Research Process &

Research proposal

Dr. Rogis Baker

Learning Outcomes
1. Able to discuss/explain the research process – stages/steps
2. Able to explain the significance of a research proposal in
the research process
3. Able to describe the elements of a research proposal
Stages in the Research Process often follows a general pattern
(Zikmund, W. G., Babin, B.J., Carr, J.C., & Griffin, M., 2013, p. 59):
1. Defining the research objectives
2. Planning a research design
3. Planning a sample
4. Collecting the data
5. Analyzing the data
6. Formulating the conclusions and
preparing the report
Typical Stages in the Research Process (Ary, D., Jacobs, L. C., &
Sorensen, C., 2010, pp. 31-33)
1. Selecting a problem.
2. Reviewing the literature on
the problem.
3. Designing the research.
4. Collecting the data
5. Analyzing the data
6. Interpreting the findings
and stating conclusions
7. Reporting results/findings
The Seven-step process in the hypothetico-deductive
method (Sekaran, Y., Bougie, R., 2013, p. 23)
1. Identify a broad problem area.
2. Define the problem statement.
3. Develop hypotheses.
4. Determine measures.
5. Data collection.
6. Data analysis.
7. Interpretation of data.
The six steps of the research process according
to according to Creswell, J. W. (2014), p.21.
1. Identifying a research problem
2. Reviewing the literature
3. Specifying a purpose for research
4. Collecting data
5. Analyzing and interpreting the data
6. Reporting and evaluating research
Figure 1: The Research Process
Source: McMillan, J., Schumacher, S. (2014). p19.

Select a Conduct State

General Literature Conclusion/Generalization
Problem Review

Analyze and
Select Research Collect Interpret
Present
Problem, Question, Data Findings
Results
or Hypotheses
Subjects or
Participants

Measures Statistical Integrative

Decide Design and
Methodology Tables Diagrams
Procedures

Interventions
The Research Proposal
• The research proposal is a written statement of the research design.
• A research proposal is a document written by a researcher that describes in
details about the research proposed.
• It is like an outline of the entire research process that gives a reader a
summary of information on the project proposed.
• The phrasing of research proposals is very scientific.
• Research proposal is normally written in future tense and have different
points of emphasis.
• Like scientific articles, research proposals have sections describing the
research background, significance of study, methods and references
• The objective in writing research proposal is to describe what a researcher
wants to do, why it should be done, how it will be conducted and what is
the expected result?
The Significance of a Research Proposal
• The proposal as a planning tool – forces the researcher to think
critically about each stage of the research process.
• The objective in writing research proposal is to describe what a
researcher wants to do, why it should be done, how it will be
conducted and what is the expected result?
• The proposal as a contract – serves as the researcher’s/person’s
bid (attempt) to offer a specific service – describes the product
the research user will buy – to get fund for the research project/to
get approval for your project from your main supervisor or
supervisory committee.
Elements of A Research
Proposal
Elements of A Research Proposal
• The specific format and content of the elements may vary, depending
on requirements in the solicitation or announcement.
Elements/Format of a Research Proposal (general)
A research proposal should consist the following:
1. Introduction
a. Background of study
b. Problem statement
c. Research objectives
d. Research questions / hypotheses
e. Theoretical framework/Conceptual framework / Research framework
2. Literature Review
a. Previous research
b. Theories and models interlocking the study
c. Study Variables
3. Methodology
a. Research Methods
b. Population and sampling
c. Data collection methods
d. Data analysis /Plan for analyzing data and interpreting results
4. Significance of study / Expected results
5. Bibliography/References
6. Budget
7. Gantt chart on proposed plan of study/ Research milestone
8. CV of the researcher
 Elements of a Quantitative Research Proposal
1. Title
2. Abstract
3. Background and Setting
4. Problem Statement
5. Purpose of Study /Purpose Statement
Chapter 1
6. Research Questions/objectives/Hypotheses Introduction
7. Operational Definition of Terms
7.1 Conceptual

7.2 Operational
8. Significance of Study
Chapter 2
9. Scope and Limitation of the Study
10. Literature Review
Literature Review
11. Theoretical Framework

12. Methodology
12. 1 Research Design
12.2 Population and Sampling
12.3 Measurement
12.4 Data Collection Chapter 3
12.4.1 Pilot Test
12.4.2 Actual Data Collection
Methodology
12.5 Data Analysis
12.5.1 Exploratory Data Analysis
- Data Screening
- Validity and Reliability Analysis
- Descriptive Statistics
12.5.2 Hypothesis Testing (Confirmatory Data Analysis)
- Relationship analysis (Correlation, Regression)
- Difference / comparative analysis (t-test, ANOVA)
- Impact Analysis
12.5.3 Other analyses: (Moderation, Mediation, etc.,)

13. References (e.g., APA style)

14. Appendix
 Elements of a Qualitative Research Proposal
1. Title
2. Abstract

3. Background and Setting

4. Problem Statement
5. Purpose Statement (PS)
Chapter 1
6. Specific Research Questions (RQs)
Introduction
7. Definition of Terms
7.1 Conceptual
7.2 Operational
8. Significance of Study
Chapter 2
9. Scope and Limitation of the Study
Literature Review
10. Literature Review
11. Theoretical Framework

12. Methods
12.1 Types of Qualitative Research/Design Chapter 3
12.2 Site and Sample Selection
12.3 Data Collection Methods
Methods
12.4 Data Analysis Procedures

