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Research Methodology Module-02

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Kishor Ade
Kishor Ade

1. The methodology section outlines the key elements of the research process including the research design, study population and sampling, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures. 2. It describes how each research objective will be achieved with sufficient detail for an independent assessment, and includes restating the research questions/hypotheses, describing the study population and sampling methodology, data collection tools and variables, data analysis processes, and any unique laboratory or research procedures. 3. The goal is to minimize assumptions, demonstrate a scientifically sound approach, ensure the study corresponds to the objectives, and provide details on the research design, data collection, researcher training, access to facilities/equipment, ethics procedures, limitations, and timeline.

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Module 2 RM Developing a research proposal 1) FORMAT OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL SUGGESTED FORMAT FOR THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL The format for the research proposal should consist of the following: 1. Proposed Title of the Research Proposal/Project The title of the Research Proposal must reflect clearly and succinctly the area of the research that is to be embarked on. In other words a title should describe the content of the thesis accurately and concisely. 2. The Introduction to the Research Proposal/Project The Introduction must consist of a general description of the background of the research, associated questions and the problems involved in it. 3. Objectives of the Research Proposal/Project The necessary context should be set for the research objectives to ensure that its importance, significance and essential nature is clearly demonstrated in the proposal. 4. The Problem Statement The problems involved in the research must be clearly defined as it will help to present the rationale of the entire study. 5. Literature Review This part of the proposal will contain an analysis of other associated research works or studies pertinent to the proposed research area and it will help toward the formation of the research methodology. 6. Research Methodology This will require an understanding of alternative research methods known and the approach to be adopted in this particular study. 7. The expected Work Schedule/Timeline The schedule or timeline for the proposed completion of the research should be listed to enable an understanding of the allocation of resources to be made.
8. The expected Research/Project Outcome or Contribution of the same This would involve a discussion on the expected research findings based on existing literature and information in the area. 9. References Any referencing system used must be consistent and contain names of authors, books and journals. The volume, issue and page numbers with the publication year must also be listed. 2) INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH PROPOSAL Proposing an independent study is an indication that you have reached the level where you are capable of taking ownership of your personal and educational development. Independent study is an opportunity to explore a specific topic that interests you in more depth. Once you identify a topic of interest, do your research so you can convince the decision-makers that they should approve your application. Check to see whether your university or department has a form you can download for an independent study project, or if writing a proposal is part of the independent study Step 1 State the purpose of your independent study. Also indicate the dates for the study and how much credit you are requesting for the independent study. Step 2 Identify the topic you are going to study. Write a short paragraph outlining the area you are interested in. If your topic involves off-campus research, such as interviews or visiting museums for research, be sure to include that information. Step 3 Write your proposal for an independent study in the first person. Use small words when possible. When you change ideas, change paragraphs. The committee or head of the department wants to know that you have considered all aspects of your independent study. Step 4 Maintain an academic tone at all times. You want to sound objective and lay your ideas out in a logical way. Make it flow from one section to another.
Step 5 Explain why your topic or area of study is relevant. Try to draw your independent study into the bigger-picture of what you want to achieve as a student. Look at it as "something" more you want to do. Step 6 Identify your research methodology. Let the committee know if you are going to use a qualitative or a quantitative paradigm. You may also want to add a note about why you decided to use your chosen methodology. Step 7 Present a reading list and indicate a working bibliography. List books and journal articles you have already read on the topic of your independent study, and indicate what you need to read for a better understanding. Step 8 Establish how your independent study will be evaluated. Independent studies generally require a major essay, so be sure to include at least one written report as well as other assessments, such as presenting a paper at a conference 3) INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH PROPOSAL The Nature and Purpose of Institutional Research Institutional research is research conducted within an institution of higher education to provide information which supports institutional planning, policy formation and decision making. The institution may be a single campus, a multi-campus system, a state or provincial system or an even larger grouping of colleges and universities. Although the activity of institutional research is commonly associated with the individual campus, it also is carried out within higher education systems to serve the governance responsibilities which reside there. Institutional research can be distinguished from research on postsecondary education which has as its purpose the advancement of knowledge about and practice in postsecondary education generally. The subject of institutional research is the individual college, university, or system. While institutional research can involve data and analyses which contribute to wider knowledge about how colleges and individuals function, this type of result generally is not sought for its own sake.
