This step-by-step guide to writing a dissertation is for doctoral students of education who are also currently working in the field. The book walks readers through the whole process, from finding a topic though defending the dissertation, and provides examples of successful and less successful student work. The book also explains the roles of the dissertation chair and the dissertation committee. The final chapter gives tips on handling conflict and other difficult situations during the defense, and gives hints on academic journal publishing and finding a full-time job in higher education. The book includes a list of print resources on research methods and design. Butin is founding dean of the School of Education at Merrimack College. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)