Research Seminar III: Hypotheses & Theory Development

Catalog description

In this instructor led seminar, students, in consultation with Dissertation Chair, will develop hypotheses for their research question. Based on the focused literature review in Research Seminar II, these hypotheses should be linked to relevant theories. Students will present their research questions, hypotheses and underlying theories to their peers. This work will culminate in a research paper focused around the dissertation research question, contextualizing the question within the relevant literature, demonstrating an understanding of the relevant theories, and proposing a testable hypothesis. Research paper generated from this seminar will be part of the dissertation. The instructor will design the class to achieve the goals of the seminar through structured steps, assignments, directional advice, and a peer-learning and supportive community. Students will be evaluated based on the research paper and their presentations.