ABSTRACT
The final chapter examines what happens during the final dissertation defense as well as the potential next steps of the students’ academic and professional careers. The goal of the dissertation defense is not only to present the conclusions from a well-designed and well-executed qualitative research study, but also to consider the implications for communities of practice and allow space for students to demonstrate their expertise. The chapter outlines key steps necessary to finalize the dissertation and prepare for the final defense. The chapter concludes by summarizing the importance of scholarly practitioners, those individuals who can bring research to bear upon and improve issues of practice.
