During this semester, we reviewed several areas in blockchain, business intelligence, data mining, electronic currency, etc.

Getting closer to your dissertation, you will need to choose a topic in your first dissertation class, DSRT-736, so it is essential to start preparing. This week, let us look at some topics to consider.

Since you have already examined several research articles, another way would be to examine previous dissertations in these areas.

Visit the University of Cumberlands library, go to the Dissertation Database, and locate an interesting topic on one of the concepts we discussed this semester.

Here are some pointers that will help critically evaluate and share some viable topics.

• Is the topic attainable for a first-time dissertation student?
• Is the problem rooted in the literature?
• Is the research empirical, i.e., is there a survey, is there an interview guide, has the data been analyzed via some statistical tool?
• Is there a theoretical model or framework discussed?

Provide a brief overview of the topic, the problem, the research model, and any present findings.

Do not read the entire dissertation, as the abstract and chapter one introduction should give a clear understanding of the research.

You must make at least two substantive responses to your classmates‘ posts. Respond to these posts in any of the following ways:

• Build on something your classmate said
• Explain why and how you see things differently
• Ask a probing or clarifying question
• Share an insight from having read your classmates‘ postings
• Offer and support an opinion
• Validate an idea with your own experience
• Expand on your classmates‘ postings
• Ask for evidence that supports the post.