Dissertation - Definition & Meaning

A dissertation is a long research paper that students at the graduate or postgraduate level write as a requirement for their degree. It is an extended piece of academic writing that requires extensive research and original analysis. Dissertations can be written in a variety of fields, such as science, social science, humanities, and education. The aim of a dissertation is to contribute to the existing knowledge of a particular field by providing new insights, ideas, and solutions to problems. The process of writing a dissertation usually involves selecting a research topic, conducting literature review, formulating research questions, collecting data, analyzing data, and presenting findings.

Other Terms Starting With D

Deferred in College

Deferred admission, or being deferred in college admissions, refers to a situation where an applicant's application for admission to a college or university is neither accepted nor rejected immediately.

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment, also known as concurrent enrollment or dual credit, refers to a program that allows high school students to enroll in college-level courses and earn credits that count towards both their high school diploma and future college degree.

Direct Instruction

Direct instruction is a teaching method that involves explicit and systematic instructional strategies to deliver content and guide student learning.

Diagnostic Assessment

A diagnostic assessment is an evaluation conducted at the beginning of a learning experience or instructional program to assess students' prior knowledge, skills, strengths, and areas for improvement.

Dean

A dean is an administrative position within an educational institution, typically found in colleges or universities.

Discourse Community

A discourse community refers to a group of people who share a common interest or professional field and communicate with one another using specialized language, knowledge, and conventions.

Digital Literacy

Digital literacy refers to the ability to use digital technologies and tools effectively and responsibly to access, evaluate, create, and communicate information.

Distance Learning

Distance learning, also known as online learning or e-learning, refers to an educational approach that enables students to access educational content and instruction remotely, often through digital technologies and the internet.