Writing Studies Beliefs and Values As Expressed Through Research Methods Texts

Maria Miranda

Advisor: Douglas Eyman, PhD, Department of English

Committee Members: McKinley Green, Lisa Gilman

Horizon Hall, #4225, and https://gmu.zoom.us/j/98309471434?pwd=1TKSZaGS5u7fkZa2OPhwkqNowpn0Fv.1
December 04, 2025, 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM

Abstract:

The guiding research question for this study asks: Does writing studies have a set of research assumptions, as a field, and how do these affect our teaching of research methods? This dissertation traces the evolution of the values and beliefs espoused by the field through its choice of research methods by identifying and evaluating the common texts used to teach research methods courses in Rhetoric/Composition programs. The project uses a qualitative approach that begins by conducting a survey of current texts assigned in rhetoric and composition research methods courses; these texts are then analyzed using textual and discourse analysis methods to catalog the ideologies, values, and beliefs presented therein. The results are used to develop strategic approaches that address those assumptions, values, and beliefs found in the research methods texts so that when we teach methods courses, we can respond to these texts using approaches that can center social justice frameworks.