Need 2 page APA format paper
Module 1: Dissertation Outline
In 250-300 words outline your dissertation topic and goals for this semester as they relate to your dissertation course. If you do not have a dissertation topic please revert those you are considering. Also, include ways that you could improve your dissertation, as well as areas you may be struggling with.
Course Summary
Course Number and Name
ITS 839 – Advanced
Research
Methods
Course Instructor
Professor Dr Jessica Schwartz
Email:
Jessica.schwartz@ucumberlands.edu
Course Term and Delivery
Fall 2020 – MAIN
Residency Class Dates: October 2-4, 2020 (Washington, DC)
Class Room: Online via Blackboard Communicate
Catalog Course Description
The course is designed to provide doctoral students with an in-depth analysis of the methods and procedures of research used in the various subfields of education. Topics include conceptualizing research designs, writing research proposals, constructing measurement instruments, collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, and drawing inferences. Special attention is given to making sound decisions regarding the selection of appropriate designs and methods for investigating research questions. The student will develop a proposal that will serve as the first three chapters of student’s dissertation upon approval of the student’s advisor and program director.
Course Objectives
Course Learning Objectives
Describe the types of research designs
Explain the concept of literature review in research
Describe appropriate methodologies used in different research designs Describe ethical issues in research
Examine the process of drawing inferences in research
· Explain the components of a dissertation proposal
Course Structure
· Watch weekly lecture
· Participate in class discussion via iLearn forums
· Reading assigned texts
· Complete weekly homework assignments
University of the Cumberlands
School of Computer and Information Sciences
ITS 839 – Advanced Research Methods
Page 1
Learning Materials and References
Required Resources
Textbook(s)
Required:
· Creswell, J. W. & Creswell, D. J. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.
· American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Optional:
· Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods (4th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.
· Roberts, C. M. (2010). The Dissertation Journey: A Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation (4th ed.). Corwin Publishers.
Evaluation and Grading
Course Assignments and Evaluation Criteria
Grading will be based on accumulated points of each graded requirement in the course distributed as described in the table below:
Required Assignments* |
||
Assignment |
Description |
Weight |
Chapter 1 |
50% |
|
Chapter 3 |
||
COMPS and IRB approval will be completed during DSRT839 as well. |
||
TOTAL |
100% |
· Assignments may change at the discretion of the professor and changes in the assignments will be announced in class. Students are responsible for noting and completing any changes in assignments.
Course Expectations
Class Participation
Students are expected to:
1. Be fully prepared for each class session by studying the assigned reading material and preparation of the material assigned.
2. Participate in group discussions, assignments, and panel discussions.
3. Complete specific assignments when due and in a professional manner.
4. Take exams when specified on the attached course schedule
Academic Integrity
At a Christian liberal arts University committed to the pursuit of truth and understanding, any act of academic dishonesty is especially distressing and cannot be tolerated. In general, academic dishonesty involves the abuse and misuse of information or people to gain an undeserved academic advantage or evaluation. The common forms of academic dishonesty include:
a. cheating – using deception in the taking of tests or the preparation of written work, using unauthorized materials, copying another person’s work with or without consent, or assisting another in such activities
b. lying—falsifying, fabricating, or forging information in either written, spoken, or video presentations
c. plagiarism—using the published writings, data, interpretations, or ideas of another without proper documentation
Episodes of academic dishonesty are reported to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The potential penalty for academic dishonesty includes a failing grade on a particular assignment, a failing grade for the entire course, or charges against the student with the appropriate disciplinary body.
Students with Disabilities
Students who may have a disability meriting an academic accommodation should contact Mr. Jacob Ratcliff, the Disabilities Services Coordinator, in the Student Services Office. For accommodations to be awarded, a student must complete an Accommodations Application and provide documentation of the disability to the Disability Services Coordinator. Any accommodations for disabilities must be re- certified each semester by the Academic Affairs Office before course adjustments are made by individual instructors.
Student Responsibilities
1. Students are expected to login several times per week to participate in class discussions.
2. Students are expected to find out if any changes have been made in the class or assignment schedule.
3. Students are expected to be self-motivating in an online, asynchronous course.
Tentative Course Outline*
Note: Assignments in the following table are listed when they are due.