Activities of institutional research are frequently undertaken in association with specific planning, policy, or decision situations. Information to answer specific questions is desired. How many sections of a specific course should be offered? By what amount should tuition rates be increased to produce a target amount of tuition income? Is attrition a problem at our institution? Are our faculty salaries competitive with those paid by peer institutions? Are the outcomes of our degree programs what the stated purposes of the programs suggest they should be? Institutional research designed to answer such questions is a form of applied research The Place of Institutional Research in the Organization Institutional Research is carried out in the individual academic and administrative units of the college or university in support of the information needs, planning and decision- making responsibilities which reside at the unit level. At some colleges and universities, a conscious decision had been made that each unit in central administration will be responsible for institutional research relating to the activities of that unit. There may be no formally identified offices for institutional research in these institutions, but this does not mean that the activity is absent. Rather, it is dispersed and carried out by persons who may have principal responsibilities other than institutional research. Economy and in- depth knowledge of the matters studied may be points in favor of such arrangements. Problems of dispersed institutional research are duplication, a lack of research expertise in some or many institutional domains, an inability to deal with issues which cross organizational boundaries, and an absence of an institution-wide view in the research activities. Characteristics of Effective Institutional Research The first is that of purpose. Assumptions are involved in institutional research Communication of the findings of institutional research takes a variety of forms. Oral reports, in person or on the phone, are made to answer generally straightforward questions Personal computers, local area networks, electronic mail, desk-top publishing, and advanced graphics capabilities have added options for the communication of results of institutional research A consideration of the content of an institutional research report may illuminate the nature of the activity and the manner in which it aids planning, policy formulation and decision making
While written reports are important products of institutional research, it is often desirable to attempt to ensure that research undertaken is relevant and research completed is useful Basic Tools of Institutional Research First, the conversion of data in the institution's operational data processing systems into management information frequently is a responsibility of the office of institutional research Computer technology has enabled the development of such management information systems The decision support system (DSS) constitutes another method of carrying out institutional research A relative of the decision support system is the executive support system (ESS), also referred to as the executive information system (EIS). Modeling is also employed in institutional analysis. It involves the specification of mathematical relationships among variables of institutional operation. Another technique of institutional research is comparative analysis Contributions of Institutional Research to Planning, Decision Making, and Policy Formulation The range and variety of problems, questions and issues which arise in higher education and for which institutional research is relevant defy categorization or enumeration. Any administrator and any committee may seek institutional research to inform plans, decisions and actions. In many cases the researcher can aid in specifying the information to be brought to bear on a problem or issue and, for this reason, should be included at an early stage. The breadth of the potential applicability of institutional research is indicated by the following illustrations. 4) SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL This section, often referred to as the "rationale" is crucial, because it is one place in which the researcher tries to convince an audience that the research is worth doing. It should establish why the audience should want to read on. It could also persuade someone of why he or she would want to support, or fund, a research project. One way to do this is by describing how the results may be used.
Overall, this section answers several questions. Why is this work important? What are the implications of doing it? How does it link to other knowledge? How does it stand to inform policy making? Why is it important to our understanding of the world? What new perspective will you bring to the topic? What use might your final research paper have for others in this field or in the general public? Who might you decide to share your findings with once the project is complete? Think about how your research: *may resolve theoretical questions in your area * may develop better theoretical models in your area * may influence public policy * may change the way people do their jobs in a particular field, or may change the way people live. Are there other contributions your research will make? If so, describe them in detail. Look at the following example: In the economic example of micro-enterprises in rural communities, the researcher might argue that the research will: * provide an understanding of the economic impact of micro-enterprises. * support the government's plans for start-up loans to micro-enterprises. * demonstrate the usefulness of micro-enterprises as part of rural development, thereby contributing to the work of government and non-government rural development organizations. Detail regarding each of these three points should be added to produce a convincing argument as to the usefulness of the research. Explain why this topic is worth considering, or this question or series of questions is worth answering. Answer the following questions: why should your instructor let you select this topic? What do you hope to learn from it? What will this new knowledge add to the field of knowledge that already exists on this topic? What new perspective will you bring to the topic? What use might your final research paper have for others in this field or in the general public? Who might you decide to share your findings with once the project is complete? SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY 1. This section describes the contributions of the study to knowledge. This could be in the form of new knowledge in the field, a check on the major findings of other studies, a check on the validity of findings in a different
population, a check on trends over time and a check on the other findings using different methodology. 2. It discusses the importance of the study to the society, the country, the government, the community, the institution, the agency concerned, the curriculum planners and developers and to the researchers. 3. It expounds on the study’s probable impact to education, science, technology, on-going researchers and etc. 5) OBJECTIVES OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL Formulating aims and objectives for your research studies helps sculpt and guide your work after you've decided on a topic. While your aims give your research thematic and theoretic direction, objectives give concrete steps on how to manifest those concepts and theories. A strong topic begins with an area you're interested in researching, then focuses on a need, problem or unexplored issue in that area, usually from a particular perspective or approach. Aims A research proposal's aims are statements that broadly point out what you hope to accomplish and your desired outcomes from the research. Aims focus on long-term intended outcomes -- your aspirations in reference to the research. They're typically not numbered in a research proposal. Strong research proposals set out only two to three aims. Each aim may have several objectives associated with it. Objectives Objectives lay out how you plan to accomplish your aims. While aims are broad in nature, objectives are focused and practical. They tend to pinpoint your research's more immediate effects. They include a list of practical steps and tasks you're going to take to meet your aims. Objectives are typically numbered, so each one stands alone. Each objective must have a concrete method set out. If you're having trouble developing this, writing out a research time-line before defining your objectives may help What They Should Do Both aims and objectives should be brief and concise. They must be interrelated. Each aim should have one or more objectives describing how that aim should be met. Aims and objectives should both be realistic goals and methods with respect to what resources you have available and the scope of research. Don't choose something too broad, for instance, or that would take much more research time than you have. Aims and objectives also let your advisers know how you intend to approach a given subject and how you plan
to get access to subjects, goods and services, samplings and other resources. They also provide plans for dealing with ethical or practical problems you may encounter. Things to Avoid When you're writing your aims and objectives, don't make them too broad or vague. Aims are more general than objectives, they shouldn't be over-optimistic or unrealistic about what you want to achieve. They shouldn't repeat each other or be simple lists of items related to your research. Stay way from focusing content on your research site or job. Stick to the specific aims and objectives of your actual research study. Check that your aims and objectives contain methods that can sustain what you hope to find. If they don't match, rethink the methods or aims and objectives of your research 6) METHODOLOGY OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL You are now ready to plan and compose the second piece of your proposal, the methodology section. In it you will describe what you plan to accomplish, why you want to do it and how you are going to do it. This process is very important; to a reviewer, your research investigation is only as a good as your proposal methodology. Generally, a research proposal should contain all the key elements involved in the research process and include sufficient information for the readers to evaluate the proposed study. An ill- conceived proposal dooms the project, even if it somehow is approved, because your methods are not carefully thought out in advance. The methodology section should describe how each specific objective will be achieved, with enough detail to enable an independent and informed assessment of the proposal. This section should include:  Restatement of research tasks: hypothesis or research questions;  Study population and sampling: description of study areas, populations and the procedures for their selection;  Data collection: description of the tools and methods used to collect information, and identification of variables;  Data analysis: description of data processing and analyzing procedures;  Laboratory procedures: descriptions of standardized procedures and protocols and new or unique procedures; and  The specific tools that will be used to study each research objective. First, review the two types of research, qualitative and quantitative, in order to make a decision about your own methodology's procedures pathway. In a series of steps in a planning guide, you will outline your methodology section and craft your proposal.
