For this critical assignment, we were required to complete essential CITI training courses related to the ethical treatment of human subjects, including Social and Behavioral Research and Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) for Principal Investigators. After completing the required certifications, we reflected on how to apply ethical principles—Respect for Persons, Beneficence, and Justice—within the context of our own research involving human participants. This process helped us ensure that our study aligns with Marymount University's IRB policies and that we are fully prepared to protect the rights, welfare, and confidentiality of our participants throughout the research process.

This version served as the first draft of the Methodology chapter for my Dissertation in Practice proposal. While it is not yet complete and may contain errors, it reflects the initial integration of key components developed throughout the semester, including the research paradigm, participant selection, instruments, and data collection procedures. These sections were drafted based on peer and instructor feedback from earlier assignments, as well as prior work on the Introduction, References, and Appendix. This version is intended to organize and clarify my emerging research design, and I welcome feedback to strengthen the overall structure and alignment of the methodology with the study’s goals.

For this full semester critical assignment, we were tasked with completing the IRB application process for our dissertation in practice, ensuring that our research aligns with Marymount University's guidelines for the ethical protection of human subjects. This involved preparing all required components of the IRB proposal, understanding that revisions may be necessary before final approval. While some projects may qualify as exempt, engaging in this process helped us gain practical experience in navigating IRB protocols, which is an essential part of conducting ethical research. The application was compiled using the Marymount Mentor site and shared with both our professor and LDFM for feedback and eventual submission.

For this full semester critical assignment, we were required to complete the final draft of the Methods section for our dissertation in practice proposal. After receiving peer feedback on key components such as the Research Paradigm, Participants, Instruments, and Measures, we revised and integrated these sections along with the Introduction, References, and Appendix developed in earlier assignments. This final draft was submitted for instructor feedback and grading, ensuring that our methodological approach is clearly articulated and aligned with the overall research design.