The Research Proposal

Summary

This lecture by Lydia Civilian Oh focuses on crafting a research proposal, essential for thesis and dissertations. It covers defining the purpose, choosing a topic and supervisor, and organizing the proposal into sections like title, introduction, literature review, methodology, expected results, and budget. The lecture emphasizes the importance of clarity, conciseness, and relevance in writing to ensure the research's significance and feasibility are effectively communicated.

Takeaways

• 📜 A research proposal is a statement of intent, typically for a thesis or dissertation, explaining why your research should take place.
• 🎓 A thesis is for a master's degree, while a dissertation is for a doctoral degree. A dissertation must make an original contribution to knowledge.
• 🧠 Choose a research topic you are passionate about, as you will spend significant time working on it.
• 👨‍🏫 Select a supervisor based on expertise and their ability to relate to you, as they will guide you through the process.
• 📝 A research proposal consists of key sections: title, introduction, significance, literature review, methodology, expected results, ethical statements, time frame, and references.
• 📚 The literature review outlines previous research, identifies knowledge gaps, and justifies the necessity of your study.
• 🔬 The methodology section explains the tools and methods you will use to collect and analyze data, whether qualitative or quantitative.
• 📊 Expected results should be based on previous research and must highlight possible outcomes and their implications.
• 🔒 Ethical approval is necessary if human or animal subjects are involved. Confidentiality and participant well-being must be prioritized.
• 💰 The timeline and budget should detail the research process, expected costs, and funding sources, providing a clear plan for the research.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a research proposal?

A research proposal is a statement of intent written for a thesis or dissertation. Its primary purpose is to provide the reader with a strong rationale for why the research should take place and what contribution it will make to the field.

What is the difference between a thesis and a dissertation?

A thesis is written for a master's degree and answers a research problem based on existing literature. A dissertation is written for a doctoral degree and requires a more original contribution to the body of knowledge.

How should you choose your research topic and supervisor?

Choose a research topic you are passionate about, as it will keep you motivated throughout the research process. For the supervisor, select someone with expertise in your field and with whom you can relate well.

What are the key sections in a research proposal?

The main sections are: title of study, introduction, significance of research, literature review, methodology, expected results, ethical statements, timeframe and budget, and primary references.

What is the significance of the research section?

This section explains the purpose of the research and its importance. It outlines the research objectives, the research questions, and the contribution the study will make to the field of knowledge.

What is the purpose of the literature review in a research proposal?

The literature review provides an overview of previous research in the field, highlights knowledge gaps, and explains how the proposed research will address those gaps. It also justifies the instruments and methods to be used.

What should be included in the methodology section?

The methodology section should detail how the research will be conducted, including data collection methods, tools to be used (e.g., interviews, surveys), and the type of analysis that will be performed.

What are the expected results, and why are they important in a research proposal?

Expected results give an idea of the possible outcomes of the research based on previous studies. This section demonstrates your understanding of the research field and helps to predict the value and direction of your findings.

When is ethical approval required in research proposals?

Ethical approval is required when the research involves human or animal subjects. This ensures the confidentiality, anonymity, and well-being of participants. Your supervisor can advise you on the specific requirements for your study.

What should the time frame and budget section include?

The time frame should provide a detailed timeline of the research process, including key milestones. The budget should estimate all costs involved in the research and indicate potential sources of funding.