METHODOLOGY The goal of the research design and methods section is to: − Minimize the number of assumptions reviewers must make about your project. − Show that you are using scientifically sound approaches � Make sure that the study you describe corresponds with the specific objectives you listed earlier in the proposal. � Make sure that the underlying science and methods behind your plan are sound, feasible and complete as possible. � Give details of: − The design of the study (e.g. descriptive, comparative, longitudinal, case-control, quasi-experimental, randomised) and explain why that design was chosen. − Data collection procedures (how will the data be collected, who will collect the data, what procedures will be used?). − The procedures for training of researchers or interviewers. − Access to specialised facilities or equipment where applicable. − Procedures for handling of participants and confidentiality issues. − Procedures and approval for working with animals where applicable. − Possible hazards to research personnel and study participants and procedures to prevent dangerous situations. � Briefly discuss the limitations of the proposed study, and alternative methodologies for carrying out the proposed research plan if these limitations impact negatively on your ability to conduct the study as planned. � Give a timeline for tasks to be completed during the project period. The timeline must accurately reflect what was planned for in the study and be consistent with the requested budget. METHODOLOGY 1. This discusses the research locale, research design, population sampling or respondents of the study, research instrument, and the statistical treatment of data. 1.1 Research Locale 1.1 This discusses the place or setting of the study. It describes in brief the place where the study is conducted. Only important
features which have the bearing on the present study are included. 1.2 Shows the target population. 1.2 Research Design 1.2.1 This describes the research mode whether it is true experimental or quasi-experimental design, descriptive or survey research, historical research, qualitative research, ethnographic and etc. 1.3 Population Sampling or Respondents of the Study 1.3.1 This describes the target population and the sample frame. 1.3.2 It specifies the sampling technique used and how the sample size is determined. 1.4 Research Instrument 1.4.1 This explains the specific type of research instrument used such as questionnaire, checklist, questionnaire-checklists, structured interview, teacher–made test, standardized instrument which are adopted or borrowed with permission from the author or from other sources. 1.4.2 The parts of the instruments should be explained and what bits of information are derived. 1.4.3 The establishment of validity and reliability should be explained and only experts should be chosen to validate such instrument. Specific and appropriate statistical test used should be given and the computed values derived. Interpretation should be included in the discussions. 1.5 Statistical Treatment of Data 1.4.4 Explain how each statistical test is used in the treatment of data. 1.4.5 If the research instrument included options which are scaled, explain how each scale is given the weight, its interval and class limits.
7) FUNDING FOR PROPOSAL The Proposal Process Proposal writing is just one step in the grantseeking process, and it is not the most important step. Far more time should be spent developing the program or project and researching and cultivating donors than on the actual preparation of a proposal. As Jane Geever, author of The Foundation Center's Guide to Proposal Writing, states, the proposal does not stand alone. It must be part of a process of planning and of research on, outreach to, and cultivation of potential foundation and corporate donors. How to start: Commit your ideas to paper. Thoroughly describe your program. Create a concept paper. State the goals and objectives of your program. Construct a timeline. Estimate costs for staff, materials, and equipment. Plan for an evaluation of your program. Write job descriptions for program staff. Components of a Proposal: Executive Summary Statement of Need Project Description Budget Organizational Information Conclusion
Here we focus on the proposal submission process. Initial Approach An increasing number of funders prefer brief letters of inquiry concerning the suitability of a match between your proposal and their interests before you submit a full proposal, or even instead of one. A letter of inquiry should touch on all the elements that would eventually be part of a proposal; it should be no more than two pages long, and should indicate what the next step will be (for example, that you will follow up with a phone call within two weeks). The objective of a letter of inquiry is to get the funder to invite you to submit a proposal. For more information on letters of inquiry, see our FAQs What should be included in a letter of inquiry? and Where can I find examples of letters of inquiry? A limited number of foundations and corporations supply detailed instructions on what a proposal to them should include. If they do provide guidelines, they expect them to be followed. Some groups of funders such as regional associations of grantmakers and the National Network of Grantmakers are now creating and adopting common grant application forms that grantseekers may use when submitting proposals to them. While it is unlikely that you will send the same exact proposal to every foundation on your list, you will need to create a "master proposal" for your project or organization that you will customize for each prospective funder. Ground Rules for Preparing a Master Proposal  Keep it readable and concise. Use large, easy-to-read, dark type. Don't use fancy bindings; use paper clips and staples instead.  Number the pages. If the proposal is longer than ten pages (most should not be), provide a table of contents.  Use charts and statistics only where appropriate, since they tend to disrupt the flow of the narrative. Put footnotes on the same page, not at the end of the document.  Add a limited number of attachments, press releases, news clippings, resumes, etc. Keep appendices to a minimum. Writing Style  Use the active rather than the passive voice.  Do not use jargon or acronyms unless absolutely necessary, and then provide explanations.  Use simple sentences; keep paragraphs short; employ headings and subheadings.  Write your proposal from the point of view of those who will benefit from it. Talk about their needs and how your program will help.