Week |
Weekly Topic |
Reading |
Assignment Due** |
||
#1 |
Research Approach |
Ch. 1 |
Introductions (Due Wednesday, Week 1) Week 1 Discussion |
||
#2 |
Review of Literature *Schedule COMPS exam! |
Ch 2 |
Week 2 Discussion |
||
#3 |
Theory, Writing Strategies and Ethical Consideration |
Ch. 3 |
Homework Assignment 1: Chapter 1 outline |
||
#4 |
Ch 4 |
Week 4 Discussion |
|||
#5 |
The Introduction |
Ch. 5 |
Get ready for residency and continue working on chapter 1 |
||
#6 |
The Purpose Statement |
Ch. 6 |
Homework Assignment 2: Chapter 1 Draft |
||
#7 |
Research
Questions and Hypotheses |
Ch. 7 |
Week 7 Discussion |
||
#8 |
Week 8 Discussion |
||||
#9 |
Quantitative Design Procedures |
Ch. 8 |
Chapter 1 Final Submission |
||
#10 |
Qualitative Design Procedures |
Ch. 9 |
Week 10 Discussion |
||
#11 |
Qualitative vs Quantitative |
Homework Assignment 4: Methodology Outline (Chapter 3) |
|||
#12 |
Mixed Methods Procedures |
Ch. 10 |
Week 12 Discussion |
||
#13 |
Chapter 3 |
Homework Assignment 5: Methodology Draft (Chapter 3) |
|||
#14 |
Review Feedback |
Review Feedback/work on Chapter 3 updates |
|||
#15 |
Course Review |
Chapter 3 Final Submission |
|||
#16 |
Final Submission |
Also work on IRB approval |
Chapters 1-3 Submitted together |
Updated 7.6.2020
Implemented: Fall 2020
GRADUATE SCHOOL
DOCTORAL RESEARCH HANDBOOK
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 2
Table of Contents
Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
Doctoral Program and Research Process ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
Purpose of the Handbook…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3
Doctoral Research Committee ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3
Choosing Committee Members ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3
Committee chair responsibilities. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
Responsibilities of other committee members ………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
Candidate Responsibilities ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
Doctoral Research Guidelines ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6
Choosing a Research Topic ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6
Doctoral Research Timeline …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
Doctoral Research Probation Process ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
Doctoral Research Style ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
Quantitative Research …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
Traditional Five Chapter Quantitative Dissertation ………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Applied Research …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
Qualitative Dissertations …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Mixed-Methods Dissertations ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
Final Document ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
Doctoral Research Approval Process ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
Oral Defense………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11
Graduation …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
Appendix A: Quantitative Dissertation (Traditional Five Chapter Format) ………………………………………………………. 13
Appendix B: Quantitative Dissertation (Applied Research Format) ………………………………………………………………… 15
Appendix C: Qualitative and Mixed Methods Dissertation Information …………………………………………………………… 17
Appendix D: Doctoral Research Evaluation Rubric ………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
Appendix E: Reporting Statistical Tests ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 3
Introduction
Doctoral Program and Research Process
The Graduate School at the University of the Cumberlands offers Doctor of Business
Administration, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The doctoral research,
designed to evaluate the candidate’s capabilities as a scholar, is the final academic requirement
of the DBA, EdD, and PhD programs. Candidates complete the doctoral research during
professional research courses (DSRT 736, 839, 930, 931), which are the last four courses taken
during the program. This handbook sets forth the guidelines for completing the doctoral research
process.
Purpose of the Handbook
The purpose of this handbook is to guide candidates through the doctoral research
process, including developing the research, the oral defense, and final document submission.
The handbook outlines candidate and committee member responsibilities, defines writing
guidelines, identifies required sections for each chapter, and provides printing guidelines for
the
final dissertation document. The handbook is to be used by instructors, dissertation chairs,
and
committee members to ensure high standards related to the form and appearance of dissertations.
Doctoral Research Committee
Doctoral research committees are made up of three members, including the chair, and
two committee members. Each member has specific responsibilities, as outlined below.
