Instructions Research Proposal Draft By the due date assigned, write a 2 page paper addressing the sections below of the research proposal. Methodology •Extraneous Variables (and plan for how controlled). •Instruments: Description, validity, and reliability estimates, which have been performed (on a pre-established measure). Include plans for testing validity and reliability of generating your own instrument(s). •Description of the Intervention •Data Collection Procedures
Research Proposal Draft
Methodology
Introduction
The methodology section of a research proposal is a crucial part of the overall document. It outlines the specific methods and procedures that will be used to collect and analyze data in order to address the research question or objective. This section provides a roadmap for how the research study will be conducted and helps ensure that the study maintains rigor and validity.
Extraneous Variables (and plan for how controlled)
Extraneous variables are factors that could potentially influence the outcome of the research study, but are not the main focus of investigation. It is important to identify and control for these variables in order to minimize their impact on the study’s results. In this section, the researcher should describe the extraneous variables that may be present in the study and outline a plan for how they will be controlled.
The first step in controlling extraneous variables is to identify them. This can be done through a thorough literature review and by consulting with experts in the field. Once the extraneous variables have been identified, the researcher can develop a plan for how to control them. This may involve random assignment of participants to different groups, matching participants on key variables, or using statistical techniques to control for the influence of these variables.
It is important to note that not all extraneous variables can be controlled. In such cases, the researcher should acknowledge these variables and discuss their potential impact on the study’s results. By identifying and controlling for as many extraneous variables as possible, the researcher can enhance the internal validity of the study.
Instruments: Description, validity, and reliability estimates, which have been performed (on a pre-established measure). Include plans for testing validity and reliability of generating your own instrument(s).
In this section, the researcher should provide a detailed description of the instruments that will be used to collect data for the study. This can include surveys, questionnaires, interviews, or observation protocols. The description should outline the purpose of each instrument and how it will be administered.
Validity and reliability are two key aspects of instrument quality. Validity refers to the extent to which an instrument measures what it is intended to measure. Reliability, on the other hand, refers to the consistency or stability of the instrument’s measurements. These two qualities are essential for ensuring the accuracy and precision of the data collected.
The researcher should provide evidence of the validity and reliability of the instruments that have already been established in the field. This can be done by citing previous studies that have used the same or similar instruments and have reported on their psychometric properties. The researcher should also describe any additional validity and reliability tests that will be conducted specifically for the current study, including plans for pilot testing the instruments on a small sample of participants.
If the researcher plans to develop and use their own instrument(s), they should outline the steps they will take to establish the validity and reliability of these instruments. This can include conducting expert reviews, pilot testing, and analyzing the internal consistency of the instrument using statistical techniques such as Cronbach’s alpha.
Description of the Intervention
The intervention refers to the specific treatment or program that will be implemented as part of the research study. This section should provide a detailed description of the intervention, including its objectives, content, and methods of implementation.
The researcher should clearly explain the rationale behind the chosen intervention and how it is expected to address the research question or objective. Additionally, the researcher should outline any theoretical frameworks or evidence-based approaches that support the intervention’s effectiveness.
Data Collection Procedures
This section should outline the procedures that will be used to collect data for the research study. The researcher should describe the specific methods and techniques that will be employed, as well as any potential challenges or limitations that may be encountered.
The data collection procedures should be clearly outlined in a step-by-step manner, from the recruitment and consent process to the actual data collection methods. This can include details on how participants will be recruited, how informed consent will be obtained, whether data will be collected in person or remotely, and any measures that will be taken to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of the data.
It is also important for the researcher to discuss any potential biases or limitations in the data collection procedures. This could include factors such as sample size limitations, participant attrition, or potential sources of measurement error. By acknowledging these limitations, the researcher can ensure transparency and provide a more accurate interpretation of the study’s findings.
Conclusion
The methodology section of a research proposal is crucial for outlining the specific methods and procedures that will be used to address the research question or objective. It provides a clear roadmap for how the study will be conducted, ensuring rigor, validity, and reliability. By addressing extraneous variables, describing instruments and their validity and reliability, outlining the intervention, and detailing data collection procedures, the researcher can enhance the quality and credibility of their study.