Problem Statement/Research Questions /Free Appropriate Public Education

1.

Problem Statement/Research Questions

Take a moment to review the details of this assignment below and gather any necessary files. Once you're ready to submit your assignment, move on to Step 2.

Assessment Traits

Requires Lopeswrite

Assessment Description

The process of articulating a problem statement and the related research questions requires a significant amount of reading and reflection. Doctoral learners at this point in the program must consider a problem to research for the dissertation and begin to articulate that problem. In this assignment, you will articulate a potential problem statement for your dissertation research and pose several potential research questions that could address the problem statement. Please note that a passing score on this assignment does not indicate an approved problem statement or research questions. You will work with your dissertation chair and methodologist to further refine and focus these items once you enter the dissertation phase of the program.

General Requirements:

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

· This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

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

· Refer to Chapters 2-4 of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.) for specific guidelines related to doctoral-level writing. These chapters contain essential information on manuscript structure and content, clear and concise writing, and academic grammar and usage.

· This assignment requires that at least two additional scholarly research sources related to this topic, and at least one in-text citation from each source be included.

· You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.

Directions: Write a paper (750-1,000 words) in which you articulate a potential problem statement for your dissertation research and pose several potential research questions that could address the problem statement. Include the following in your paper:

1. A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement for the dissertation study you might conduct. What is the area of research you intend to explore? What are the key concepts of your focus? What is the context of the problem? Who are the subjects of this research focus?

2. A research-supported rationale for exploring the problem. What is the need or defined gap as supported by at least four current and relevant sources of research literature?

3. Four potential research questions that could guide your collection of data in addressing the problem statement. Reflect on the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the problem statement to gain a broader perspective on the problem statement. What analytical questions need to be asked related to the data that must be collected to address the defined gap? Articulate these ideas into research questions that focus on the relevant data that needs to be collected.

Rubric

Criteria Description

Clearly Articulated and Focused Potential Problem Statement

5. Target

28 points

A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement is thoroughly presented. Components are all addressed with rich detail.

4. Acceptable

24.36 points

A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement is reasonable and scholarly. Components are all addressed with reasonable detail.

3. Approaching

22.12 points

A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement is presented, but is cursory and addresses most components superficially

2. Insufficient

20.72 points

A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement is included, but is incomplete and does not address all necessary components.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

A clearly articulated and focused potential problem statement is not presented.

expand Research-Supported Rationale for Exploring the Problem assessment

Research-Supported Rationale for Exploring the Problem

35 points

collapse Four Potential Research Questions assessment

Four Potential Research Questions

35 points

Criteria Description

Four Potential Research Questions

5. Target

35 points

Four potential research questions are meaningful and scholarly. The research questions demonstrate clear alignment with the problem statement presented.

4. Acceptable

30.45 points

Four potential research questions are reasonable and scholarly. The research questions demonstrate relative alignment with the problem statement presented.

3. Approaching

27.65 points

Four potential research questions are presented, but are not all valid. The research questions demonstrate little alignment with the problem statement presented.

2. Insufficient

25.9 points

questions are included, but are illogical or unreasonable. The research questions demonstrate no alignment with the problem statement presented.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Four potential research questions are not presented.

collapse Synthesis and Argument assessment

Synthesis and Argument

14 points

Criteria Description

Synthesis and Argument

5. Target

14 points

Synthesis of source information is present and is scholarly. Argument is clear and convincing, presenting a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative.

4. Acceptable

12.18 points

Synthesis of source information is present and meaningful. Argument shows logical progressions. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative.

3. Approaching

11.06 points

Synthesis of source information is present, but pedantic. Argument is orderly, but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis.

2. Insufficient

10.36 points

Synthesis of source information is attempted, but is not successful. Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

No synthesis of source information is evident. Statement of purpose is not followed to a justifiable conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses non-credible sources.

collapse Thesis Development and Purpose assessment

Thesis Development and Purpose

7 points

Criteria Description

Thesis Development and Purpose

5. Target

7 points

Thesis and/or main claim are comprehensive. The essence of the paper is contained within the thesis. Thesis statement makes the purpose of the paper clear.

4. Acceptable

6.09 points

Thesis and/or main claim are clear and forecast the development of the paper. It is descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose.

3. Approaching

5.53 points

Thesis and/or main claim are apparent and appropriate to purpose.

2. Insufficient

5.18 points

Thesis and/or main claim are insufficiently developed and/or vague; purpose is not clear.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim.

collapse Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use) assessment

Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)

7 points

Criteria Description

Mechanics of Writing (includes spelling, punctuation, grammar, language use)

5. Target

7 points

Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.

4. Acceptable

6.09 points

Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. A variety of sentence structures and effective figures of speech are used.

3. Approaching

5.53 points

Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are used.

2. Insufficient

5.18 points

Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register), sentence structure, and/or word choice are present.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Surface errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice and/or sentence construction are used.

collapse Paper Format (Use of appropriate style for the major and assignment) assessment

Paper Format (Use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)

7 points

Criteria Description

Paper Format (Use of appropriate style for the major and assignment)

5. Target

7 points

All format elements are correct.

