Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic.
The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.
One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.
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Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.
Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:
The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.
Your introduction should:
To guide your introduction , include information about:
As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.
In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:
Following the literature review, restate your main objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.
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To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.
For example, your results might have implications for:
Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .
Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.
Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.
Download our research schedule template
Research phase | Objectives | Deadline |
---|---|---|
1. Background research and literature review | 20th January | |
2. Research design planning | and data analysis methods | 13th February |
3. Data collection and preparation | with selected participants and code interviews | 24th March |
4. Data analysis | of interview transcripts | 22nd April |
5. Writing | 17th June | |
6. Revision | final work | 28th July |
If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.
Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:
To determine your budget, think about:
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
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Research bias
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.
Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.
A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.
A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.
A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.
All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.
Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.
The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, November 21). How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved July 23, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-proposal/
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Are you in the midst of starting a research paper? Finding the correct related literature and data for your paper is challenging, but creating your research problem is one of the crucial section of any sample paper as this defines the direction of your research. By discovering new facts, research is a methodical investigative procedure used to expand or revise present body of knowledge. Basic research, which is inquiry intended at growing scientific knowledge, and applied research, which is effort directed at leveraging basic research to solve problems or develop new processes, products, or procedures, are the two broad types. In this article, we provide you with free and ready-made samples of Research Proposal Problem Statement s to lighten your workload for your future research proposal paper . Keep on reading to find out more!
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Research Questions:
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Title: Exploring the Experiences of First-Generation College Students in Navigating Higher Education
Introduction: First-generation college students—those whose parents have not earned a college degree—face unique challenges in navigating higher education. Despite various support systems, many of these students struggle with academic, social, and financial obstacles that can impede their success. Understanding their experiences is crucial to developing more effective support mechanisms.
Problem Statement: While the number of first-generation college students continues to grow, there is limited qualitative research that delves deeply into their lived experiences and the specific challenges they encounter. Quantitative data provide an overview of their academic performance and retention rates, but fail to capture the nuanced, personal experiences of these students.
Significance of the Study: This study aims to fill the gap in literature by providing a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of first-generation college students. By exploring their stories, this research seeks to uncover the personal, social, and institutional factors that affect their academic journeys. Insights gained from this study can inform policies and practices in higher education institutions, ultimately contributing to improved support services and success rates for first-generation students.
Conclusion: By exploring these questions, the study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the experiences of first-generation college students. The findings can help educators, policymakers, and support staff create more effective interventions that address the unique needs of this population, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
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Title: Understanding the Impact of Remote Work on Employee Work-Life Balance During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Problem Statement: The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many organizations to rapidly adopt remote work practices. While this shift has been necessary to ensure public health and safety, it has also introduced significant changes to the traditional work environment. The sudden transition to remote work has blurred the boundaries between work and personal life, potentially affecting employees’ work-life balance. Despite the growing body of quantitative research on remote work productivity and efficiency, there is a significant lack of qualitative understanding of how remote work impacts employees’ work-life balance from their own perspectives.
Background: Prior to the pandemic, remote work was often seen as a flexible option that could enhance work-life balance by reducing commute times and offering more control over work schedules. However, the abrupt and widespread shift to remote work during the pandemic has created a unique situation where employees, often with little preparation or support, have had to manage their professional responsibilities alongside personal and familial obligations within the same physical space. This scenario has created a complex interplay of factors that influence work-life balance in ways that are not yet fully understood.
Significance of the Study: Understanding the impact of remote work on work-life balance is crucial for developing effective workplace policies and practices. Insights gained from this study can help organizations design better support systems that promote employee well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction. By exploring the lived experiences of employees, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and benefits of remote work, ultimately contributing to the development of more balanced and sustainable remote work practices.
Conclusion: By addressing these research questions, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the experiences of employees working remotely during the pandemic. The findings can inform organizational leaders, human resource professionals, and policymakers in creating and implementing strategies that support a healthy work-life balance for remote employees, both during the current pandemic and in future remote work scenarios.
Title: Investigating the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Personalized Learning in Higher Education
Problem Statement:
Introduction: The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have transformed various sectors, including education. In higher education, there is a growing interest in leveraging AI to enhance personalized learning, where educational experiences are tailored to individual students’ needs, preferences, and learning styles. Despite the potential benefits, the integration of AI in personalized learning presents numerous challenges and uncertainties.
Background: Personalized learning has been recognized as an effective approach to improve student engagement, motivation, and academic outcomes. Traditional methods of personalized learning rely heavily on human intervention, which can be time-consuming and limited in scalability. AI has the potential to address these limitations by providing real-time, data-driven insights and adaptive learning pathways for students. However, the implementation of AI in personalized learning is still in its infancy, and there is limited understanding of its impact on educational outcomes, student satisfaction, and the teaching-learning process.
Significance of the Study: Understanding the role of AI in enhancing personalized learning is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it can provide insights into how AI-driven personalized learning can be effectively implemented in higher education institutions. Secondly, it can help identify the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI for personalized learning from the perspectives of students, educators, and administrators. Finally, it can contribute to the development of best practices and guidelines for integrating AI in educational settings, ensuring that the technology is used ethically and effectively to enhance learning experiences.