Choosing Committee Members
While enrolled in DSRT 930, the candidate and the chair will identify instructors to serve
on his/her dissertation committee. The DSRT course instructor will serve as the chair. Other
members are to be instructors teaching at the graduate level at the University of the
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 4
Cumberlands. These members should be chosen based on doctoral research topic expertise and
candidate needs. The chairs will provide candidates with a list of instructors available to serve on
committees. The committee member request form is submitted to the academic department, and
any committee changes must be resubmitted to the academic department.
Committee chair responsibilities.
Responsibilities of the committee chair include:
Advising the candidate through the doctoral research process.
Guiding the candidate in the selection of two additional committee members.
Assisting the candidate in meeting deadlines for completion of the
doctoral research.
Assisting the candidate in navigating the IRB approval process.
Guiding the candidate in achieving a high level of technical and ethical quality in
doctoral research.
Advising the candidate in the selection of methods/procedures for data collection and
analysis.
Advising the candidate in proper APA style.
Determining when a document is ready for review by the committee and communicate
such with committee members. The candidate should avoid consulting the full committee
for feedback without prior approval of the chair.
Advising the candidate in preparation for the dissertation defense.
Notifying the department chair of the date, time, and location of all dissertation defense
meetings.
Submitting the defense scoring rubric from committee members to the department chair
promptly after the defense.
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 5
Submitting a print-ready copy of the doctoral research to the department chair before the
anticipated graduation date of the candidate.
Responsibilities of other committee members
Responsibilities of other committee members include:
Providing subject matter expertise as requested by the chair or candidate.
Reading drafts and providing meaningful feedback.
Corresponding with the chair and candidate as needed for clarification and resolution of
methodological issues during the dissertation process.
Immediately notifying candidate and doctoral research chair when major flaws that are
likely to result in a candidate’s unsuccessful defense are identified.
Signing the signature page of the dissertation promptly.
Candidate Responsibilities
Responsibilities of the doctoral research candidate include:
Coordinating with the chair to select committee members based on expertise in the
doctoral research topic area. The candidate is encouraged to select at least one member
with expertise in data collection and analysis.
Completing the IRB process to obtain approval for research before collecting data.
Choosing a topic, submitting proofread drafts of materials to the chair, preparing
adequately for consultations, and communicating regularly with the chair.
Contacting the chair in the event of any significant change in the personal or professional
situation which may interfere with program completion.
Successfully defending research.
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 6
Submitting an error-free, print-ready copy of the dissertation as a pdf document to the
dissertation chair and the academic department promptly after a successful defense.
Doctoral Research Guidelines
Choosing a Research Topic
Candidates begin thinking about doctoral research topics when applying for admission to
the program. The doctoral research topics must be grounded in theory, related to program goals,
and have implications for practitioners. Candidates are encouraged to choose research topics of
personal relevance and significance. When opportunities arise in coursework, candidates should
begin researching these topics in the form of literature reviews and other assignments that allow
for research. The research topic will be narrowed to a research study and approved by the
department chair/director when candidates enroll in the first doctoral research course, DSRT 736.
The Graduate School provides a link for topic approval in the DSRT 736 course.
Doctoral Research Timeline
Candidates submit the topic approval form in 736, and the academic department
coordinates the topic approval process with the 736-course professor. Candidates complete the
review of the literature (Chapter Two) while enrolled in DSRT 736. Completing DSRT 736 is a
requirement for enrolling in DSRT 839. While enrolled in DSRT 839, candidates complete
Chapter One, the introduction to the study, and Chapter Three, the methodology section.
Candidates must apply for approval for their research from the Institutional Review Board while
enrolled in DSRT 839. IRB approval is required before collecting any data.
A completed Chapter One, Two, and Three are required before candidates enroll in
DSRT 930. Candidates complete Chapter Four, which presents their research findings, while
enrolled in DSRT 930. Once enrolled in DSRT 931, candidates complete Chapter Five. In
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 7
Chapter Five, candidates interpret their findings, discuss implications of those findings, present
recommendations for further study and action, and discuss how their study fills a gap in the
literature and contributes to the field of study. The doctoral research committee, Graduate
School Quality Control representative and the APA editor will recommend the doctoral research
for oral defense when it meets the Graduate School Guidelines. Candidates orally defend their
doctoral research while enrolled in DSRT 931-932, which is the final step in the doctoral
research process. After a successful defense, candidates submit a pdf of the approved doctoral
research with the signature sheet to the academic department. At that time, the Program Director
recommends the candidates for graduation.
