LibGuides: Chapter 3: Alignment of Dissertation Components for DIS-9902ABC

Overarching Alignment of Dissertation Components for DIS-9902ABC

	Chapter 1	Chapter 2	Chapter 3
Problem Statement	The problem statement provides the anchor for your entire dissertation. The problem should be something scholars agree needs to be solved. Evidence should be supported by recent research and citations	The problem statement generates key topics that you will include in your literature review that describe and provide evidencebased support for the importance of studying the problem.	The problem statement anchors the research design and methodology. Ask yourself if the methods chosen will get answers to the questions to help solve the problem.
Purpose Statement	The purpose statement should implicitly state the purpose of the study, “The purpose of this (type) study is to …”. The purpose should investigate a potential way to solve the problem.	The purpose statement generates key topics that you include in your literature review that provide support for your dissertation study.	The purpose statement anchors the research design and methodology. Ask yourself if the methods chosen will get answers to the research questions to help solve the problem.
Research Questions	The research questions must directly align with the problem and purpose statements. Ask yourself if the answers to the research questions will help solve the problem.	The research questions generate key topics that you include in your literature review to provide rational and support for your dissertation study.	The research questions guide your choices for research design and methodology.
Conceptual Framework (EdD/DBA, etc.) or Theoretical Framework (PhD)	In Chapter 1, include an overview of the cited framework (s) you have chosen to support your research. Include a rational for the selection. Also include a short description of the primary component of the framework (s) and how it aligns with your problem and purpose.	In Chapter 2, write a thorough review of the literature about your chosen framework (s). Include related research that supports the use of the framework(s) for your research topic.	The framework (s) provide integral support for how you collect data. In qualitative research, the frameworks inform your data collection instruments, including interview or survey questions and observation checklists.