Dissertation Research Proposal Guidelines

Purpose

1. Further demonstrate (beyond preliminary examination) capability for research
2. Define area of research interest
3. Describe research focus and significance, related literature, and design of study
4. Gain approval of proposal by doctoral committee
5. Learning theory
6. Instructional strategies

Suggested Assessment Guide

1. Title Page – The candidate has provided a title page in the prescribed format.
2. Membership of Examination Committee – The candidate has listed the membership of her/his doctoral committee to include the names and positions for major professor, School of Education representative, Graduate School representative, and adjunct faculty (2).
3. Outline for Dissertation Research Proposal – The candidate has provide an adequate and appropriate description for each of the following components of the research proposal in keeping with the research methodology be used:
   • Working title of the study
   • Focus and significance of the study (5-10 pages, double spaced)
   • Review of related research (10-20 pages, double spaced)
   • Design of study (5-10 pages, double spaced)
     • Methodology of study and rationale for this approach to focus of study
     • Data needed
     • Study participants
     • Data collection procedures (e.g., How? When? Where?)
     • Data analysis procedures
     • Strategies to ensure soundness of data, data analysis, and interpretation
     • Strategies for protection of human subjects
     • Anticipated time schedule for doing study

Note: The exact format of the research proposal will need to vary based on the focus and method of study in keeping with the conduct and tenets of original and creative research.