Prospectus: Significance

The significance section of the prospectus informs the reader why the study is needed. Sometimes it helps to realize that you are "selling" your idea- convince the reader that it is necessary. 

Describe how this study will contribute to filling the gap that you identified in the problem statement. What original contribution will your study make? Keep in mind that is the main criteria the program director will use to determine whether your study is of "dissertation quality." 

Discuss how your research will support professional practice or allow practical application. This part should answer the "so what?" question. Picture your chair asking you: so what? Why do we need this study? 

Finally, discuss how the significance you have highlighted aligns with your problem statement to reflect the potential relevance of this study to society. This is getting at the bigger picture: How might the potential findings lead to positive social change? Use the "4Ds" as you think about the social change: death, disabilities, disease, & dollars. These are the four elements of social change. 

Next time we take a look at the Prospectus: Background. Do you have an issue or a question that you would like me to discuss in a future post? Would you like to be a guest writer? Send me your ideas! leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu