Literature Review

The literature review chapter in the doctoral dissertation is designed to acquaint the researcher with the body of knowledge surrounding a given topic. There will be disagreements in published research results (tensions) as well as topic that have not been researched (gaps). These gaps and tensions are the basis for new research, and they are ideal topics for dissertation research. Adding new information to fill a gap or to reinforce a point in an argument allows the researcher to make a valid contribution to the scholarly community. In this assignment, you will identify several sources that can serve as the beginning of the literature review for your dissertation topic.

General Requirements:

Use the following information to ensure successful completion of the assignment:

• Instructors will be using a grading rubric to grade the assignments. It is recommended that learners review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment in order to become familiar with the assignment criteria and expectations for successful completion of the assignment.

• Doctoral learners are required to use APA style for their writing assignments. The APA Style Guide is located in the Student Success Center.

Directions:

Identify five scholarly sources on your intended dissertation topic. Write a paper of 1,000-1,250 words that synthesizes the information contained in these sources. Include the following in your synthesis:

1. A brief summary of the primary research questions, purpose, limitations, and results of each article.

2. A comparison of the articles that identifies gaps and tensions between the conclusions made by each study.

3. A summary that proposes a specific direction for your research topic based on the gaps and tensions identified.