Action Research Option

Description

This is the most common capstone project and is based on the action research model. It is conducted in a classroom setting with the teacher/researcher being integral in the action research process. Since it includes human subjects, Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is required and all FERPA requirements must be addressed.

Research Timeline

The study is usually designed during MSSE 509, and research is usually conducted in January and February. It is possible for research to be gathered during a different time, so please work with your Project Advisor if you anticipate this scenario.

Paper Structure

The paper follows the standard five-chapter Capstone Paper Outline:

1. Introduction and Background;

2. Conceptual Framework;

3. Methodology;

4. Data Analysis: Claims and Evidence;

5. Value: Reasoning and Reflection.

Science Research Option

Description

A science research study option often meets the needs of students who do not intend to pursue classroom instruction after completing their degree or who have an interest in a specific science research topic.

Research Timeline

The first task is to identify a science researcher who is willing to be your Project Advisor. Under their direction, the research question and methodological approach are developed. This may include gathering data in the field or laboratory. In some cases, students have analyzed existing data sets. Students choosing this option usually take MSSE 505 and MSSE 509, but in some circumstances, an independent study may replace MSSE 509.

Paper Structure

The general outline of the paper includes:

1. Introduction & Background;

2. Conceptual Framework;

3. Methodology;

4. Data Analysis;

5. Results; and

6. Value: Reasoning and Reflection.

The paper outline specifics are at the direction of the Project Advisor and may change based on the science content of the study. In most cases, IRB approval is not needed.

Educational Scholarship Option

Description

The educational scholarship option is an in-depth examination of a science-based educational topic that results in resources for the author and others to use in their classrooms. It can be on any number of science and/or science education related topics, including, but not limited to, teaching strategies, pedagogy, or science content. No IRB approval is required. 

Paper Structure

The outline for the paper includes:

1. Introduction and Background;

2. Conceptual Framework;

3. Instructional Strategies;

4. Value: Reasoning and Reflection.

Journal Article Option

Description

Writing a journal article as the main body of a capstone paper is for students interested in publishing. It can take the basic form of any of the options listed above. It requires students to adhere to the requirements of two formatting protocols: one for the journal and one for MSSE.

Depending on the type of research model, IRB may or may not be required. The final grade of the paper is not contingent upon the article being published after submission. In many cases, the Project Advisor and perhaps the science reader are co-authors of the article.

Paper Structure:

The general outline is that the Introduction and Background are written in the MSSE writing format. The article is written according to the requirements of the journal and is inserted into the paper after the Introduction and Background chapter. This chapter's title the same as the journal article title. Then the final Value: Reasoning and Reflection chapter is next and is again in the MSSE writing format.

To summarize, the paper chapters are as follows:

1. Introduction and Background (following MSSE formatting)

2. Insert your article here. The title for this chapter will be the same as your journal article title. Formatting will be what the journal requires.

3. Value: Reasoning and Reflection (following MSSE formatting)