Research Gap: While there are studies on the potential of AI in education, there is a significant gap in empirical research that explores the practical implementation and impact of AI-driven personalized learning in higher education. Most existing studies are theoretical or focus on specific AI technologies without examining their holistic impact on the learning ecosystem. This study aims to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive analysis of how AI can enhance personalized learning, considering various stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences.
Conclusion: This research aims to provide a detailed understanding of the role of AI in enhancing personalized learning in higher education. By exploring the implementation processes, stakeholder experiences, and educational outcomes, the study will offer valuable insights into the practical and ethical implications of using AI in personalized learning. The findings will contribute to the development of effective strategies and policies for integrating AI in higher education, ultimately improving the quality and accessibility of personalized learning experiences.
Title: The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
Statement of the Problem:
Introduction: In the digital age, social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have become integral parts of adolescents’ lives. While these platforms offer opportunities for socialization, self-expression, and information sharing, there is growing concern about their impact on adolescent mental health. This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes among adolescents.
Problem Statement: Despite the widespread use of social media among adolescents, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of its effects on their mental health. Existing studies provide mixed results, with some indicating negative impacts such as increased anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, while others suggest potential benefits like social support and enhanced communication skills. The conflicting findings highlight the need for a deeper exploration of how different aspects of social media use—such as time spent, types of engagement, and content exposure—affect adolescent mental health.
Background: Adolescence is a critical developmental period characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. During this time, individuals are particularly vulnerable to external influences, including those from social media. With the rapid increase in social media usage, concerns have been raised about its potential to exacerbate mental health issues among adolescents. Understanding the specific ways in which social media impacts mental health is essential for developing effective interventions and support systems.
Significance of the Study: This study is significant because it addresses a pressing public health issue. By providing a nuanced understanding of the relationship between social media use and adolescent mental health, the research can inform educators, parents, policymakers, and mental health professionals. The insights gained can guide the development of targeted strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of social media while promoting its positive aspects. Ultimately, the findings can contribute to healthier digital environments for adolescents.
Conclusion: By exploring these research questions, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationship between social media use and adolescent mental health. The findings will offer valuable insights for stakeholders involved in adolescent development and mental health, enabling them to create supportive environments that harness the benefits of social media while minimizing its potential harms.
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A problem statement is a concise description of the problem(s), and it contains a vision, issue statement, and solution technique. The goal of the research study you will propose should be clearly identified by writing a sample statement of the problem. Aside from the variety of our free templates of Research Problem Statements that is provided above, you can also make one of your own from scratch. If you’re interested in making a problem statement specific to your research paper, here are some general tips you could consider to guide you:
This answers the question “What does the world look like if the problem is solved?” Describes an ideal state or a desired aim; explains how things should be.
You demonstrate the relevance of your study by emphasizing the importance of the subject under inquiry. This does not, however, imply that you will discover something remarkable or unimaginable.
The goal is to clearly express how and why your research problem is a relevant issue in your chosen field of study and why further research is needed.
The purpose of a problem statement is to give a framework for solving the problem. A good issue statement of purpose does not provide a specific solution to any problem; instead, it focuses on how to effectively understand or solve a problem by identifying the problem’s underlying causes. After all, the end goal or general purpose of a research project is its goal.
Describe the current state of the issue, presenting existing data, statistics, or studies that highlight the prevalence or severity of the problem. Contextualize the issue within a real-world setting and provide concrete evidence to support the relevance of your research.
Discuss the potential implications and consequences if the problem is not addressed. Highlight the possible negative outcomes for individuals, communities, industries, or broader societal impacts. Convey the urgency of the research by emphasizing the critical nature of solving the problem.
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Starting a problem statement involves clearly defining the issue you intend to address. Here are some steps to help you create an effective problem statement:
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An effective research problem statement should include several key features to ensure clarity, relevance, and focus. Here are the important features:
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Identifying and delineating the research problem statement : that is, what the researcher wants to solve and what questions he or she wants to answer is the first and most crucial phase in any research. A research problem can be defined as a source of concern, a knowledge gap, or a variation from the norm or standard that necessitates further inquiry and investigation. A problem statement is a clear, concise description of the issue(s) that a research writer must address. It is used to concentrate and center the researcher(s) at the start of the effort, to keep the researcher(s) on track during the effort, and to validate that the effort produced an output that solves the issue statement. The ultimate purpose of a sample statement of the problem is to reduce a broad problem to a specific, well-defined issue that can be solved by rigorous investigation and decision-making.
It should be no more than one or two sentences in length. It should not offer a suggestion for a solution.
A problem statement should express an unfavorable difference in performance review between the existing state and the intended future state. A problem description should include absolute or relative problem measures that quantify the gap, but not probable causes or solutions.
Your research technique should be presented in the proposal sample, with particular examples to demonstrate how you will perform your research. Visits to certain libraries or archives, field work, or interviews could all be part of your strategy.