The DBA, EdD, and PhD programs are designed for doctoral research to be completed in
four courses. Candidates needing additional time may enroll in additional courses providing the
total time in the program does not exceed five years. Department chairs or Program Directors
must approve enrollment in courses beyond DSRT 931.
Doctoral Research Probation Process
To protect the doctoral research timeline, the following probation process is proposed. This
follows our academic probation process. A “missed deadline” occurs when a student does not
satisfactorily pass any dissertation course and is forced to repeat the course OR when a student
does not complete the doctoral research in the prescribed timeline and begins taking additional
courses toward degree completion (DSRT 932).
1st missed deadline – Student is placed on academic probation.
2nd missed deadline – Student is removed from and prohibited from participating in CPT.
3rd missed deadline – Student is dismissed from the program.
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 8
Doctoral Research Style
The doctoral research, a scholarly document, is written for professionals in the field. The
research questions at hand primarily determine the dissertation style. For instance, a student may
utilize an existing database to evaluate their hypotheses. Access to the database as originally
published is highly encouraged. Alternatively, they could build a novel testing or survey
instrument to gather data needed for their study. Another example may employ an in-depth
comparative case study.
Moreover, a dissertation can center around the development of a piece of software or
business model that addresses a significant need or issue in the literature or industry. Ultimately,
the doctoral research will fall into one of the following broad outlines: a quantitative, qualitative,
or mixed-methods study. The seventh edition of the Publication Manual of the American
Psychological Association (APA) is the style manual to be used in writing the doctoral research.
Candidates should follow all APA guidelines.
Quantitative Research
While there is no set number of pages, quantitative research typically includes
approximately 100 pages. This word requirement applies to the text of the dissertation only; it
does not cover the title page, acknowledgments, table of contents, or other non-content related
pages. There are two options for the quantitative research: Traditional five chapter dissertation
or Applied Research. There is additional information on reporting statistical results in Appendix
E.
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 9
Traditional Five Chapter Quantitative Dissertation
The traditional quantitative dissertation follows a five-chapter format and a deductive
approach. The required sections for the five chapters of the quantitative dissertation are located
in Appendix A.
Applied Research
The Applied Research Option, designed to extend or apply research, is a second option
for the quantitative dissertation of the DBA, EdD, and PhD programs. The applied research
option may include software or application development. Candidates complete the Applied
Research during professional research courses (DSRT 736, 839, 930, 931), which are the last
four courses taken during the program (See Appendix B).
Qualitative Dissertations
Unlike the quantitative dissertations, which follow a five-chapter format, the qualitative
dissertation is not bound by those requirements. Rather, the qualitative dissertation should be
approximately 45,000 words. This word requirement applies to the text of the dissertation only; it
does not cover the title page, acknowledgments, table of contents, or other non-content related
pages. Thus, with a small indulgence in tautology, the dissertation should be as long as it needs
to be, as long it meets the minimum word requirement (See Appendix C).
Mixed-Methods Dissertations
The program director must approve the mixed-methods dissertation methodology, and the
dissertation committee will provide guidance and expertise on the formatting requirements for this
type of dissertation (See Appendix C).
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 10
Final Document
The final doctoral research document must be submitted while enrolled in the last
research course, typically DSRT 931. The candidates submit an error-free, print-ready copy final
doctoral research documents after the successful oral defense. The final doctoral research must
include all committee members, Graduate School Quality Control representative, and APA editor
recommended edits in the final pdf document. The copy is to be submitted electronically to the
academic program. If a candidate would like bound doctoral research copies, then he or she may
submit two printed copies (using white, 24 lb. résumé paper) of the doctoral research to the
academic program office before the designated semester deadline. After having those copies
bound, the UC Binding Department will return the two copies to the candidate. If the candidate
wishes to request more than two bound copies, he/she should submit the number desired. The
Binding Department will bill the student for the additional copies at a minimal cost per copy.
