Examining the Problem Through a Theoretical Lens and Data 

Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum,

• Review Chapter 2: Developing a Lens of Understanding of the course textbook One Step at a Time: A Roadmap for Problem Solving & Making a Difference
• Read Chapter 3: Collecting and Considering Data of the course textbook One Step at a Time: A Roadmap for Problem Solving & Making a Difference.
• Read Online Graduate Students’ Use of Research Strategies in a Cross-Cultural Action Research ProjectLinks to an external site..
• Read Doing Community-Based Action Research in an Urban Youth Sport Environment: Lessons LearnedLinks to an external site..
• Review A Closer Look: Week 2: Lenses of Understanding and A Closer Look: Week 3: Diving Into the Research.
• Review What Is CRAAPO? A Guide to Evaluating Web SourcesLinks to an external site. and SIFT: A Tool to Evaluate Information in a Digital WorldLinks to an external site..
• Read What Is 211 and How Can I Use It to Learn More About Problems in My Community?Links to an external site.
• Locate four sources of data about the problem.
  • Data can be from library resources, news articles, archived videos, personal communications, government reports, etc.

For the second part of this discussion forum, you will find four sources that contain data specifically about or relative to the problem you selected. Analyze these sources for trustworthiness and accuracy. The data sources can be in the form of articles, videos, personal communications, government reports, etc. Consider how reviewing existing research about similar situations, relevant data, facts, etc., through a theoretical lens can explain the problem.

In your discussion post,

• Summarize each data source and include the references in APA StyleLinks to an external site..
• Analyze each data source for trustworthiness and accuracy.
• Using a theoretical lens, explain how the data relate to the problem you selected.
• Identify important gaps in existing information.
• Organize and reorganize information as appropriate to gain a better understanding of the problem.
• Analyze data for major themes.