D.A. Sonnenfeld, Instructor
Fall 2013
EST 603, Research Methods and Design – Handout #4
Research Proposal: Sample Outline*
Frontmatter
Cover page
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Title
Name & contact information
Date
Abstract
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max. 200 words
w/ key words
Part I – Introduction
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Statement of the problem to be investigated
Research question
Why is this important? justification, relevance…
Part II – Conceptual framework
Review of the literature
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Key contributions
Significant debates, controversies
Important gaps
Proposed study
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Theoretical framework
Potential contribution(s)
Part III – Methods
Research design
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Formal (re)statement of research question
Hypotheses or sub-questions, as applicable
Primary dependent and independent variables
Operationalization (measurement) of key variables
Sampling design, as applicable
Max. 20 pp., double-spaced, inclusive
D.A. Sonnenfeld, Instructor
Research methods (overview)
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Data collection
Data coding, entry and management
Data interpretation and analysis
Protection of human subjects
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Relevant IRB requirements
Summary of proposed measures
Resource requirements
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Staffing (e.g. research assistants)
Materials and equipment needed
Testing and data analysis expenses
Transportation, accommodations, other expenses
Budget
Funding (possible sources)
Schedule (timeline)
Bibliography
Fall 2013