AHE 680 Reading Research in Higher Education
The purpose of this course is to provide students with skills that enable them to understand and synthesize current research in higher education. The student will complete the following objectives by the end of the term:/p>
- Identify core areas of research in the field of higher education;
- Explore effective strategies for locating relevant research relevant to the topic being synthesized;
- Develop organizational methods and practices that facilitate the review, assembly, inventory, maintenance, retrieval, and use of research sources;
- Develop the ability to critically review all sources by critically analyzing their purpose, main themes, consistency, research methods, and any potential interrelationships that may exist among them;
- Structure a research synthesis so that it: presents the current state of existing empirical research on a student-determine topical area AND THEN identifies a gap in the research, leads to a possible new direction, or calls for research that can challenge the existing research;
- Create a product that is original and can stand as its own as a (potentially publishable) research synthesis or that can form the foundation for a research project that will contribute to the base of knowledge in the chosen area of interest;
- Follow the requirements and procedures established for doctoral dissertations by The University of Alabama.
Student Comments About AHE 680
1) All of the readings and assignments were directly relevant to students, on a practical level. Of my time in graduate school, this class has been the most beneficial for my upcoming career. 2) Dr. Major is a perfect instructor, knowledgeable and kind. Has a respect for her students.
Dr. Major provided good feedback that helped me improve my writing.
I learned how to set up and use a blog, and how to critically analyze articles.
Phenomenal instructor; so pleased that I was able to have her in class.
Probably one of the most valuable courses in preparation for dissertation hours. It's evident that Dr. Major specializes in teaching pedagogy. Teaching is an art form and not everyone has it. She does!
The course had so many practical applications for doing the dissertation. Learning how to read research articles was most valuable.
The logical organization of this class was a strength. The structure helped me to conceptualize my dissertation topic and step through the organization. I felt a bit adrift before (which is good actually), but this class has been the anchor of the program.
This course was awesome! I feel more prepared to writing my dissertation based on the content of this course
This was one of the best courses I've had in this program. It tied together many of the concepts we've had in other classes. Many "Ah-ha" moments.
This is one of those courses where I just wish we had more time. Such valuable information.
More time with Dr. Major would be great.
More time with Dr. Major.
This course needs no improvement.
We probably should have had a few more hours with Dr. Major.
An outstanding instructor, one of the best I've had. I do not know how she has time to do everything she does. She took the time to find an article for me. Not many professors would do that, especially one who is a new Department Chair.
Dr. Major is an excellent communicator.
Dr. Major was great! She was an excellent resource in understanding the course's content.
Dr. Major's blog page is very helpful. It was shared as a useful tool for others students in doctoral programs at different institutions.
Excellent job making us think critically. All assignments led us to our ultimate research goals. Great strategy.
She was awesome!
Totally enjoyed this class. Dr. Major brings a level of expertise and experience that helps students strategically tackle large amount of regarding in preparation for writing a dissertation.