In this stage of research, the student decides on the focus of his or her dissertation by completing the review of the literature and refining the student’s dissertation topic. This research stage also requires the student to state the problem and to elucidate all the issues involved in his or her dissertation research. The student identifies the problem posed to the organization, as well as the consequences of solving or not solving the problem. By the end of the face-to-face instructional component of this course, the student finalizes his or her dissertation topic and submits that topic in writing to the program director. The student also determines the materials, time and expertise needed to develop a successful plan of action. By the end of the face-to-face instructional component of this course, the student identifies in writing to the program director the name of and contact information for, as well as the CV or resume of, the student’s dissertation committee chair, and by the conclusion of the course the student submits to the program director the names and contact information for, as well as the CVs or resumes of, all members of the student’s dissertation committee. Also, by the conclusion of this course, the student has completed completed a draft of the first three chapters of the dissertation, has proofread that draft and has submitted his or her research proposal to Spalding University’s Research Ethics Committee.