For the two NCU dissertations listed in the Resources for this week, identify in ONE sentence each the problem, purpose, research questions, methodology and design used in the study, and finally why the methodology and design selected are appropriate to answer the research questions presented. (Reminder: Methodology refers to whether the study is qualitative or quantitative, and design refers to the specific kind of study it is such as correlational.)

QUESTION

This assignment has three parts. The first part is a review of NCU dissertations to help you understand what will be expected of you as you move into the dissertation phase of your work. The second part is a general explanation of quasi-experimental research. Finally, the third part allows you to think about setting up your own quasi-experimental research.

Part 1 (2 points):

For the two NCU dissertations listed in the Resources for this week, identify in ONE sentence each the problem, purpose, research questions, methodology and design used in the study, and finally why the methodology and design selected are appropriate to answer the research questions presented. (Reminder: Methodology refers to whether the study is qualitative or quantitative, and design refers to the specific kind of study it is such as correlational.)

Part 2 (4 points):

In one page, explain what quasi-experimental research is in your own words and clearly establish how it is different from both correlational research and experimental research. Describe in detail why quasi-experimental research is used much more frequently in Education than experimental research.

• Which kind of study do you expect you would be more likely to use in your own research and why?

Part 3 (4 points):

Think of a problem in Education today that could best be addressed with quasi-experimental research. In one page, describe the problem, purpose, research questions, hypotheses, methodology and design of your study. Describe why the idea you have come up with makes more sense to address with a quasi-experimental design than either a correlational or true experimental design.

Length: 2 pages, not including title page

ANSWER

 The Dancing Wu Li Masters: Exploring the Intersection of Science and Spirituality

Introduction

The Dancing Wu Li Masters, written by Gary Zukav, is a thought-provoking exploration of the parallels between modern physics and Eastern philosophy. In this book report, we will delve into the author’s background, his thesis, notable aspects of the book, and its potential impact on challenging our existing beliefs.

Author Background

Gary Zukav is an American author and spiritual teacher known for his work in the field of consciousness, spirituality, and self-discovery. Born in 1942, Zukav initially pursued a career in science and earned a degree in physics. However, he later experienced a shift in his interests, delving into psychology, philosophy, and spirituality. It was this amalgamation of scientific and spiritual insights that led to the creation of The Dancing Wu Li Masters, first published in 1979.

Author’s Thesis

The central focus of The Dancing Wu Li Masters is to bridge the gap between the seemingly disparate realms of science and spirituality. Zukav argues that both disciplines ultimately seek to explore the fundamental nature of reality, albeit through different approaches (The World of Thought in Ancient China, n.d.). He contends that the new insights emerging from quantum physics align with ancient Eastern philosophies, challenging the traditional reductionist and materialistic worldview.

 Notable Aspects

 Intersection of Science and Spirituality: The book explores the deep connections between modern physics and ancient wisdom traditions, such as Taoism and Buddhism. Zukav eloquently presents complex scientific concepts in a manner accessible to non-scientific readers, allowing them to appreciate the profound implications of these ideas (Ayub et al., 2023).

Paradigm Shift: The Dancing Wu Li Masters introduces readers to concepts like non-locality, uncertainty, and the observer effect, challenging the deterministic worldview of classical physics. This shift in perspective invites readers to question their preconceived notions of reality and consider a more holistic understanding.

 Reflective Inquiry: Throughout the book, Zukav encourages readers to engage in personal introspection and reflection. By inviting individuals to explore their own consciousness and perceptions, he aims to deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and their role within the grand tapestry of existence.

 Impact on Beliefs

The Dancing Wu Li Masters has the potential to profoundly change or challenge the way individuals perceive the world (Paul Ernest Paper, n.d.). It offers an alternative framework for understanding reality that embraces both the rationality of science and the intuitive wisdom of spirituality. If one approaches this book with an open mind, it has the power to dismantle the dichotomy between science and spirituality, revealing a more integrated and interconnected worldview.

For those whose beliefs are already aligned with the concepts explored in the book, it serves as a powerful validation and provides a comprehensive synthesis of diverse perspectives. However, if the book fails to change or challenge existing beliefs, it is crucial to consider personal biases, resistance to new ideas, or a lack of readiness to explore alternative paradigms.

Conclusion

In The Dancing Wu Li Masters, Gary Zukav skillfully weaves together scientific principles and spiritual insights to illuminate the deep interplay between the two. By presenting profound concepts in an accessible manner, Zukav invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, challenging conventional beliefs and opening doors to new ways of perceiving the world. This book serves as a bridge between disparate disciplines, encouraging a more holistic understanding of reality that transcends traditional boundaries.

References

Ayub, S., Anugwom, G. O., Basiru, T., Sachdeva, V., Muhammad, N., Bachu, A., Trudeau, M., Gulati, G., Sullivan, A., Ahmed, S., & Jain, L. (2023). Bridging science and spirituality: the intersection of religion and public health in the COVID-19 pandemic. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1183234 

Paul Ernest Paper. (n.d.). http://socialsciences.exeter.ac.uk/education/research/centres/stem/publications/pmej/impact.htm 

The World of Thought in Ancient China. (n.d.). Google Books. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=kA0c1hl3CXUC&oi=fnd&pg=PP10&dq=central+focus+of+The+Dancing+Wu+Li+Masters+is+to+bridge+the+gap+between+the+seemingly+disparate+realms+of+science+and+spirituality.+&ots=d-dbuc5ArF&sig=5KUEFbgk0P2ieRqO_lZbbP9yIHg