PROPOSAL SUMMARY
Provide a summary of the proposal, up to 300 words in length, using non-technical language that is understandable by non-experts.It must accurately reflect the content of the proposal. It is normally one paragraph, is concise and summarises the entire proposal, therefore it must include the:
• Research question/problem
• Theoretical framework
• Research design -sampling method
• Data collection methods
• Data analysis
• Potential significance and/or benefits
RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Please write a substantive research proposal with a 10,000 word maximum (excluding Appendices) – note that this is a maximum word limit and not a target. Use the following headings as a guide. You are able to type over the text under each header. If any of these are not applicable to your proposal, briefly justify.
Working Title
The current proposed title of the research.
Research Question(s)
Clearly state the research question(s). The research question should be clear and focused and summarises the issue you will investigate.
Rationale and Significance of the Study
The key reasons for undertaking the research, with a focus on why the study is worth undertaking.
Literature/Past Research Review
The purpose of this section is to identify the gap in literature to support the research direction. This should include a brief account of how the proposed project relates to existing knowledge and literature within the appropriate field.
Design of the Study
An outline of the research design. This includes methodology, methods and analysis.
References
A list of sources referred to in the proposal.
Ethical Approval (Not Applicable to me)
If ethics approval is required, please attach a copy of the letter(s) of approval. If not yet granted, this must be indicated, along with details of which committee(s) will be approached. A copy of approval letter(s) must be submitted to the Postgraduate Office within 6 months of the confirmation of candidature.
Resources and Budget ( Not Applicable to me)
Identify any additional resources you will need over and above those provided by UNIVERSITY. Provide a planned budget for your research and how this will be funded.
Location ( I would prefer any online if you want to include in methodologies)
Indicate where the research will be conducted, and if not at UNIVERSITY, provide a brief justification and indicate how communication and resource issues will be addressed.
Progress and Activity to Date ( Not Applicable to me)
Specifically address the past 6 months and any issues raised in the previous Progress Report.
Timetable for Completion
Provide an outline of the major activities required to complete your research and write up your thesis (including activities partially completed). Indicate the dates by which you expect to complete each activity.
Publications and Presentations
List any research outputs directly relating to the student’s research to date. e.g. papers, presentations and publications.
References
• Referencing: when citing references please specify the referencing style you will use (e.g. APA). This specified style should be used throughout the entire proposal.