Description
Development and completion of capstone project that demonstrates the student’s ability to understand, construct, and execute original research in science education.

A thesis is the report of extended research activity. It is based on a problem identified by the participant; a research plan is then established and executed. The thesis shows your independent and creative research ability, adds new information to the body of knowledge about your subject, and positively impacts the research participants. This research establishes you in the science education research community and gives you the basis for many research papers that can be published in professional journals. This may also be the basis for a doctoral dissertation.  If you have any concerns about your readiness for this course, please discuss issues with your advisor. 

SCE 8398 is a required core course for the Master of Arts in Teaching – Science Education (MAT-SE) Online degree program offered by the Science/Mathematics Education Department (SciMathEd) at The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas).  This course may be repeated. 

Offered completely online, this course has the same learning objectives as the on-campus section. Meeting or exceeding the UT TeleCampus ‘Principles of Good Practice’, a student-centered approach promotes high expectations for coursework and academic performance. Established on a solid foundation of scientific research and academic excellence, this course specifically supports the MAT-SE Online program goal to produce students who are able to use and contribute to current educational research and methodology.

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Objectives
The goal of this course is for students to contribute to the body of research in science education. Toward that end, students will be able to participate as a peer in the science education research community. Students will produce a research document that meets the University and program requirements for a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and conduct a formal defense of the thesis through an electronic presentation or traditional on-campus defense.