Doctoral Research Approval Process
Approval for conducting doctoral research must be obtained while enrolled in DSRT 839
and is a pre-requisite to enrolling in DSRT 930. The Institutional Review Board application to
conduct research, and all supporting documents must be submitted in DSRT 839. Students may
self-register for the IRB and Research Organization in iLearn for forms, tutorials, and materials.
The doctoral research chair will review the document, and then the student should submit the
documents to the IRB chair at irb@ucumberlands.edu. Candidates will receive an IRB
Approval Letter once the research has been approved. No research is to be executed until IRB
approval is granted, and all necessary consents (adults) and assents (minors) are secured from
participants. The IRB Approval Letter is to be placed in the doctoral research as Appendix A.
mailto:irb@ucumberlands.edu
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 11
Oral Defense
While enrolled in the final doctoral research course, the candidate must present an oral
defense of her/his research. This oral defense is presented after the committee chair, and all
committee members have given feedback, and all edits have been made to the doctoral research
document. The academic department will schedule the defense session after the Graduate School
completes a Quality Check of the doctoral research (defense ready file). All three committee
members must be present for the oral defense. The oral defense session normally takes 45-60
minutes. The committee members and chair ask questions and offer comments. The committee
dismisses the candidate for committee deliberation. Once the committee and chair have
deliberated and reached a decision, the candidate is invited to re-join the group for the committee
decision. The committee makes one of the following decisions:
approved with no revisions,
approved with minor revisions,
provisionally approved with major revisions, or
not approved with the recommendation to write new doctoral research.
If one of the first two decisions is determined, the committee chair works with the candidate to
get the final document ready to send to the department chair for review. If the committee
decision requires major revisions or a new doctoral research, the candidate enrolls in another
research course to complete the revisions or rewrite. The defense must be successfully
completed by the department defense deadline for the semester. The doctoral research chair and
committee evaluate the candidate using the department rubric (see Appendix D).
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 12
Graduation
Candidates should apply for graduation at the beginning of the semester in which they
plan to graduate. The application for graduation is located at
https://inside.ucumberlands.edu/academics/registrar/graduation_application.php. Once the
research has been successfully defended, and copies of the doctoral research are received by the
department chair, then the department chair notifies the registrar that the candidate has
completed all program requirements and is eligible to graduate. Graduation exercises are held in
May. Candidates are hooded during the graduation exercise.
https://inside.ucumberlands.edu/academics/registrar/graduation_application.php
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 13
Appendix A: Quantitative Dissertation (Traditional Five Chapter Format)
Title Page
Signature Page
Acknowledgments
Abstract (150 words maximum)
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Chapter One (Introduction)
Overview
Background and Problem Statement
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Theoretical Framework
Limitations of the Study
Assumptions
Definitions
Summary
Chapter Two (Review of Literature)
Introduction
Subsections based on a deductive approach
Summary
Chapter Three (Procedures and Methodology)
Introduction
Research Paradigm (quantitative)
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 14
Research Design
Sampling Procedures and or/
Data Collection Sources (reference Informed Consent and IRB approval placed in
Appendices)
Statistical Tests
Summary
Chapter Four (Research Findings)
Introduction
Participants and Research Setting
Analyses of Research Questions (one at a time)
Supplementary Findings (if any)
Summary
Chapter Five (Summary, Discussion, and Implications)
Introduction
Practical Assessment of Research Questions
Limitations of the Study
Implications for Future Study
Summary
References
Appendices (This section contains any tables, figures, and possible data sources that could not
be placed in the text of the paper due to its size, as well as copies of consent forms and IRB
letters).
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 15
Appendix B: Quantitative Dissertation (Applied Research Format)
Title Page
Signature Page
Acknowledgments
Abstract (150 words maximum)
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Chapter One (Introduction)
Overview
Background and Problem Statement
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Theoretical Framework
Limitations of the Study
Assumptions
Definitions
Summary
Chapter Two (Review of Literature)
Introduction
Subsections based on a deductive approach
Summary
Chapter Three (Procedures and Methodology)
Introduction
Research Paradigm (quantitative)
Research Project Design
Sampling Procedures and or/
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 16
Data Collection Sources (reference Informed Consent and IRB approval placed in Appendices)
Statistical Tests (if applicable)
Summary
Chapter Four (Research Findings)
Introduction
Participants and Research Setting (if applicable)
Project Analysis
Analyses of Research Questions (one at a time)
Supplementary Findings (if any)
Summary
Chapter Five (Summary, Discussion, and Implications)
Introduction
Practical Assessment of Project Analysis
Limitations of the Study
Implications for Future Study
Summary
References
Appendices (This section contains any tables, figures and possible data sources that could not be placed
in the text of the paper due to its size, as well as copies of consent forms and IRB letters.)
