The purpose of this assignment is to keep the doctoral learner focused on dissertation success. The Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Significance of the Study section of the dissertation identifies the “gap” or “need” in the literature that was used to define the problem statement and develop the research questions. Further, it describes how the study will address the “gap” or “identified need.” The section describes how the research fits with and will contribute to or advance the current literature or body of research. Although this advancement may be a small step forward in a line of current research, it must add to the current body of knowledge and align to the learner’s program of study.

General Requirements:

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

• Refer to the potential research design you drafted as an assignment in a previous course.
• Retain this paper for reference in future courses.
• 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 the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association for specific guidelines related to doctoral level writing. The Manual contains 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. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for assistance.

Directions:

Write a report (500-750 words) in which you:

1. Identify the “gap” or “need” in the literature that was used to define the problem statement and develop the research questions.
2. Describe how your study will fit with and contribute to or advance the current literature or body of research.