We shall consider research proposal to guide you if it is required by your supervisory committee.
What then is the purpose of a research proposal?
The main purpose of a dissertation, thesis, or research proposal is to specify the following:
• why the research problem warrants investigation;
• that the proposed methodology is appropriate and feasible;
• that the results make an original contribution to the research field and indicate areas for further research.
The research proposal provides an outline of the premise of what you are proposing to research. However, it is subject to adaptation as the research proceeds. It serves as a starting point for development and discussion with the assistance of your research or thesis supervisor.
Components of a research proposal.Typically the research proposal will include:
• aims and objectives
• statement of hypothesis or research ‘problem’
• literature review of previous research in the area and justification for further research
• proposed methodology
• expected results and contribution to body of knowledge
• requirements for equipment, materials, field trips, and funding (if applicable)
• approximate time by which each stage will be completed
The length of the research proposal depends upon the requirements of your discipline. Details should be available in your course handbook.
Under the aims and objectives.You are expected to state the purpose of this piece of research. Then provide a detailed list of objectives, for example:
Statement of hypothesis or research question.State the hypotheses you are trying to test or the question that you are you trying to answer
Description of literature review.This is a summary of academic literature about your subject, and will contain most of your sources. Therefore you should identify which sources you are going to consult in which fields / areas and the rationale for doing so. You should demonstrate why the investigation and examination of selected research studies will contribute to your research.
The Methodology answers the questions of Why, Who, What, How and Where of the proposed research.The Methodology section can vary in length and content, depending upon the research topic and approach to investigation. This section should include a detailed explanation of the sample population, procedures, timelines, objectives, research limitations, type of data collection, ethical considerations, and method of analysis.
Why: restate research problem or hypothesis.Before describing the methodology it is a good idea to re-state the research problem before describing how this is to be researched.
Who: sample population.Define and describe the sample population and associated demographics (who are you investigating and where are they from?), Is there likely to be any bias or difficulties from the point of view of gender, age, race, sexuality, religious beliefs, political affiliation, educational level, etc. You must demonstrate that a sufficient number of subjects have been investigated so that there is a solid basis for your findings and claims.
Where:research environment.Will the research take place within a specified location, institution, range of institutions, or work-related environment.
What and How:You should include a statement of whether the methodology is qualitative or quantitative or a combination, and why this method was suitable for research. Include a detailed explanation of data collection methods such as surveys, interviews, questionnaires, focus groups and case studies. You must demonstrate that you have analysed the advantages and limitations of your method of data collection.
Resources: Outline / describe the resources you will require to complete your research in terms of materials, equipment, costs.
Time-frame: Identify the time-frame for each stage of your research.
Thanks.
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