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 17
Appendix C: Qualitative and Mixed Methods Dissertation Information
Title Page
Signature Page
Acknowledgments
Abstract (150 words maximum)
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Additional Chapters
References
Appendices
*Specific formatting guidelines will be specified by program director, dissertation chair, and
committee.
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 18
Appendix D: Doctoral Research Evaluation Rubric
Standard Score 4 3 2 1 Score
I.
Demonstrates
critical and
reflective
thinking
capable of
facilitating
institutional,
informational
technology, or
business-related
problem-
solving or
institutional
improvement.
Demonstrates
a professional
level of critical
and
reflective
thinking
leading to
problem-
solving or
institutional
improvement.
Demonstrates
an
acceptable
level of critical
and reflective
thinking
leading to
problem-
solving or
institutional
improvement.
Demonstrates an
acceptable level
of critical and
reflective
thinking, but
with minimal
connections to
leading to
problem-solving
or institutional
improvement.
Minimal
demonstration
of critical and
reflective
thinking.
II.
Demonstrates
consideration for
the
impact of
leadership,
information
technology, or
business on
institutional
constituents.
Demonstrates
a professional
level of
consideration
for the impact
of leadership,
information
technology, or
business on
institutional
constituents.
Demonstrates
an acceptable
level of
consideration
for the impact
of leadership,
information
technology, or
business on
institutional
constituents.
Needs minimal
improvement
related to the
impact of
content on
constituents.
Needs
significant
improvement
related to the
impact of
content on
constituents.
III. Demonstrates
effective analytical
and
communication
skills.
Demonstrates
a professional
level of
skills
associated
with
formatting,
grammar,
spelling,
syntax, and
use of
numbers.
Demonstrates
acceptable
skills
associated with
formatting,
grammar,
spelling,
syntax, and use
of numbers.
Needs minor
improvement in
skills associated
with formatting,
grammar,
spelling, syntax,
and use of
numbers.
Needs
significant
improvement in
skills associated
formatting,
grammar,
spelling, syntax,
and use of
numbers.
IV.
Demonstrates
knowledge of
genres, paradigms,
theories or trends
in Business,
information
technology, or
leadership.
Demonstrates
a professional
level of
knowledge.
Demonstrates
an acceptable
level of
knowledge.
Needs minor
improvement in
the
demonstration
of knowledge.
Needs
significant
improvement in
the
demonstration
of knowledge.
Score
DISSERTATION HANDBOOK 19
Appendix E: Reporting Statistical Tests
For quantitative dissertations, report the statistical tests in the abstract and Chapter Four.
Set the alpha at .05. Some common examples of tests used in the quantitative analysis are listed
below as examples. Italicize all statistical symbols. For all tests listed below, report the degrees
of freedom (except the Spearman’s rs, where you report the number of pairs).
Symbol Report findings Null hypothesis
Chi-Square Test X2 (X2 [df, N = ] = result, p < or >
.05)
The variables are independent.
Spearman’s rs rs (rs [number of pairs] = result, p
< or > .05)
There is no relationship between
the ranked data.
t-test
(Independent
and paired
samples)
t (t [df] = result, p < or > .05) There is no difference in the
means.
ANOVA F F [df] = result, p < or > .05) There is no difference in the
means.
(If the null hypothesis is rejected,
then run post-hoc testing).
Regression or
Pearson Product
moment
correlation
coefficient r
r r [df] = result, p < or > .05) There is no relationship between
the variables.
*For additional tests, please follow current APA guidelines.
