A Dissertation is a critical aspect of education journey. A dissertation is a substantial and intricate work that students submit to complete their coursework. It can aid the student in honing their critical thinking abilities. However, writing dissertations can sometimes be challenging. Students undergo thorough evaluation and analysis of complex data and information to create a cogent argument supported by ample evidence (Calle-Arango & Ávila Reyes, 2022). The Dissertation Literature Review Lab has been instrumental in honing my skills for the upcoming dissertation research process. The course offers guidance through the intricate process of crafting a comprehensive literature review. The course has equipped me with valuable insights into the intricacies of constructing a robust literature review developing skills in topic selection, research analysis, and effective writing. The concepts can provide a solid foundation for producing a critical literature review that contributes meaningfully to my chosen field of study.
The first significant learning from this course is the importance of meticulous topic selection. Understanding that the dissertation literature review sets the stage for the entire research project. The course emphasized the significance of aligning the chosen topic with personal interests and the broader field of study. The learning has influenced my dissertation research process by prompting a meticulous consideration of potential topics. I now understand the value of selecting a research question that captures my intellectual curiosity and contributes meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge. I can apply the skill to ensure my dissertation research is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of the existing body of knowledge.
Secondly, the course provided a structured approach to analyzing research articles. It empowered me to develop a discerning eye for evaluating quality and relevance of scholarly work. I learned to identify key concepts, methodologies, and gaps in existing research and synthesize information effectively. The research analysis skills acquired will enable me to critically engage with existing literature, identify gaps, and build on established knowledge (Toquero, 2020). I will easily evaluate existing literature and identify areas warranting further investigation for my dissertation. The ability to dissect and comprehend complex research articles has empowered me to engage with the academic discourse in a more informed and nuanced manner.
Thirdly, the course provided valuable intuitions into effective writing techniques for a literature review. I learned necessary for creating a compelling introduction and ensuring logical flow of ideas. The experience in crafting academic content has heightened my awareness of the need for coherence and structure in presenting research findings. I can apply the skill to ensure clarity, conciseness, and coherence in writing.
The course also emphasized editing as a critical and continuous process in writing. It reinforced the idea that a well-polished literature review requires multiple rounds of revision. I learned that Instructor’s feedback on the dissertation is critical in refining the dissertation. The emphasis on effective writing and editing has equipped me with the tools to articulate my research findings clearly and persuasively. I can apply the iterative editing process to dissertation research by continuously refining my work to ensure its quality and rigor (Chong & Mason, 2021).
In conclusion, Dissertation Literature Review Lab course has been a transformative experience, providing me with the skills and knowledge essential for the dissertation research process. The emphasis on meticulous topic selection, research analysis, effective writing, and continuous editing has equipped me with valuable knowledge for conducting the dissertation. The knowledge will shape the trajectory of my dissertation research and ensure that it is grounded in a well-constructed and critically examined literature review. As I embark on the dissertation journey, I am confident that the lessons learned in this course will guide me toward producing a robust and impactful dissertation.
References
Calle-Arango, L., & Ávila Reyes, N. (2022). Obstacles, facilitators, and needs in doctoral writing: A systematic review. Studies in Continuing Education, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037x.2022.2026315
Chong, S. W., & Mason, S. (2021). Demystifying the process of scholarly peer-review: an autoethnographic investigation of feedback literacy of two award-winning peer reviewers. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-021-00951-2
Toquero, C. M. D. (2020). “Real-world:” preservice teachers’ competence and research difficulties in action research. Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, ahead-of-print(ahead-of-print). https://doi.org/10.1108/jarhe-03-2019-0060
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