All in all, the problem statement of a sample research proposal is important as it eliminates the knowledge gap. It must be substantial in the sense that it contributes to the research in a good way and contribute to future research. Download our free, editable, and printable samples of Research Proposal Problem Statements in order to help you out with this!
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Step 3: Set your aims and objectives. Finally, the problem statement should frame how you intend to address the problem. Your goal here should not be to find a conclusive solution, but rather to propose more effective approaches to tackling or understanding it. The research aim is the overall purpose of your research.
Example of Problem Statement in Research Proposal If, for example , you intended to research the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the immune system , you would begin with a review of the current knowledge of vitamin D's known function in relation to the immune system and how a deficiency of it impacts a person's defenses.
A research problem statement is the descriptive statement which conveys the issue a researcher is trying to address through the study with the aim of informing the reader the context and significance of performing the study at hand. The research problem statement is crucial for researchers to focus on a particular component of a vast field of ...
Problem statement often has three elements; the problem itself, the method of solving the problem, and the purpose. There are five aspects of every problem: What, Where, When, to what extent, and what defects you know about the topic. Here is an example of a problem statement in a research proposal for your better understanding.
A research problem can be theoretical in nature, focusing on an area of academic research that is lacking in some way. Alternatively, a research problem can be more applied in nature, focused on finding a practical solution to an established problem within an industry or an organisation. In other words, theoretical research problems are motivated by the desire to grow the overall body of ...
Developing a 'good' research problem statement, therefore, involves systematic planning and setting time-based, realistic objectives. Your problem has to be achievable. You'll also need to apply feasible research methods based on an approach that best suits the research question. Your methods have to make sense.
Here are some general steps to follow when writing a problem statement: Identify the problem: Clearly identify the problem that needs to be addressed. Consider the context, stakeholders, and potential consequences of the problem. Research the problem: Conduct research to gather data and information about the problem.
The ultimate goal of a statement of the problem is to transform a generalized problem (something that bothers you; a perceived lack) into a targeted, well-defined problem; one that can be resolved through focused research and careful decision-making. Writing a statement of the problem should help you clearly identify the purpose of the research ...
The problem statement is a foundation of academic research writing, providing a precise representation of an existing gap or issue in a particular field of study.. Crafting a sharp and focused problem statement lays the groundwork for your research project. It highlights the research's significance.; Emphasizes its potential to influence the broader academic community.
The type of research problem you choose depends on your broad topic of interest and the type of research you think will fit best. This article helps you identify and refine a research problem. When writing your research proposal or introduction, formulate it as a problem statement and/or research questions.
Establish the relevance of this research. The problem statement also needs to clearly state why the current research matters, or why future work matters if you are writing a research proposal. Ask yourself (and tell your readers) what will happen if the problem continues and who will feel the consequences the most.
The format of a problem statement. When you write your problem statement, split it into four sections: Problem: Here, simply define what your problem is, clearly and concisely. Make it no longer than one or two sentences. Background: This is the section where you can describe what causes the problem, how often it occurs, where and when it ...
A research problem statement typically includes the following elements: 1. The research topic: The general area of interest or field of study that the research project addresses. 2. The specific problem or issue: A clear and concise statement of the problem or issue that the research project aims to address. 3.
Write a draft, step away from it, then come back and revise. Repeat this process until you're satisfied. 5. Ensure Logical Flow. Make sure your problem statement flows logically from the problem to its significance to your research objectives. 6. Check for Consistency.
Here are the steps to write an effective problem statement: 01. Understand the Problem: Begin by thoroughly understanding the problem you intend to address. Conduct research, gather data, and talk to relevant stakeholders to gain insights into the issue. Identify the scope and boundaries of the problem. 02.
Sep 14, 2018. The statement of the problem is a crucial part of a research proposal. It is therefore, very important to write a well-articulated and persuasive problem statement for your research proposal. However, many researchers find this task difficult. This podcast will teach you how write a problem statement in 3 easy steps.
From the statements the problem is low uptake of technological advancements and this is. localized or experienced in South African low income earning villages. STEP 3: The Gap the Research Intends ...
Here is an example of a statement of problem from an actual proposal: Project summary: To fund the ElderHelp Concierge Club to combine high quality care. management services with in-home volunteer services and use an innovative fee-based system - membership program that delivers the support systems seniors need at a price they can afford ...
The statement of a problem defines and describes the research hypothesis or question(s), along with the broad method that will be used to solve the problem. The statement of the problem serves as the basis for the introductory section of your project proposal. A well-formulated statement of the problem sets the stage for the rest of your study ...
Gather data and observe. Use data from research and reports, as well as facts from direct observation to answer the five Ws: who, what, when, where, and why. Whenever possible, get out in the field and talk directly with stakeholders impacted by the problem. Get a firsthand look at the work environment and equipment.
Research proposal examples. Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We've included a few for you below. Example research proposal #1: "A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management".
A concise, focused statement outlining the core issue to be addressed in your research proposal. This problem statement identifies the gap in existing knowledge, specifies the research objectives, and highlights the significance of addressing this issue to advance understanding and provide practical solutions within the field.