4. Acceptable

6.09 points

Appropriate template is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style.

3. Approaching

5.53 points

Appropriate template is used. Formatting is correct, although some minor errors may be present.

2. Insufficient

5.18 points

Appropriate template is used, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Template is not used appropriately or documentation format is rarely followed correctly.

collapse Research Citations assessment

Research Citations

7 points

Criteria Description

Research Citations (In-text citations for paraphrasing and direct quotes, and reference page listing and formatting, as appropriate to assignment and style)

5. Target

7 points

In-text citations and a reference page are complete and correct. The documentation of cited sources is free of error.

4. Acceptable

6.09 points

Reference page is present and fully inclusive of all cited sources. Documentation is appropriate and citation style is usually correct.

3. Approaching

5.53 points

Reference page is included and lists sources used in the paper. Sources are appropriately documented, although some errors may be present.

2. Insufficient

5.18 points

Reference page is present. Citations are inconsistently used.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

No reference page is included. No citations are used.

2

Free Appropriate Public Education

Review Details

Take a moment to review the details of this assignment below and gather any necessary files. Once you're ready to submit your assignment, move on to Step 2.

Assessment Traits

Requires Lopeswrite

Assessment Description

Using case studies is one way for special education leaders to be able to identify, define, and critique conceptual and pedagogical knowledge that can be applied within the context of the leader’s environment. This assignment will allow you to use a case study as a learning tool.

General Requirements:

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

· Access the case study “Sonya” from the topic Resources.

· This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

· This assignment requires that at least two additional scholarly research sources related to this topic, and at least one in-text citation from each source be included.

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

· Refer to Chapters 2-4 of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.) for specific guidelines related to doctoral-level writing. These chapters contain essential information on manuscript structure and content, clear and concise writing, and academic grammar and usage.

· You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.

Directions:

Write a paper (1,250-1,500 words) that interprets the FAPE violations as they pertain to the case study entitled, "Sonya." Do the following in your paper:

1. Summarize the case of "Sonya."

2. Discuss the possible consequences of the administrator’s decision in the case study.

3. What could the school do to help the special education students meet state standards?

4. Analyze the impact of case study research on the facets of special education that can impact your professional interests.

5. Define and critique method(s) you might use when utilizing case studies.

Rubric

Summaries the case Sonya

riteria Description

Summarize the Case of Sonya.

5. Target

21 points

A summary of the case is detailed and insightful.

4. Acceptable

18.69 points

A summary of the case is thorough.

3. Approaching

17.01 points

A summary of the case is present, but done at a superficial level.

2. Insufficient

15.96 points

A summary of the case is present. Discussion is absent or inadequate.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

A summary of the case is not present.

collapse Discuss the Possible Consequences of the Administrator?s Decision in the Case Study. assessment

Discuss the Possible Consequences of the Administrator?s Decision in the Case Study.

21 points

Criteria Description

Discuss the Possible Consequences of the Administrator?s Decision in the Case Study.

5. Target

21 points

A discussion of the possible consequences of the administrator?s decision in the case study is insightful and convincing. Argument is convincing.

4. Acceptable

18.69 points

A discussion of the possible consequences of the administrator?s decision in the case study is clearly presented. Argument supports claims.

3. Approaching

17.01 points

A discussion of the possible consequences of the administrator?s decision in the case study is present, but done at a cursory level.

2. Insufficient

15.96 points

A discussion of the possible consequences of the administrator?s decision in the case study is present. Argument, and/or discussion are absent or inadequate.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

A discussion of the possible consequences of the administrator?s decision in the case study is not present.

collapse Discuss What the School Could Do to Help the Special Education Students Meet State Standards. assessment

Discuss What the School Could Do to Help the Special Education Students Meet State Standards.

21 points

Criteria Description

Discuss What the School Could Do to Help the Special Education Students Meet State Standards.

5. Target

21 points

What the school could do to help special education students meet state standards is clearly presented. Discussion is thorough and insightful. Research is from scholarly and current sources.

4. Acceptable

18.69 points

What the school could do to help special education students meet state standards is clearly presented. Discussion is convincing. Research is from original sources; most are authoritative, but some are outdated.

3. Approaching

17.01 points

What the school could do to help special education students meet state standards is present, but done at a cursory level.

2. Insufficient

15.96 points

What the school could do to help special education students meet state standards is present. Discussion is absent or inadequate.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

What the school could do to help special education students meet state standards is not presented.

collapse Analyze the Impact of Case Study Research assessment

Analyze the Impact of Case Study Research

31.5 points

Criteria Description

Analyze the Impact of Case Study Research on the Facets of Special Education That Can Impact Your Professional Interests.

5. Target

31.5 points

An analysis of the impact case study research may have on the facets of special education and possibly on your professional interests is clearly presented. Argument supports claims and is insightful. Research is from original, current sources.

4. Acceptable

28.04 points

An analysis of the impact case study research may have on the facets of special education and possibly on your professional interests is thorough and convincing. Research is from original sources; most are authoritative, but some are outdated.

3. Approaching

25.52 points

An analysis of the impact case study research may have on the facets of special education and possibly on your professional interests is present, but done at a superficial level.

