and figures are used, they are formatted APA style.

Comments

Flow of Thought; Paragraph and Sentences Structure

The writing is logical, organized, and coherent fashion. The paragraphs flow smoothly from one to another and transitional

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sentences used between paragraphs. Paragraphs have a thesis sentences. All sentences within the paragraph support the thesis sentence Sentences are clear and concise (e.g. look at one or two of the sentences and consider if they could be written using less words without losing meaning). Redundancy is avoided.

Please list any revisions that were recommended:

Signature of proofreader: ________________________ Date: ___________

Please return the completed form to your dissertation chair and upload to SharePoint. Thank you.

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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Dissertation Defense Rubric and Decision Form

Date: Click here to enter a date. Doctoral Candidate: Click here to enter text. Dissertation Proposal Title: Click here to enter text. Committee Decision: Approved with no further or few revisions Provisionally approved with major revisions Not approved with recommendation to revise proposal or rewrite a new proposal
Explain decision (as applicable):

List revisions needed:

Student included the LU IRB application and other necessary IRB applications in the written proposal. Click here to enter text. Student Click here to enter text. Dissertation Chair Click here to enter text. Dissertation Committee Member Click here to enter text. Dissertation Committee Member Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date Click here to enter a date. Date

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2015 EdD Dissertation Defense Rubric EDUC 990 Category & Approx. Time Introduction Learning Outcome A.1, B.4 Literature Review Learning Outcome A.1, B.7 Target Clearly and succinctly introduces the audience to the dissertation topic demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge and critical interaction of relevant literature; seminal and/or foundational research is present or integrated in presentation (for example citing recognized experts in field) delineates and defends an appropriate conceptual support system clearly summates the literature review by defending the necessity of the study and the research gap it will help fill explicitly articulates and defends the research methodology; noting potential limitations thoroughly describes all data collection procedures extensively explains and defends the analysis process; demonstrates a valid and reliable study explicitly depicts and justifies the study results the findings, current research, and the theoretical framework are all seamlessly interwoven into the educational environment poised, clearly and fluently relays information, refrains from using silence fillers (um, like, ah, and), appropriate and innovative use of presentation methods confidently answers committee and guest faculty questions in a comprehensible and appropriate manner Acceptable introduces the audience to the dissertation topic demonstrates some knowledge and critical interaction of relevant literature; seminal and/or foundational research is present or integrated in presentation delineates or defends an appropriate conceptual support system defends the necessity of the study and the research gap it will help fill explicitly articulates or defends the research methodology; noting potential limitations describes all data collection procedures explains and defends the analysis process; demonstrates a valid and reliable study depicts and justifies the study results the findings, current research, and the theoretical framework are interwoven into the educational environment clearly and fluently relays information, refrains from using silence fillers (um, like, ah, and), appropriate use of presentation methods answers committee and guest faculty questions in a comprehensible and appropriate manner Unacceptable introduction is limited and/or inapplicable limited literature and/or foundational research; review may be unclear

Theoretical Framework Learning Outcome A.1 Need for this Study Learning Outcome B.8 Methodology Learning Outcome A.2, B.8 Data Collection Learning Outcome B.6, B.9 Data Analysis Learning Outcome B.6, B.7, B.9 Findings Learning Outcome A.3 Conclusion Learning Outcome SCRIP, A.4 Communication: Presentation Learning Outcome B.4 Communication: Defense Learning Outcome A.4, B.5, C.10

brief or non-existent conceptual support system the need for the study is implied research design is unclear data collection procedures are mentioned explains the data analysis process discusses the study results the educational implications are discussed relays information, presentation may be missing items or appear confusing answers some committee and guest faculty questions

