Many doctoral learners are anxious to find and focus on a dissertation topic early in their program. Often they are even trying to think through their methodology (e.g., I would like to survey...and determine…). They often get frustrated with this exercise because they haven’t thoroughly explored the topic including existing research. It is difficult, if not impossible, to intelligently discuss a specific methodology without a focused question. To find and develop a focused research question, I suggest that the learner follow a systematic approach to exploring their areas of interest first and wait until they enter the comprehensive phase to actually narrow the focus of their topic.

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Phase 1

During the entrance and orientation phase, I recommend that they create a mind map of their topic of interest and identify all the related issues, disciplines, and factors.

Phase 2

During the coursework phase, I recommend that the learner explore the areas of greatest interest and least knowledge from the mind map. This is the divergent phase where the problem actually expands and more data is added to the mind map. This is the time to delve into the research and contemporary journal articles. By the time the coursework is complete, the mind map should be a comprehensive picture of the topic.

Phase 3

At the comprehensive phase, I recommend the learner choose four of the most interesting areas from the mind map to further research. These questions should represent the overall program of study. This is the convergent phase where the learner narrows the focus of their topic down to the few most salient areas. The result of this phase is a much deeper appreciation of five key areas related to their topic.

Phase 4

The dissertation phase is the culmination of the journey! After the learner has explored the landscape during their coursework and looked deeper into five areas during the comprehensives, they are ready to focus in on an area of their topic that meets three criteria: it is important, it needs further research, and it is doable. At this time the research question or hypothesis emerges. After the question or hypothesis emerges the appropriate research methodology can be crafted and customized.

Developing a Degree Completion Plan

Below are two resources to check out when developing your degree completion plan.

Jim Collins’ Hedge Hog Concept

Whether you are just starting your doctoral journey or are a seasoned veteran, Jim Collins' Hedge Hog Concept will help you focus in on the intersection of three concepts: what you are passionate about, what you can be the best at, and what you can make money at. Recommendation - Go to the Hedge Hog link above, read the materials and do the exercises including "exploring your three circles."

When you have your Hedge Hog concept you are ready to answer the three big questions in the DCP.

1. Where are you now?

2. Where do you want to go?

3. How should your graduate program be designed in order to get you there?

Po Bronson

Finally, check out the Fast Company article "What Should I Do With My Life?" by Po Bronson. Originally published in Fast Company Issue 66, page 69.