Student Services Academic Department
COURSE SYLLABUS
Course Information
INTR899 – M01 Applied Learning Prac, DSRT
Fall 2020 Full Term
Course Format: Hybrid
CRN: 11023
Instructor Information
Name: Dr. Pamela Smith
Email: pamela.smith@ucumberlands.edu
Phone: 606-539-3577
Office Location: Adams Center
Office Hours/Preferred Contact Times: Mon-Fri 9am – 4pm EST
Course Description
INTR 899. Applied Learning Practicum, Doctoral Programs INTR899 is designed to
enhance the educational experience of the dissertation phase for doctoral
students.
Students will utilize the course to maintain dissertation progress and ensure alignment
of research topic with a professional setting within the student’s academic discipline
and professional experience/interests. Through this course, the University will have a
Collaborative/Cooperative Agreement with all practicum or internship sites before the
student is permitted to begin the field placement work. Department approval is required
to determine if the placement aligns with the program of study. As an integral part of
the executive formatted programs, this course must be taken every semester during the
dissertation phase for executive-format students. Credit, 3 hours.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course:
Provide students with an opportunity to enhance their learning via professional
experiences.
Provide a deeper understanding of how program curriculum is applied to real
world workplace environments.
Compose effective communication through professional writing, speaking, and
other forms of business communication in DSRT courses.
Participation in business operations and decision making.
Course Website
Access to the course website is required via the iLearn portal on the University of the
Cumberlands website: http://www.ucumberlands.edu/ilearn/
or https://ucumberlands.blackboard.com/
Required Books and
Resources
Title: To Text Required
Course Required text can be found and purchased via the UC Barnes and Noble
Bookstore: https://cumber.bncollege.com/shop/cumberlands/page/find-textbooks
Requirements and Policies
Academic Integrity/Plagiarism
At a Christian liberal arts university committed to the pursuit of truth and
understanding, any act of academic dishonesty is especially distressing and cannot be
tolerated. In general, academic dishonesty involves the abuse and misuse of
information or people to gain an undeserved academic advantage or evaluation. The
common forms of academic dishonesty include:
Cheating – using deception in the taking of tests or the preparation of written
work, using unauthorized materials, copying another person’s work with or without
consent, or assisting another in such
activities.
Lying – falsifying, fabricating, or forging information in either written, spoken, or
video presentations.
http://www.ucumberlands.edu/ilearn/
https://ucumberlands.blackboard.com/
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Plagiarism—using the published writings, data, interpretations, or ideas of another
without proper documentation
Plagiarism includes copying and pasting material from the internet into
assignments without properly citing the source of the material.
Episodes of academic dishonesty are reported to the Vice President for Academic
Affairs. The potential penalty for academic dishonesty includes a failing grade on a
particular assignment, a failing grade for the entire course, or charges against the
student with the appropriate disciplinary body.
Participation Policy
Study after study has linked successful academic performance with good class
participation. Those who assume positions of responsibility must “show up” in order to
be effective. Therefore, students are expected to actively participate in intelligent
discussion of assigned topics in all areas (Discussion Board Activities, Synchronous
Sessions, Forums, Shared Papers, etc.) to help process course material and/or to
demonstrate understanding of course content. Point adjustments will be taken for non-
participation.
Disability Accommodations
University of the Cumberlands accepts students with certified disabilities and provides
reasonable accommodations for their certified needs in the classroom, in housing, in
food service or in other areas. For accommodations to be awarded, a student must
submit a completed Accommodations Application form and provide documentation of
the disability to the Disability Services Coordinator (Mr. Jacob Ratliff, Boswell Campus
Center, Student Services Office Suite, jacob.ratliff@ucumberlands.edu). When all
paperwork is on file, a meeting between the student and the Coordinator will be
arranged to discuss possible accommodations before accommodations are formally
approved. Students must then meet with the Coordinator at the beginning of each
semester before any academic accommodations can be certified for that term.
Certifications for other accommodations are normally reviewed annually.
