ASSIGNMENT TITLE: Research Proposal Planning Dossier & Check-In
Course Alignment: Research Methods / Capstone Planning
Estimated Effort: 8–10 hours
Scenario
Develop a structured planning document for your capstone or research project and submit
it for formative feedback.
Learning Outcomes
• Craft a problem statement, purpose, and aligned research questions.
• Select an appropriate framework and methodology.
• Create a realistic timeline, risk register, and data management plan.
Deliverables
A. Proposal Overview (1–2 pages): problem, purpose, significance, RQs/hypotheses.
B. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework (½–1 page): model(s) and rationale.
C. Methods Plan (1–2 pages): design, participants/data sources, instruments/measures,
procedures, analysis approach.
D. Ethics & Feasibility (½–1 page): access, consent/IRB needs, confidentiality.
E. Project Timeline (Gantt-style table with milestones).
F. Risk Register (top 5 risks + mitigations).
G. Reviewer Questions (5–7 targeted questions for instructor/mentor).
Detailed Task Requirements
• Ensure golden thread alignment (problem → purpose → RQs → methods).
• Define inclusion/exclusion criteria and sampling strategy.
• Outline analysis approach (e.g., thematic analysis; regression/ANOVA).
• Data management: storage, naming, retention, and reproducibility.
Formatting & Submission
• APA; 3–5 pages plus timeline table.