BIO 550 Key Elements of a Research Proposal | Complete Solution

Key Elements of a Research Proposal

If you need a review of study design components, view the resources below.
 

Review the Key Elements page of the Research Methods Knowledge Base website at http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/guideelements.php

Key Elements of a Research Proposal

Background / purpose / rationale of the study

Literature review

Hypothesis/key questions 

Research objectives

Research methods

• Study design
• Statistical bias
• Procedures/timeline
  • Specific steps to be taken to complete the study
  • Instruments/data collection methods
  • Outcomes
• Proposed data analysis plan
  • Statistical analyses planned
  • Power analysis if appropriate
• Data safety monitoring if appropriate

Study participants

• Description of participates
• Recruitment of participates
• Confidentiality/human subject’s protection/legal-ethical issues (if appropriate)
• Sampling / rationale
  • Inclusion/exclusion criteria
  • Number of subjects

Statistical Analysis (only if applicable)

Anticipated Results and Potential Pitfalls

Implications for Practice

Adapted from “Key Elements of a Social Science Research Proposal: Statement of Research Plan” by the Office of Research at Northwestern University at www.research.northwestern.edu