Application Procedures Each funder establishes its own application deadlines. Deadlines are serious and should be respected; otherwise you might lose out on that basis alone. Most large funders have boards that meet quarterly. Some staffed foundations may have monthly deadlines. Many small or family foundations have boards that meet only once or twice a year. Some have no deadlines at all. Keep in mind that after a proposal is submitted there is often at least a period of several months before a decision is made on it. In that interim period foundation personnel are reading and evaluating all proposals received for that funding cycle. Also be aware that, once you are notified that you have been awarded a grant, there is usually a delay of several weeks before a check will be issued to your organization. Consider submitting your proposal six to nine months before your program is to be implemented. This allows you time to apply elsewhere if you are not successful. The same proposal should not be submitted to all funders, as many have different interests, priorities, and guidelines. Your proposal must show how your project fits a funder's pattern of giving. In certain circumstances, you may be sending the same proposal to several funders but with different cover letters. In those cases, let the funders know who else is considering your proposal. Always address your cover letter to an individual. Never start out with "Dear Sir" or "To Whom It May Concern." Verify the spelling of names, titles, and addresses. You can often get that information by using the Foundation Finder. If not, try to get the information over the phone by calling the foundation directly. A few funders accept proposals via fax or the Internet, but these are the exceptions. Do not fax or e-mail your proposal without first ascertaining from the funder that this is acceptable. Be sure to include all attachments requested by the funder. The most commonly requested attachments are:  a copy of your organization's 501(c)(3) determination letter from the IRS;  a copy of your organization's "not a private foundation" letter from the IRS;  a list of your organization's trustees and their professional affiliations;  a copy of your organization's budget and most recent audit;  a brochure describing your agency. 8) DIFFERENT FUNDING AGENCIES Various national and international agencies have identified priority areas for funding of collaborative research. The proposals submitted to the funding agencies need to be original and address the research areas prioritized by an agency. There are certain
important considerations which need to be followed by a researcher for successful international collaboration viz. presentation of the proposal, justification for foreign collaboration, technology transfer, capacity building, ethical and IPR issues, transfer of human biological material, etc. As a condition of grant support, institutions in receipt of funds are responsible for ensuring that the investigator fully complies with the requirements for the storage, use and transfer of biological materials and any additional provisions to safeguard security that are specified in regulations. Parent institutions of the investigators are also required to accept responsibility for the Management, monitoring and control of research work funded by international grants and for ensuring that permanent/temporary staff and students employed to undertake such work receive appropriate training. Some of the leading Indian funding agencies are as mentioned below. 3.1 Department of Biotechnology (DBT) The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology in 1986 gave a new impetus to the development of the field of modern biology and biotechnology in India. Since its inception, the Department has promoted and accelerated the pace of development of biotechnology in the country through several R&D projects, demonstrations and creation of infrastructural facilities, a clearly visible impact in this field has been seen. The Department has made significant achievements in the growth and application of biotechnology in the broad areas of agriculture, health care, animal sciences, environment and industry. 3.2 Department of Science and Technology (DST) The Department of Science & Technology (DST) was established in May 1971, with the objective of promoting new areas of Science & Technology and to play the role of a nodal department for organizing, coordinating and promoting S&T activities in the country under the Ministry of Science & Technology. The Department has major responsibilities for specific projects and programmers such as formulation of policies relating to science and technology; matters relating to Scientific Advisory Committee of Cabinet (SACC) and promotion of new areas of S&T with special emphasis on emerging areas; coordination and integration of areas of Science and Technology having cross-sectoral linkages in which a number of institutions and departments that have interests and capabilities. 3.3 Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) The Defense Research and Development Organization under the Ministry of Defense is Dedicatedly engaged in the formulation and execution of programmers of scientific research, design and development, testing and evaluation leading to induction of state-of- art weapons and equipment which would compete and compare favorably with its contemporary systems available elsewhere in the world.
3.4 Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) The major functions of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research include promotion, guidance and coordination of scientific and industrial research in India; establishment or development of and assistance to existing special institutions or departments for scientific study of problems affecting particular industries and trades; 3.5 Indian National Science Academy (INSA) The Indian National Science Academy encompasses promotion of science in India including its application to national welfare, safeguarding the interests of the scientists, establishing linkages with international bodies to foster collaboration and expressing considered opinion on national issues. 9) FRAMEWORK FOR PLANNING CONCEPTUAL/ THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK OF THE STUDY 1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK 1.1 The conceptual framework is the schematic diagram which shows the variables included in the study. 1.2 Arrows or line should be properly placed and connected between boxes to show the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. 1.3 All the independent and dependent variables should be clearly discussed and explained how these would influence the results of the study. 2. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK 2.1 The theoretical framework consists of theories, principles, generalizations and research findings which are closely related to the present study under investigation. It is in this framework where the present research problem understudy evolved. 2.2 Authors of these theories and principles should be cited. As much as possible research findings and theories should be correct.

