A research proposal is a written plan for conducting a research study.
Developing a research proposal is important for numerous reasons:
A well-thought-out plan can save time and headaches later in the process.
It will save the researcher time in the long run.
It provides a detailed set of procedures for a research study.
It can provide a structure for writing a final research report.
It is often required for permission to conduct a study.
Generally speaking, research proposals share some common elements, including an introduction section, a methodology section, and a proposed timeline for activities within the study.
The introduction typically consists of a statement of the problem, purpose of the study, justification for the study, and specific research questions.
The methodology section is one of the most important components of a proposal and consists of a description of the participants, a description of the research design, methods for data collection, and methods for data analysis.
Quantitative research proposals are fairly structured, with specific components that must be addressed.
A statement of the problem provides background information and a thorough description of the context in which the problem occurs.
The purpose of the study clearly explains what the researcher is proposing to investigate.
The justification or rationale for the study provides an opportunity for the researcher to explain why a given topic is important and worthy of investigation.
Assumptions are assertions made by the researcher that are believed to be true but not verifiable.
A limitation is an aspect of a research study that is outside the researcher’s control but may have an adverse effect on the outcome of the research.
A delimitation is a restriction the researcher places on the study to limit its scope.
Proposed timelines and budgets are often included in research proposals.
Qualitative research proposals are much less structured and must contain an element of flexibility.
Qualitative research proposals often benefit from conducting prior fieldwork.
Titles are often added to qualitative research proposals to provide a context and frame of reference for the study, which is also often included as a separate subsection in the introduction.
Due to the vast amounts of potential data, strategies for data management should also be included in qualitative research proposals.
Qualitative researchers should also include a section addressing how they will establish the trustworthiness of their data and findings.
