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Title: RES 899: Dissertation Proposal Development
Subtitle: Crafting Your Research Proposal in Biblical Studies
Course Name & Level: Dissertation Proposal Development, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Dissertation Proposal, Research Development, Doctoral Studies
1. Introduction:
This course guides doctoral students through the process of developing a comprehensive dissertation proposal. Emphasis is placed on formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, and outlining research methodologies.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focused on developing dissertation proposals. Students will learn to craft effective research proposals, integrating theological principles and contemporary research methods.
3. Course Purpose:
To equip students with the skills necessary to develop a strong and coherent dissertation proposal in biblical studies.
4. Course Objectives:
To guide students in formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, and designing research methodologies.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Dissertation Proposal: A detailed plan of a proposed research project, outlining research questions, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Research Questions: Specific questions that guide the research process.
- Literature Review: A comprehensive survey of existing research relevant to the dissertation topic.
- Research Methodology: The strategies and techniques used to collect and analyze data.
- Theological Integration: The process of incorporating theological principles into the research proposal.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to Dissertation Proposals: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- Formulating Research Questions: Techniques for developing clear and focused research questions.
- Conducting Literature Reviews: Methods for identifying and reviewing relevant literature.
- Designing Research Methodologies: Strategies for selecting and implementing appropriate research methods.
- Writing the Proposal Introduction: Crafting an engaging and informative introduction.
- Integrating Theological Principles: Incorporating theological insights into the research proposal.
- Ethical Considerations in Research: Addressing ethical issues in the research process.
- Drafting the Proposal: Writing the main sections of the dissertation proposal.
- Peer Review and Feedback: Techniques for providing and receiving constructive feedback.
- Revising and Finalizing the Proposal: Strategies for refining and polishing the proposal.
- Preparing for the Proposal Defense: Tips for presenting and defending the dissertation proposal.
- Case Studies in Proposal Development: Analysis of successful dissertation proposals.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and methodologies.
- Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
- Draft Research Questions: Formulation of initial research questions for the dissertation proposal.
- Literature Review: Comprehensive review of existing literature related to the research topic.
- Draft Proposal Sections: Submission of drafts for different sections of the proposal.
- Peer Review: Participation in peer review sessions to provide and receive feedback.
- Revised Proposal: Submission of a revised and polished dissertation proposal.
- Proposal Presentation: A presentation on the key elements of the dissertation proposal.
- Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course content.
8. Research References:
- Writing the Doctoral Dissertation: A Systematic Approach by Gordon B. Davis and Clyde A. Parker. eBook format. MLA Citation: Davis, Gordon B., and Clyde A. Parker. Writing the Doctoral Dissertation: A Systematic Approach. Barron’s Educational Series, 2012.
- The Craft of Research by Wayne C. Booth, Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. eBook format. MLA Citation: Booth, Wayne C., Gregory G. Colomb, and Joseph M. Williams. The Craft of Research. University of Chicago Press, 2016.
- Dissertation Research and Writing for Construction Students by Shamil Naoum. eBook format. MLA Citation: Naoum, Shamil. Dissertation Research and Writing for Construction Students. Routledge, 2019.
- Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches by John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell. eBook format. MLA Citation: Creswell, John W., and J. David Creswell. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. SAGE Publications, 2017.
- Theological Research and Writing: An Advanced Guide by Mary A. Shepherd. eBook format. MLA Citation: Shepherd, Mary A. Theological Research and Writing: An Advanced Guide. Zondervan, 2015.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to develop and present their dissertation proposals, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