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Research Methodology Module-02

  • 1. Module 2 RM Developing a research proposal 1) FORMAT OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL SUGGESTED FORMAT FOR THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL The format for the research proposal should consist of the following: 1. Proposed Title of the Research Proposal/Project The title of the Research Proposal must reflect clearly and succinctly the area of the research that is to be embarked on. In other words a title should describe the content of the thesis accurately and concisely. 2. The Introduction to the Research Proposal/Project The Introduction must consist of a general description of the background of the research, associated questions and the problems involved in it. 3. Objectives of the Research Proposal/Project The necessary context should be set for the research objectives to ensure that its importance, significance and essential nature is clearly demonstrated in the proposal. 4. The Problem Statement The problems involved in the research must be clearly defined as it will help to present the rationale of the entire study. 5. Literature Review This part of the proposal will contain an analysis of other associated research works or studies pertinent to the proposed research area and it will help toward the formation of the research methodology. 6. Research Methodology This will require an understanding of alternative research methods known and the approach to be adopted in this particular study. 7. The expected Work Schedule/Timeline The schedule or timeline for the proposed completion of the research should be listed to enable an understanding of the allocation of resources to be made.
  • 2. 8. The expected Research/Project Outcome or Contribution of the same This would involve a discussion on the expected research findings based on existing literature and information in the area. 9. References Any referencing system used must be consistent and contain names of authors, books and journals. The volume, issue and page numbers with the publication year must also be listed. 2) INDIVIDUAL RESEARCH PROPOSAL Proposing an independent study is an indication that you have reached the level where you are capable of taking ownership of your personal and educational development. Independent study is an opportunity to explore a specific topic that interests you in more depth. Once you identify a topic of interest, do your research so you can convince the decision-makers that they should approve your application. Check to see whether your university or department has a form you can download for an independent study project, or if writing a proposal is part of the independent study Step 1 State the purpose of your independent study. Also indicate the dates for the study and how much credit you are requesting for the independent study. Step 2 Identify the topic you are going to study. Write a short paragraph outlining the area you are interested in. If your topic involves off-campus research, such as interviews or visiting museums for research, be sure to include that information. Step 3 Write your proposal for an independent study in the first person. Use small words when possible. When you change ideas, change paragraphs. The committee or head of the department wants to know that you have considered all aspects of your independent study. Step 4 Maintain an academic tone at all times. You want to sound objective and lay your ideas out in a logical way. Make it flow from one section to another.
  • 3. Step 5 Explain why your topic or area of study is relevant. Try to draw your independent study into the bigger-picture of what you want to achieve as a student. Look at it as "something" more you want to do. Step 6 Identify your research methodology. Let the committee know if you are going to use a qualitative or a quantitative paradigm. You may also want to add a note about why you decided to use your chosen methodology. Step 7 Present a reading list and indicate a working bibliography. List books and journal articles you have already read on the topic of your independent study, and indicate what you need to read for a better understanding. Step 8 Establish how your independent study will be evaluated. Independent studies generally require a major essay, so be sure to include at least one written report as well as other assessments, such as presenting a paper at a conference 3) INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH PROPOSAL The Nature and Purpose of Institutional Research Institutional research is research conducted within an institution of higher education to provide information which supports institutional planning, policy formation and decision making. The institution may be a single campus, a multi-campus system, a state or provincial system or an even larger grouping of colleges and universities. Although the activity of institutional research is commonly associated with the individual campus, it also is carried out within higher education systems to serve the governance responsibilities which reside there. Institutional research can be distinguished from research on postsecondary education which has as its purpose the advancement of knowledge about and practice in postsecondary education generally. The subject of institutional research is the individual college, university, or system. While institutional research can involve data and analyses which contribute to wider knowledge about how colleges and individuals function, this type of result generally is not sought for its own sake.
  • 4. Activities of institutional research are frequently undertaken in association with specific planning, policy, or decision situations. Information to answer specific questions is desired. How many sections of a specific course should be offered? By what amount should tuition rates be increased to produce a target amount of tuition income? Is attrition a problem at our institution? Are our faculty salaries competitive with those paid by peer institutions? Are the outcomes of our degree programs what the stated purposes of the programs suggest they should be? Institutional research designed to answer such questions is a form of applied research The Place of Institutional Research in the Organization Institutional Research is carried out in the individual academic and administrative units of the college or university in support of the information needs, planning and decision- making responsibilities which reside at the unit level. At some colleges and universities, a conscious decision had been made that each unit in central administration will be responsible for institutional research relating to the activities of that unit. There may be no formally identified offices for institutional research in these institutions, but this does not mean that the activity is absent. Rather, it is dispersed and carried out by persons who may have principal responsibilities other than institutional research. Economy and in- depth knowledge of the matters studied may be points in favor of such arrangements. Problems of dispersed institutional research are duplication, a lack of research expertise in some or many institutional domains, an inability to deal with issues which cross organizational boundaries, and an absence of an institution-wide view in the research activities. Characteristics of Effective Institutional Research The first is that of purpose. Assumptions are involved in institutional research Communication of the findings of institutional research takes a variety of forms. Oral reports, in person or on the phone, are made to answer generally straightforward questions Personal computers, local area networks, electronic mail, desk-top publishing, and advanced graphics capabilities have added options for the communication of results of institutional research A consideration of the content of an institutional research report may illuminate the nature of the activity and the manner in which it aids planning, policy formulation and decision making
  • 5. While written reports are important products of institutional research, it is often desirable to attempt to ensure that research undertaken is relevant and research completed is useful Basic Tools of Institutional Research First, the conversion of data in the institution's operational data processing systems into management information frequently is a responsibility of the office of institutional research Computer technology has enabled the development of such management information systems The decision support system (DSS) constitutes another method of carrying out institutional research A relative of the decision support system is the executive support system (ESS), also referred to as the executive information system (EIS). Modeling is also employed in institutional analysis. It involves the specification of mathematical relationships among variables of institutional operation. Another technique of institutional research is comparative analysis Contributions of Institutional Research to Planning, Decision Making, and Policy Formulation The range and variety of problems, questions and issues which arise in higher education and for which institutional research is relevant defy categorization or enumeration. Any administrator and any committee may seek institutional research to inform plans, decisions and actions. In many cases the researcher can aid in specifying the information to be brought to bear on a problem or issue and, for this reason, should be included at an early stage. The breadth of the potential applicability of institutional research is indicated by the following illustrations. 4) SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL This section, often referred to as the "rationale" is crucial, because it is one place in which the researcher tries to convince an audience that the research is worth doing. It should establish why the audience should want to read on. It could also persuade someone of why he or she would want to support, or fund, a research project. One way to do this is by describing how the results may be used.
