The proposal must include the following two sections (chapters):

I. Introduction: This section includes the following: (1) statement of the research problem (purpose of the proposed research project), (2) specific testable research hypotheses or questions which will be addressed in the proposed research, (3) a brief but comprehensive review of related literature which supports the importance/significance of the proposed research (4) a clear statement of the potential contribution of the proposed research to research knowledge. [4 to 6 pages]

II. Method: This section includes a detailed description of the research methods that will be employed. The following areas must be addressed: (1) population and sample including the sample selection criteria, (2) methods of data collection, (3) study variables (e.g., independent and dependent variables) specified in operational terms as well as measurement tools, (4) analytic methods to be used (make sure to identify the specific statistical procedures and discuss their appropriateness). [4 to 6 pages]

A list of references must be included at the end. You are to include at least 5 references from peer-reviewed research journals, using the “APA” style. You may use citations from trade journals, web sites, or other published or unpublished sources to supplement, but not replace, the minimum 5 peer-reviewed journal citations. 

The evaluation of your research proposal will be a rating (1 to 10) on all 8 components mentioned above as well as the reference page. To receive a “10” rating for that component that section must be: complete, clear, and correct (based on course material). The final rating component will be a 1 to 10 rating of your writing. Your written communication skills will be evaluated based on clarity, organization and being error-free (no typos or grammatical errors).