Designed to develop the knowledge and skills students need in order to conduct research. Under the supervision of a three-member committee, students develop a publishable-quality synthesis of the professional literature on a topic related to their research interests. Conference course. Required of all doctoral students prior to admission to candidacy. Offered on the credit/no credit basis only. Prerequisite: For Special Education 696A, graduate standing, completion of specialization core requirements, at least three graduate courses in research methods and data analysis, and consent of the graduate adviser; for Special Education 696B, 696A.