  • 6. Overall, this section answers several questions. Why is this work important? What are the implications of doing it? How does it link to other knowledge? How does it stand to inform policy making? Why is it important to our understanding of the world? What new perspective will you bring to the topic? What use might your final research paper have for others in this field or in the general public? Who might you decide to share your findings with once the project is complete? Think about how your research: *may resolve theoretical questions in your area * may develop better theoretical models in your area * may influence public policy * may change the way people do their jobs in a particular field, or may change the way people live. Are there other contributions your research will make? If so, describe them in detail. Look at the following example: In the economic example of micro-enterprises in rural communities, the researcher might argue that the research will: * provide an understanding of the economic impact of micro-enterprises. * support the government's plans for start-up loans to micro-enterprises. * demonstrate the usefulness of micro-enterprises as part of rural development, thereby contributing to the work of government and non-government rural development organizations. Detail regarding each of these three points should be added to produce a convincing argument as to the usefulness of the research. Explain why this topic is worth considering, or this question or series of questions is worth answering. Answer the following questions: why should your instructor let you select this topic? What do you hope to learn from it? What will this new knowledge add to the field of knowledge that already exists on this topic? What new perspective will you bring to the topic? What use might your final research paper have for others in this field or in the general public? Who might you decide to share your findings with once the project is complete? SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY 1. This section describes the contributions of the study to knowledge. This could be in the form of new knowledge in the field, a check on the major findings of other studies, a check on the validity of findings in a different
  • 7. population, a check on trends over time and a check on the other findings using different methodology. 2. It discusses the importance of the study to the society, the country, the government, the community, the institution, the agency concerned, the curriculum planners and developers and to the researchers. 3. It expounds on the study’s probable impact to education, science, technology, on-going researchers and etc. 5) OBJECTIVES OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL Formulating aims and objectives for your research studies helps sculpt and guide your work after you've decided on a topic. While your aims give your research thematic and theoretic direction, objectives give concrete steps on how to manifest those concepts and theories. A strong topic begins with an area you're interested in researching, then focuses on a need, problem or unexplored issue in that area, usually from a particular perspective or approach. Aims A research proposal's aims are statements that broadly point out what you hope to accomplish and your desired outcomes from the research. Aims focus on long-term intended outcomes -- your aspirations in reference to the research. They're typically not numbered in a research proposal. Strong research proposals set out only two to three aims. Each aim may have several objectives associated with it. Objectives Objectives lay out how you plan to accomplish your aims. While aims are broad in nature, objectives are focused and practical. They tend to pinpoint your research's more immediate effects. They include a list of practical steps and tasks you're going to take to meet your aims. Objectives are typically numbered, so each one stands alone. Each objective must have a concrete method set out. If you're having trouble developing this, writing out a research time-line before defining your objectives may help What They Should Do Both aims and objectives should be brief and concise. They must be interrelated. Each aim should have one or more objectives describing how that aim should be met. Aims and objectives should both be realistic goals and methods with respect to what resources you have available and the scope of research. Don't choose something too broad, for instance, or that would take much more research time than you have. Aims and objectives also let your advisers know how you intend to approach a given subject and how you plan
  • 8. to get access to subjects, goods and services, samplings and other resources. They also provide plans for dealing with ethical or practical problems you may encounter. Things to Avoid When you're writing your aims and objectives, don't make them too broad or vague. Aims are more general than objectives, they shouldn't be over-optimistic or unrealistic about what you want to achieve. They shouldn't repeat each other or be simple lists of items related to your research. Stay way from focusing content on your research site or job. Stick to the specific aims and objectives of your actual research study. Check that your aims and objectives contain methods that can sustain what you hope to find. If they don't match, rethink the methods or aims and objectives of your research 6) METHODOLOGY OF RESEARCH PROPOSAL You are now ready to plan and compose the second piece of your proposal, the methodology section. In it you will describe what you plan to accomplish, why you want to do it and how you are going to do it. This process is very important; to a reviewer, your research investigation is only as a good as your proposal methodology. Generally, a research proposal should contain all the key elements involved in the research process and include sufficient information for the readers to evaluate the proposed study. An ill- conceived proposal dooms the project, even if it somehow is approved, because your methods are not carefully thought out in advance. The methodology section should describe how each specific objective will be achieved, with enough detail to enable an independent and informed assessment of the proposal. This section should include:  Restatement of research tasks: hypothesis or research questions;  Study population and sampling: description of study areas, populations and the procedures for their selection;  Data collection: description of the tools and methods used to collect information, and identification of variables;  Data analysis: description of data processing and analyzing procedures;  Laboratory procedures: descriptions of standardized procedures and protocols and new or unique procedures; and  The specific tools that will be used to study each research objective. First, review the two types of research, qualitative and quantitative, in order to make a decision about your own methodology's procedures pathway. In a series of steps in a planning guide, you will outline your methodology section and craft your proposal.
