Research Proposal Assignment

Learning objective
Develop a proposal for systematic inquiry informed by a literature search and clearly articulated purpose.

Assignment description:
Mixed methods study.
1. methodological approach/design
2. sampling and recruitment strategies
3. the data collection methods
4. general plans for data analysis
5. align clearly with the student’s paradigm of inquiry and purpose
6. minimum, 4 sources are required: Creswell, McEwan & McEwan, Johnson and Christensen and Patton AND/OR Robinson-Kurpius & Stafford AND/OR Fink.


The proposal will submitted in two ways:
A written paper 5 – 7 pages, double spaced. (25 points)
A one page handout and prepared presentation (5 points)


Write a 5-7 page proposal.
Create a one page handout. Concisely articulate the points in your report, in a prepared presentation to share with the class. This means, each section may be presented in bullet points, concise paragraphs, pictures, tables, etc.
Upload your assignments to Blackboard by the due date in the syllabus.



Title

Background of the Problem and Purpose of the Study (≈2 paragraphs)

In this section, provide a background for your study. What is the big picture topic/problem being addressed in your study? What worldview frames this study? Use key literature and/or statistics to support the fact that this is a topic worth studying. Cite your sources. State the research problem (the topic or issue that motivates your study). Why is this topic important/significant? What is the purpose of the study (describe briefly what the study will do to inquire into the research problem)? What theory of change informs your study?

Research Questions (≈1 – 2 sentences)
Pose one or two research questions you hope to answer with your study. Be sure that it/they are appropriate for a mixed methods study.

Research Design
Provide an introduction to the research approach you will use and why this approach is appropriate to answer your research questions. In other words, why is a mixed methods study appropriate? What type of mixed methods study do you hope to conduct and why? (≈1 paragraph)

Sampling and Recruitment (≈2 paragraphs)
In this section, you will outline your sampling of both the setting(s) and participants, and you will clearly communicate your unit of analysis (individual, group, organization etc.). Include your sampling technique for both the participants and the setting(s) and justify it, in relation to your purpose, worldview, and theory of change. Also include how you will find and recruit the appropriate research participants.

Data Collection and Instruments/Protocols (≈2 paragraphs)
In this section, write about the data collection methods you have chosen to use and why you will be using these methods to collect your data. Remember to connect your choices to your research questions. Be specific about why these methods will help you answer your specific research questions, purpose, and theory of change. Be sure to describe in detail your proposed procedures/approach for data collection including how you will capture the data.

Data Analysis (≈1 paragraph)
In this section briefly describe what your planned analysis is to answer your research questions. This section can be general and should be logically connected to the type of study being conducted.

Limitations (≈1 paragraph)
Include the anticipated limitations of your study. What can you not know or be able to say as a result of the design you have chosen?