Synthesize the Research on Your Topic

Part 1:

Download the Synthesizing and Analyzing Research Matrix in the Section 1 tab in the Applied Doctoral Center.  

Complete this matrix using the ten resources you obtained in Lesson 1. Be sure to replace inappropriate resources with new ones based on feedback from your instructor.  

Submit the completed matrix along with your synthesis in Dropbox. 

Part 2: Write a Synthesis of the Research on Your Topic 

Doctoral-level researchers demonstrate knowledge of their field of expertise through the ability to synthesize appropriate literature on their topic. Synthesizing the literature is more than just re-stating the results of previous studies; it is your critical evaluation of the literature and your interpretation of main themes, areas of consensus, and issues currently being debated about your topic. Through evaluating, comparing, and contrasting the guiding frameworks, methods, and findings of individual articles, you develop your interpretation (or voice) concerning the quality of the evidence on your topic.  

Topic:  Health Disparities in Healthcare Access Among Minorities

Here are some helpful tips to help you get organized and prepared to write your synthesis: 

 As you review your articles 

• Look for patterns in conceptual frameworks used in the study, research design/methods, and findings.
• Compare and contrast methods, approaches, and findings of authors.
• Evaluate and interpret what is known in your field and what, if anything, is missing. 

Write a 2-3 page synthesis of the evidence on your topic. Your synthesis results from your analysis and appraisal of the current literature.  

 2-3 pages, not including title and reference pages.