  • 9. METHODOLOGY The goal of the research design and methods section is to: − Minimize the number of assumptions reviewers must make about your project. − Show that you are using scientifically sound approaches � Make sure that the study you describe corresponds with the specific objectives you listed earlier in the proposal. � Make sure that the underlying science and methods behind your plan are sound, feasible and complete as possible. � Give details of: − The design of the study (e.g. descriptive, comparative, longitudinal, case-control, quasi-experimental, randomised) and explain why that design was chosen. − Data collection procedures (how will the data be collected, who will collect the data, what procedures will be used?). − The procedures for training of researchers or interviewers. − Access to specialised facilities or equipment where applicable. − Procedures for handling of participants and confidentiality issues. − Procedures and approval for working with animals where applicable. − Possible hazards to research personnel and study participants and procedures to prevent dangerous situations. � Briefly discuss the limitations of the proposed study, and alternative methodologies for carrying out the proposed research plan if these limitations impact negatively on your ability to conduct the study as planned. � Give a timeline for tasks to be completed during the project period. The timeline must accurately reflect what was planned for in the study and be consistent with the requested budget. METHODOLOGY 1. This discusses the research locale, research design, population sampling or respondents of the study, research instrument, and the statistical treatment of data. 1.1 Research Locale 1.1 This discusses the place or setting of the study. It describes in brief the place where the study is conducted. Only important
  • 10. features which have the bearing on the present study are included. 1.2 Shows the target population. 1.2 Research Design 1.2.1 This describes the research mode whether it is true experimental or quasi-experimental design, descriptive or survey research, historical research, qualitative research, ethnographic and etc. 1.3 Population Sampling or Respondents of the Study 1.3.1 This describes the target population and the sample frame. 1.3.2 It specifies the sampling technique used and how the sample size is determined. 1.4 Research Instrument 1.4.1 This explains the specific type of research instrument used such as questionnaire, checklist, questionnaire-checklists, structured interview, teacher–made test, standardized instrument which are adopted or borrowed with permission from the author or from other sources. 1.4.2 The parts of the instruments should be explained and what bits of information are derived. 1.4.3 The establishment of validity and reliability should be explained and only experts should be chosen to validate such instrument. Specific and appropriate statistical test used should be given and the computed values derived. Interpretation should be included in the discussions. 1.5 Statistical Treatment of Data 1.4.4 Explain how each statistical test is used in the treatment of data. 1.4.5 If the research instrument included options which are scaled, explain how each scale is given the weight, its interval and class limits.
  • 11. 7) FUNDING FOR PROPOSAL The Proposal Process Proposal writing is just one step in the grantseeking process, and it is not the most important step. Far more time should be spent developing the program or project and researching and cultivating donors than on the actual preparation of a proposal. As Jane Geever, author of The Foundation Center's Guide to Proposal Writing, states, the proposal does not stand alone. It must be part of a process of planning and of research on, outreach to, and cultivation of potential foundation and corporate donors. How to start: Commit your ideas to paper. Thoroughly describe your program. Create a concept paper. State the goals and objectives of your program. Construct a timeline. Estimate costs for staff, materials, and equipment. Plan for an evaluation of your program. Write job descriptions for program staff. Components of a Proposal: Executive Summary Statement of Need Project Description Budget Organizational Information Conclusion
  • 12. Here we focus on the proposal submission process. Initial Approach An increasing number of funders prefer brief letters of inquiry concerning the suitability of a match between your proposal and their interests before you submit a full proposal, or even instead of one. A letter of inquiry should touch on all the elements that would eventually be part of a proposal; it should be no more than two pages long, and should indicate what the next step will be (for example, that you will follow up with a phone call within two weeks). The objective of a letter of inquiry is to get the funder to invite you to submit a proposal. For more information on letters of inquiry, see our FAQs What should be included in a letter of inquiry? and Where can I find examples of letters of inquiry? A limited number of foundations and corporations supply detailed instructions on what a proposal to them should include. If they do provide guidelines, they expect them to be followed. Some groups of funders such as regional associations of grantmakers and the National Network of Grantmakers are now creating and adopting common grant application forms that grantseekers may use when submitting proposals to them. While it is unlikely that you will send the same exact proposal to every foundation on your list, you will need to create a "master proposal" for your project or organization that you will customize for each prospective funder. Ground Rules for Preparing a Master Proposal  Keep it readable and concise. Use large, easy-to-read, dark type. Don't use fancy bindings; use paper clips and staples instead.  Number the pages. If the proposal is longer than ten pages (most should not be), provide a table of contents.  Use charts and statistics only where appropriate, since they tend to disrupt the flow of the narrative. Put footnotes on the same page, not at the end of the document.  Add a limited number of attachments, press releases, news clippings, resumes, etc. Keep appendices to a minimum. Writing Style  Use the active rather than the passive voice.  Do not use jargon or acronyms unless absolutely necessary, and then provide explanations.  Use simple sentences; keep paragraphs short; employ headings and subheadings.  Write your proposal from the point of view of those who will benefit from it. Talk about their needs and how your program will help.
