This is a required course for doctoral students in the Department of Elementary Education. Provides students with opportunities to explore issues in educational research from a philosophical and historical perspective. Prior to choosing methods and data sources, a researcher must first be aware of and be able to defend their theoretical framework which is based on an understanding of ontology, epistemology, methodology and ethics. The purpose of this course is to expose students to the perspectives, issues and questions in these four areas so that they may begin to develop a philosophical understanding of the research process. Prerequisite: EDEL 567 or consent of the Department.