The Anatomy of a Self-Study Dissertation: A Teacher Finds Her Dissertation Through the Journaling Process

• In Event: Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: Constructing Identities Through Self-Study

Abstract

This is study analyzes the role of journaling in the dissertation writing process. It draws from the theoretical foundations of reflective teaching/journaling, social constructivism and self-study. A systematic qualitative analysis of eighty-two journal entries, written by a doctoral student during the data gathering phase of her dissertation research revealed journaling as a successful tool for: 1) the Evolution of the Dissertation, 2) Bridging the Gap From Teacher Research to Theoretical Dissertation Research, 3) moving Theory – To – Practice – To – Students, and 4) reinforcing the idea that Learning is Socio-Cultural and Experiential. This study is educationally significant for university professors, and graduate students as it provides tools and insights for improving the dissertation research and writing process.

Authors

• Amber Strong Makaiau, University of Hawaii - Manoa

• Anne R. Freese, University of Hawaii