  • 13. Application Procedures Each funder establishes its own application deadlines. Deadlines are serious and should be respected; otherwise you might lose out on that basis alone. Most large funders have boards that meet quarterly. Some staffed foundations may have monthly deadlines. Many small or family foundations have boards that meet only once or twice a year. Some have no deadlines at all. Keep in mind that after a proposal is submitted there is often at least a period of several months before a decision is made on it. In that interim period foundation personnel are reading and evaluating all proposals received for that funding cycle. Also be aware that, once you are notified that you have been awarded a grant, there is usually a delay of several weeks before a check will be issued to your organization. Consider submitting your proposal six to nine months before your program is to be implemented. This allows you time to apply elsewhere if you are not successful. The same proposal should not be submitted to all funders, as many have different interests, priorities, and guidelines. Your proposal must show how your project fits a funder's pattern of giving. In certain circumstances, you may be sending the same proposal to several funders but with different cover letters. In those cases, let the funders know who else is considering your proposal. Always address your cover letter to an individual. Never start out with "Dear Sir" or "To Whom It May Concern." Verify the spelling of names, titles, and addresses. You can often get that information by using the Foundation Finder. If not, try to get the information over the phone by calling the foundation directly. A few funders accept proposals via fax or the Internet, but these are the exceptions. Do not fax or e-mail your proposal without first ascertaining from the funder that this is acceptable. Be sure to include all attachments requested by the funder. The most commonly requested attachments are:  a copy of your organization's 501(c)(3) determination letter from the IRS;  a copy of your organization's "not a private foundation" letter from the IRS;  a list of your organization's trustees and their professional affiliations;  a copy of your organization's budget and most recent audit;  a brochure describing your agency. 8) DIFFERENT FUNDING AGENCIES Various national and international agencies have identified priority areas for funding of collaborative research. The proposals submitted to the funding agencies need to be original and address the research areas prioritized by an agency. There are certain
  • 14. important considerations which need to be followed by a researcher for successful international collaboration viz. presentation of the proposal, justification for foreign collaboration, technology transfer, capacity building, ethical and IPR issues, transfer of human biological material, etc. As a condition of grant support, institutions in receipt of funds are responsible for ensuring that the investigator fully complies with the requirements for the storage, use and transfer of biological materials and any additional provisions to safeguard security that are specified in regulations. Parent institutions of the investigators are also required to accept responsibility for the Management, monitoring and control of research work funded by international grants and for ensuring that permanent/temporary staff and students employed to undertake such work receive appropriate training. Some of the leading Indian funding agencies are as mentioned below. 3.1 Department of Biotechnology (DBT) The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology in 1986 gave a new impetus to the development of the field of modern biology and biotechnology in India. Since its inception, the Department has promoted and accelerated the pace of development of biotechnology in the country through several R&D projects, demonstrations and creation of infrastructural facilities, a clearly visible impact in this field has been seen. The Department has made significant achievements in the growth and application of biotechnology in the broad areas of agriculture, health care, animal sciences, environment and industry. 3.2 Department of Science and Technology (DST) The Department of Science & Technology (DST) was established in May 1971, with the objective of promoting new areas of Science & Technology and to play the role of a nodal department for organizing, coordinating and promoting S&T activities in the country under the Ministry of Science & Technology. The Department has major responsibilities for specific projects and programmers such as formulation of policies relating to science and technology; matters relating to Scientific Advisory Committee of Cabinet (SACC) and promotion of new areas of S&T with special emphasis on emerging areas; coordination and integration of areas of Science and Technology having cross-sectoral linkages in which a number of institutions and departments that have interests and capabilities. 3.3 Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) The Defense Research and Development Organization under the Ministry of Defense is Dedicatedly engaged in the formulation and execution of programmers of scientific research, design and development, testing and evaluation leading to induction of state-of- art weapons and equipment which would compete and compare favorably with its contemporary systems available elsewhere in the world.
  • 15. 3.4 Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) The major functions of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research include promotion, guidance and coordination of scientific and industrial research in India; establishment or development of and assistance to existing special institutions or departments for scientific study of problems affecting particular industries and trades; 3.5 Indian National Science Academy (INSA) The Indian National Science Academy encompasses promotion of science in India including its application to national welfare, safeguarding the interests of the scientists, establishing linkages with international bodies to foster collaboration and expressing considered opinion on national issues. 9) FRAMEWORK FOR PLANNING CONCEPTUAL/ THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK OF THE STUDY 1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK 1.1 The conceptual framework is the schematic diagram which shows the variables included in the study. 1.2 Arrows or line should be properly placed and connected between boxes to show the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. 1.3 All the independent and dependent variables should be clearly discussed and explained how these would influence the results of the study. 2. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK 2.1 The theoretical framework consists of theories, principles, generalizations and research findings which are closely related to the present study under investigation. It is in this framework where the present research problem understudy evolved. 2.2 Authors of these theories and principles should be cited. As much as possible research findings and theories should be correct.