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2015 Ed.D. Written Dissertation Rubric EDUC 990 3 Points- Advanced 2 Points- Proficient 1 Point- Developing Project moderately conveyed Vaguely conveyed project in 1 Introduction Conveyed project within Learning context of literature. in context of literature. context of literature. Weak Outcome A.1 Moderately-strong rationale. Moderately clear rationale. rationale. Purpose was poorly Learning Purpose was clear and focused. Purpose was somewhat focused and not sufficiently Outcome B.4, focused and clear. clear. B.5 Inadequate review of Comprehensive review of Comprehensive review of 2 Review of literature relevant to the study. literature relevant to the literature relevant to the study. Literature study. Poorly organized. Moderately well organized. Well organized, with nuanced Weak rationale for Some mention of the Learning critique regarding the choice of theoretical relatedness of scholarship. Outcome A.1, relatedness of the research and Moderately clear rationale for perspectives/empirical scholarship reviewed. Includes B.7 studies. Insufficient choice of theoretical specific criteria for description of research perspectives/ empirical inclusion/exclusion of various samples, methodologies, & studies. Somewhat focused theoretical perspectives/ findings. description of research empirical studies. Clearly samples, methodologies, & describes research samples, findings. methodologies, & findings. Appropriate detail in Moderate or excessive Inadequate description of (if 3 Methods/ description of (if applicable): description of (if applicable): applicable): subjects, Approach Learning subjects, design/approach, subjects, design/approach, design/approach, Outcome B.6, methods/procedures, and methods/procedures, and methods/procedures, and B.9 statistical analyses. statistical analyses. statistical analyses. All pertinent results reported Some pertinent results not Few pertinent results. 4 Results/ and in clear and concise reported; results presented in Table/figures are Outcomes manner. Table/figures are clear and concise manner. inappropriate or incomplete, Learning labeled appropriately and Table/figures generally poorly labeled, and Outcome B.7, included legend. labeled appropriately and inadequate legend. B.8 included legend. Brief and concise discussion of Discussion is too Major topics or concepts 5 Discussion brief/excessive, needs to be inaccurately described. and Summary major findings/outcomes. Was superior, accurate, engaging, more concise of major Considerable relevant Learning and thought-provoking. findings/outcomes. Several discussion missing. Outcome B.6, Conclusions/summaries and inaccuracies and omissions. Conclusions/summary not C.10, SCRIP recommendations appropriate Conclusions/summary entirely supported by and clearly based on outcomes. generally based on findings/outcomes. findings/outcomes. The dissertation is written with The dissertation is moderately The dissertation is unclear 6 Writing great clarity and precision. clear. Several errors in word throughout. Frequent errors in Quality Each sentence is choice, grammar, punctuation, word choice, grammar, Learning understandable. Word choice, and spelling. The narrative punctuation, and spelling. The Outcome B.4 grammar, punctuation, and lacks focus. Uneven narrative discussion lacks spelling are excellent. The application of 5th edition APA focus and coherence. Frequent narrative is logical and conventions. errors in use of 5th edition coherent. Correct use of 6th APA conventions. edition APA. Comments : [This rubric was adapted from the San Diego State University Student Research Symposium rubric.] Total:

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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Research Consultant Form: Quantitative Research

When submitting your manuscript to a research consultant for review, please complete and submit the following form. This form should be no longer than 1-3 pages. Keep your descriptions brief.
Candidates Name and e-mail: Chairs Name and e-mail: Title: Purpose/ Problem Statement:
Research Question #1 Hypothesis (es) #1 Independent Variable and Measurement Dependent Variable and Measurement Research Design Analysis Setting Participants Brief Description of Procedures Research Question #2 Hypothesis(es) #2 Independent Variable and Measurement Dependent Variable and Measurement Research Design Analysis Setting Participants Brief Description of Procedures Research Question #3 Hypothesis (es) #3 Independent Variable and Measurement

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Dependent Variable and Measurement Research Design Analysis Setting Participants Brief Description of Procedures

Research Consultant Comments:

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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF EDUCATION DOCTORATE OF EDUCATION

Research Consultant Form: Qualitative Research

When submitting your manuscript to a research consultant for review, please complete and submit the following form. This form should be no longer than 1-3 pages. Keep your descriptions brief.
Candidates Name and e-mail: Chairs Name and e-mail: Title: Purpose:
Focus of Inquiry Potential Guiding Questions Participants Site Design Brief Research Perspective Data collection Data analysis Delimitations

Research Consultant Comments:

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Click here to enter a date.