Academic Appeal
Both undergraduate and graduate students have the right to challenge a grade. If
discussions with the course instructor and department chair do not lead to a satisfactory
conclusion, students may file a formal written appeal with the Vice President for
Academic Affairs, who will forward the appeal to the chair of the Academic Appeals
mailto:jacob.ratliff@ucumberlands.edu
Committee. This formal written appeal must be filed by the end of the 4th week of
classes in the next regular term following the term in which the course in question was
taken. The Academic Appeals Committee then gathers information from the student, the
instructor, and any other relevant parties. The Committee will deliver its
recommendation on the complaint to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. After
reviewing this recommendation and concurring or amending it, the Vice President for
Academic Affairs will inform the student and instructor of the disposition of the
complaint no later than the last day of classes of the term in which the complaint was
filed. Records of all actions regarding academic grade appeals, including their final
disposition, are maintained by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Academic
Appeals Committee. (Undergraduate Catalog/Graduate Catalog)
Student Responsibilities
Students should:
Use University of the Cumberlands email system for all academic, administrative,
and co-curricular communication between faculty, staff and peers.
Check for email and class announcements using iLearn (primary) and University of
the Cumberlands webmail (secondary) daily.
Demonstrate Cumberlands Character in and outside the classroom per the
University Mission & Vision
Ensure you have consistent required technology for the course
Participate in courses regularly to:
Find announcements and updates
Complete assignments on time. Keep in mind that all deadlines use Eastern
Standard Time (EST).
Engage in discussion
Connect with fellow students and faculty
Present written work in an academic and professional manner.
Take examinations on the designated dates and times. Students should make
arrangements with faculty before the designated date for any needed
accommodations.
Contact faculty or student success coordinator with questions or concerns.
Course Policies
Deadlines and Dues Dates: Recognizing that a large part of professional life is meeting
deadlines, it is necessary to develop time management and organizational skills. Failure
to meet the course deadlines may result in penalties. Keep in mind that all deadlines are
set using Eastern Standard Time (EST). Late assignments will NOT be accepted.
Course Activities and Experiences
https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/academic-catalog
Students are expected to:
Review any assigned reading material and prepare responses to homework
assigned.
Actively participate in activities, assignments, and discussions.
Evaluate and react to each other’s work in a supportive, constructive
manner.
Complete specific assignments and exams when specified and in a professional
manner.
Utilize learned technologies for class assignments.
Connect content knowledge from core courses to practical training placement and
activities.
Links to Support
UC Academic Catalog: https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/academic-catalog
UC Student Handbook: https://www.ucumberlands.edu/student-handbook
Academic Resources & Writing Center: www.ucumberlands.edu/learningcommons
Library: http://www.ucumberlands.edu/library/
Bookstore: https://cumber.bncollege.com/shop/cumberlands/home
About University of the Cumberlands:
https://www.ucumberlands.edu/about/presidents-welcome
Course Evaluation
A student will be evaluated/weighted on the following basis:
Module 1, General Overview (30%)
Module 2, Job Search Resources (15%)
Module 3, Student Employment & Professionalism and Student/Employee
Etiquette
(20%)
Module 4, Applied Learning Practicum Reflection (35%)
Grading Scale
Graded work will receive a numeric score reflecting the quality of performance as given
above in evaluation methods. The overall course grade will be determined according to
the following scale:
A= 90 – 100 (90% – 100%)
B= 80 – 89 (80% – 89%)
C = 70 – 79 (70% – 79%)
F < 69 (Below 69%)
https://www.ucumberlands.edu/academics/academic-catalog
https://www.ucumberlands.edu/student-handbook
http://www.ucumberlands.edu/learningcommons
http://www.ucumberlands.edu/library/
https://cumber.bncollege.com/shop/cumberlands/home
https://www.ucumberlands.edu/about/presidents-welcome
Course Schedule
Unit Assignment Points
Module 1, General
Overview
Quiz #1
Dissertation Discussion
Board
20
10
Module 2, Job Search
Resources
Quiz #2
15
Module 3, Student
Employment &
Professionalism and
Student/Employee
Etiquette
Quiz #3 20
Module 4, Applied
Learning Practicum
Reflection
Survey / Reflection 35
TOTAL POINTS:
100
Syllabus Disclaimer
This syllabus contains important information critical to your success in this course. It
includes guidelines for this course and the instructor’s current expectations about
content, schedule, and requirements necessary for each student to achieve the best
educational results. While you must review and become familiar with the contents of
this syllabus, the instructor reserves the right to make adjustments or change in the
syllabus from time to time. Any changes to the syllabus will be discussed with the
students.