2. Insufficient

23.94 points

An analysis of the impact case study research may have on the facets of special education and possibly on your professional interests is present, but incomplete.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

An analysis of the impact case study research may have on the facets of special education and possibly on your professional interests is not present.

collapse Define and Critique Method(s) You Might Use When Utilizing Case Studies. assessment

Define and Critique Method(s) You Might Use When Utilizing Case Studies.

31.5 points

Criteria Description

Define and Critique Method(s) You Might Use When Utilizing Case Studies.

5. Target

31.5 points

A method you might use when utilizing case studies is clearly defined and critiqued. Research is from original, current sources.

4. Acceptable

28.04 points

A method you might use when utilizing case studies is thoroughly defined and critiqued. Research is from original sources; most are authoritative, but some are outdated.

3. Approaching

25.52 points

A method you might use when utilizing case studies is present, but done at a superficial level.

2. Insufficient

23.94 points

A method you might use when utilizing case studies is present, but incomplete.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

A method you might use when utilizing case studies is not present.

collapse Synthesis and Argument assessment

Synthesis and Argument

21 points

Criteria Description

Synthesis and Argument

5. Target

21 points

Synthesis of source information is present and scholarly. Argument is clear and convincing presenting a persuasive claim in a distinctive and compelling manner. All sources are authoritative. The synthesis and argument in the paper are of publication caliber.

4. Acceptable

18.69 points

Synthesis of source information is present and meaningful. Argument shows logical progressions. Techniques of argumentation are evident. There is a smooth progression of claims from introduction to conclusion. Most sources are authoritative.

3. Approaching

17.01 points

Synthesis of source information is present, but pedantic. Argument is orderly, but may have a few inconsistencies. The argument presents minimal justification of claims. Argument logically, but not thoroughly, supports the purpose. Sources used are credible. Introduction and conclusion bracket the thesis.

2. Insufficient

15.96 points

Synthesis of source information is attempted, but is not successful. Sufficient justification of claims is lacking. Argument lacks consistent unity. There are obvious flaws in the logic. Some sources have questionable credibility.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

No synthesis of source information is evident. Statement of purpose is not followed to a justifiable conclusion. The conclusion does not support the claim made. Argument is incoherent and uses non-credible sources.

collapse Thesis Development and Purpose assessment

Thesis Development and Purpose

42 points

Criteria Description

Thesis Development and Purpose

5. Target

42 points

Thesis and/or main claim are clear and comprehensive; the essence of the paper is contained within the thesis. The development indicated by the thesis and/or main claim is acceptable for publication.

4. Acceptable

37.38 points

Thesis and/or main claim are clear and forecast the development of the paper. They are descriptive and reflective of the arguments and appropriate to the purpose.

3. Approaching

34.02 points

Thesis and/or main claim are apparent and appropriate to purpose.

2. Insufficient

31.92 points

Thesis and/or main claim are insufficiently developed and/or vague; purpose is not clear.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Paper lacks any discernible overall purpose or organizing claim.

collapse Mechanics of Writing assessment

Mechanics of Writing

10.5 points

Criteria Description

Mechanics of Writing

5. Target

10.5 points

Writer is clearly in command of standard, written, academic English.

4. Acceptable

9.35 points

Prose is largely free of mechanical errors, although a few may be present. The writer uses a variety of effective sentence structures and figures of speech.

3. Approaching

8.51 points

Some mechanical errors or typos are present, but are not overly distracting to the reader. Correct and varied sentence structure and audience-appropriate language are employed.

2. Insufficient

7.98 points

Frequent and repetitive mechanical errors distract the reader. Inconsistencies in language choice (register) and/or word choice are present. Sentence structure is correct but not varied.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Mechanical errors are pervasive enough that they impede communication of meaning. Inappropriate word choice and/or sentence construction are used.

collapse APA Format assessment

APA Format

10.5 points

Criteria Description

APA Format

5. Target

10.5 points

The document is correctly formatted to publication standards. All research presented is scholarly, topic-related, and obtained from highly respected, professional, original sources. In-text citations and a reference page are complete and correct. The documentation of cited sources is free of error. The paper could readily be accepted for publication.

4. Acceptable

9.35 points

Required format is fully used. There are virtually no errors in formatting style. Scholarly research accounts for the majority of sources presented and is topic-related and obtained from reputable professional sources. Reference page is present and fully inclusive of all cited sources. Documentation is appropriate and citation style is usually correct.

3. Approaching

8.51 points

Required format is used correctly, although some minor errors may be present. Scholarly research sources are present and topic-related, but the source and quality of some references is questionable. Reference page is included and lists sources used in the paper. Sources are appropriately documented, although some errors may be present.

2. Insufficient

7.98 points

Required format is attempted, but some elements are missing or mistaken. A lack of control with formatting is apparent. Some included sources are not scholarly research or topic-related. Reference page is present. Citations are inconsistently used.

1. Unsatisfactory

0 points

Required format is rarely followed correctly. An appropriate number of topic-related scholarly research sources and related in-text citations is not present. No reference page is included. No citations are used.