LDR 802 Module 1 DQ 2
Focus on Research:
Research can be conducted for a variety of reasons including searching for effective change strategies that allow followers to perceive of someone as a leader rather than a manager or studying a specific problem as one will encounter when preparing the doctoral dissertation. What is research? How is scholarly research different from other kinds of research? What are the essential components of scholarly research? Is the investigation you propose to conduct in this scenario considered scholarly research? Why or why not? How will scholarly research help prepare you for writing your dissertation?
In basic terms research is investigating a particular topic, theory, or hypothesis using a variety of materials and sources to establish certain facts and reach conclusions. Scholarly research is different than other types of research because it requires intellectual ability, an inquisitive nature, and competence, along with a desire to explore queries, issues, and subjects in the hopes of advancing and contributing to future discoveries (Edward, 2012). Essential components of scholarly research include, but are not limited to, (1) establishing thoughtful research questions and appropriate methodologies for investigation, (2) determining an appropriate philosophical, conceptual, or theoretical framework from which to conduct your method of inquiry, (3) establishing how your research will contribute to existing literature and help to advance the knowledge base of your area of study, (4) identifying strengths, weaknesses and limitations of the study, and (5) having the study be accepted and recognized as a piece of valuable information and contribution to the field among your peers (Nelson, 2011). Given these guidelines, any proposed research in this scenario would be considered scholarly if it meets the criteria of each of the above stated component areas. Scholarly research can help to prepare anyone for writing a dissertation by helping them to become familiar with the process, skills, and knowledge required to produce scholarly work. Additionally, it can only seek to enhance one’s own critical and scholarly thinking while helping them to stay connected with the various types of theories and practices that their field is founded upon, as well as the emerging advancements that are being made.
Gabriele, E. (2012). Stewarding the Human Good: Understanding the Nature of Research and Its Ethical Horizons. Journal Of Research Administration , 43 (1), 112-122.
Nelson, T. (2011). Critiquing Scholarship as Formal Review: The Role and Responsibilities of Readers for Academic Journals. Issues In Teacher Education , 20 (1), 5-15.