This is the second in a four-course sequence designed to prepare students for the culmination of the doctoral program: the dissertation. The course is designed to help students apply and refine their research ideas by developing a comprehensive review of the literature. Over four semesters students are guided to develop a draft dissertation proposal (pre-dissertation proposal) to coincide with completion of their course work. First year students have separate course work designed to help them frame their ideas into research questions, conduct a detailed review of the literature, and start planning a methodology. First year students also join advanced students in discussing their ideas and research plans. Second year students are required to submit a brief 10-page pre-dissertation proposal (dissertation pre-proposal 10pp) in order to pass CED 893. Once students complete the seminars and comprehensive exams, they use their 10-page pre-dissertation proposal and work with a Dissertation Committee Chair to craft a full dissertation proposal.