RESEARCH PROJECT GUIDELINES

RESEARCH PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

CHAPTER I: Introduction [30 MARKS]

This chapter contains five (5) components. It describes (a) an introduction and background to the study, (b) the problem statement, (c) the purpose of the study, (d) the significance of the research, and (g) the definitions of terms.

1. Introduction: The student introduces the topic of the study and the background for the study. Background information should include community/agency assessment information such as the incidence or prevalence of the problem, a summary of what is known and the possible gaps in the current knowledge or practice arena. It should also include why the problem of study and intervention is important. In general, this section will have 1-2 pages.2. Problem statement: This section expresses what concepts or variables were examined. This statement logically flows from the introduction and background above. This section will have 1-2 pages.3. The purpose of the study: Research aim, research question or hypothesis, and research objectives. This section will have 1-2 pages.4. The significance of the research: This section serves as the justification for conducting the project. For example, historical trends within the problem/project interest, conflicts in existing literature, new technologies and methods, and any other issues that have been used to develop and support the value of the project. This section will have 1-2 pages.5. Definition of terms: Placed in alphabetical order, all major project variables are defined. This section will have 1-2 pages.CHAPTER 2: Review of the Literature [30 MARKS]

In this chapter there is an exhaustive review of recent and related literature. Subheadings of the review are suggested: (a) overview (literature related to the history of the problem, concepts, viewpoints, etc.); (b) opinions of experts (compare and contrast points of view); (c) review of research (compare and contrast findings); (d) present status of topic including community assessment data, and how the present project extends knowledge and practice; and (e) summary statements (how the present project is related to all the above). Other organizational patterns are possible, as long as the various components are included. The student MUST present a complete picture (based on the literature) of the conceptual/theoretical basis, opinions/research to date, and the relationship of the present project to the above. Citations of older classic works in the field are acceptable if they are relevant. All studies cited, individually and collectively, are critiqued, and then used to develop a clear and compelling argument for why the project was justified. This section will have 10-15 pages.CHAPTER 3: Methods and Procedures [30 MARKS]

In this chapter the methods and procedures used in the project are elaborated. Each procedural component is explained in detail, and is related to the statement(s) of need. In this chapter, the exact process used to answer the statement(s) of need is specified. The procedures are specific enough that another researcher can replicate the project. This chapter should include: Study design (type of study)

Study population and sampling

Data collection methods and instruments

Data analysis methods if applicable statistical planning must be fully addressed, or the candidate should provide evidence that statistics are not required.

Mechanisms to assure the quality of the study e.g. control of bias, safe storage of data

Study period - Timetable for completion of the project

Participants in the study all people involved in the study, and the role they play, should be identified.*

Ethical considerations

Resources required for the study, including budget if applicable

This section will have 7 - 10 pages.

CONCLUSION (5 MARKS)

The final section of the research proposal is the overall conclusion of the proposal. The conclusions are a general summing up, reached by implications for information practitioners and the importance of conducting the research. This section will have 1 - 2 pages.

RESEARCH PROPOSAL FORMATTING (5 MARKS)

The report must follow all guidelines for form and style as demonstrated in the 5th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA). Appendices (copy of questionnaire, consent forms, etc.)

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