Proposal

DH450 : The Class : The Proposal : Project : Proposal

The Pilot and the Proposal

The importance of a preliminary trial, or pilot study, cannot be overemphasized. Conducting a miniature version of the study will help the researcher check the feasibility of the study, and identify problems.

The pilot study should use the same methodology, but on a smaller scale.

The process should be the same for the pilot as for the final study from subject selection to data analysis.

Modifications of the original plan are almost always made as a result of the pilot study. Pilot testing results in improved quality of research.

Assignment

Write a proposal for your research study. Be sure it contains:

Title
Table of Contents
Abstract
Introduction

to include:

Statement of problem, significance, purpose of study
Operational definitions, hypothesis
Review of the Literature
Theory application

Methods, Design

Sample description and selection, inclusion criteria, size, recruitment
Method of assignment to groups
Controls
Blinding
Calibration
Outcomes variable defined
Data Collection Instruments
Data analysis plan

Forms for necessary permissions, human subjects use approval application, consent form
Time-line (see example in module 3 Program planning)
Budget (see example in module 3 Program planning)
Plan for grant submission - funding agency
Plan for publication, dissemination

When you have completed the proposal, e-mail it as an attachment to your instructor.

S-Satisfactory, no modification, or only minor changes will strengthen the proposal
M-Marginal, Revision is needed before review
U-Unsatisfactory, Does not meet minimal standards.
N-Does not apply to the proposal

Proposal Checklist	S	M	U	N
Title Page
Does the title of the proposal accurately represent the project?
Abstract
Is the abstract within the 250-300 word limit
Does the abstract include the purpose?
The research design?
The statistical analysis plan?
Introduction
Is the statement of the problem clearly stated?
Is the significance clearly stated?
Is it clear how the project will advance knowledge or improve health?
Are independent and dependent variables operationally defined?
Is the hypotheses/question stated in observable, measurable terms?
Does the hypothesis clearly predict a relationship between variables?
Is the hypothesis based on a sound theoretical framework?

Review of the Literature
Is the background to the proposal presented?
Does the lit review critically evaluate and synthesize existing knowledge?
Are gaps in knowledge that this study will address pointed out?
Provide basis of support for the hypothesis or research question?
Does it document the need for the study?
Is the review free from misinterpretation of information?
Is the literature review logically developed?

Research Design, Methods, Data Analysis
Is design appropriate to study the question?
Does design control for extraneous variables/threats to validity?
Is the sample representative of the population of interest?
Is the sample size adequate?
Is description of how the sample will be selected clearly stated?
Is the sampling procedure appropriate? (no sampling error, bias?)
Are procedures described in detail to allow for replication?
Is the assignment of subjects to groups/treatments appropriate?
Are the instruments used valid for the purpose?
Is the reliability of instruments/examiners accounted for?
Are assumptions clearly defined?
Are potential difficulties and limitations addressed?
Is the time line feasible?
Are variables identified for statistical analysis?

Budget
Does the budget include all expenses?
Is each entry justified and realistic?
Human Subjects
Does the plan for subject recruitment seem appropriate?
Does the informed consent form describe risks/procedures?
Are the risks reasonable in relation to the benefits?
Has IRB form been properly completed?

Comments

Once you have finished the lesson you should:

Go on to the Pilot Study
or
Go back to The Project Proposal

E-mail Tricia Moore at Tricia.Moore@nau.edu or call (520) 523-4012