13. References (e.g., APA style)

14. Appendix
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.1. Background and Setting
• Provide reader with necessary background and setting to
put the problem in proper context.
• Lets the reader see the basis for the study.
• Justifies and convinces the reader that the study is
justified.
• Be factual – statements, opinions and points-of-views
should be documented.
• Provide a logical lead-in (introduction) to a clear and
concise statement of the problem.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.2. Statement of the Problem/Problem Statement
• Characteristics of properly stated problem will be discussed
in great details in the coming lesson.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1. 3. Purpose/Objective of Study/Research Question/Hypothesis
• This topic will be discussed in greater details in the coming lecture.
• Best located after the statement of the problem in descriptive
research.
• Indicates the data to be collected and the analysis to be carried out
for each research objective/question.
• Make clear the direct connection between specific objectives and
hypotheses and related literature and theory.
• Controversial as to whether or not research hypotheses go here or
in Chapter 2 or 3.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.4. Definition of Terms
• Define terms in the context where they will be used – provide
operational definitions.
• Include a list of definitions for terms and concepts that have
significant meaning for the study.
• Do not define generally understood concepts, principles and
concerns.
• Define all the variables in you study: Include the conceptual and
operational definitions.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.5. Limitations of the study
• Summarize limitations brought about by the procedures of
the study.
• Describe the procedural limitations in detail in appropriate
section; just summarize here.
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.6. Significance of the Study
• State contribution in terms of new product, knowledge and theory
advancement.
• Describe clearly how the findings of the study could be used in
practice – practical contribution.
• Who (what individuals or groups) can use this new knowledge or
new product?
• How can these persons use the knowledge or information yielded
by the research to change or improve the present situations?
• How will the study contribute to the improvement of the profession
or field of study?
Chapter 2 – Review of Literature
This topic will be discussed in details in the coming lecture.
• Provides tentative solutions to the problem or tentative answers
to the questions.
• Indicates the theoretical framework on which the study is based
(will be discussed in dept in the coming lesson).
• Provides the rationale for the hypotheses (if any).
• Organized and written in reference to the specific objectives of the
study.
• Proposal generally do not include a complete review as does the
final report
Chapter 3 – Methodology/Procedures
• Describe concisely how you plan to carry out the study/research.
• Elements usually found in a quantitative research are as follows
3.1. Research Design
• Describe the type of research to be conducted,
quantitative/qualitative/Mixed method.
• Clearly indicate which design is to address each objective or
question.
Chapter 3 – Methodology/Procedures
3.2. Population and Sampling
• For quantitative research identify population to be studied and how a frame
(list of elements in the population) will be developed and explain why this
population is appropriate for this study.
• How the sample size is determined and the sampling procedure is described.
3.3. Instrument/Measurement
• Describe how to measure each variable in your study. Whose instrument you
adopt and adapt?
3.4. Data Collection
• Describe in details how to gather or collect your research data for each of your
research question and objective
3.5. Data Analysis
• What type of statistical analysis will be used for each research objective?
Common Weaknesses in a Research Proposal
• Unsatisfactory sampling procedure
• Stating of hypotheses (quantitative research) that could not be tested
• Using inappropriate methodology
• Inadequate literature review
• Titles unsatisfactorily written
• The introductions to the proposal were unsatisfactorily written lacked
clarity and focus
• Lack of clarity and articulation of problem statements
• Objectives not clearly stated
Common Weaknesses in a Research Proposal
• Literature review inadequate or inappropriate, poor presentation and
lack of focus of the reviews
• Hypotheses not clearly formulated/presentation of irrelevant hypotheses
(quantitative research)
• Methods used were not clearly presented
• Unsatisfactory explanation of the sampling procedures
• Data analysis were not appropriate, not clearly stated and did not
attempt to state the data analysis technique
• Documents submitted were not edited, poor text and presentation of
write up
• Literatures are not critically reviewed.
• The data are under- described
• No attempt is made to assess the reliability and validity of measurements
Criteria for Judging a Good Research Proposal
• Elements of a Good Proposal
• A good proposal has nine (9) elements, and each is important in
an effective presentation.
• The specific format and content of the elements may vary,
depending on requirements in the solicitation or
announcement.
• It is also important to remember the elements will not always
appear as separate sections or in the order listed here.
1. Statement of the Problem
This section should include a clear and concise statement of the
purpose or goal of the project. In a grant proposal, it consists of
• Issues that require research or problems that require
solutions have to be clearly stated and explained,
• A number specific question(s) to be answered,
• A brief explanation of the need for or significance of the
study, and
• An explanation of how the results will contribute to the
existing body of knowledge.
2. Literature Review
• A proposal should reflect the researcher’s understanding of
relevant bodies of literature and where his/her study fits in that
context.
• This section need not be lengthy, however it should be
comprehensive.
• It should trace the central themes in the literature, highlight
major areas of disagreement, and reflect a critical stance
toward the materials reviewed.
• Citing weak research or poorly articulated theory does not help.
3. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
• In this section, the researcher provides his/her own perspective.
• What theories or concepts will guide the study?
• How or why do they suggest the specific hypotheses or research
questions?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed
framework?
• The proposal should contain clear evidence that the researcher
understands the theoretical perspective and can work with it.
4. Hypotheses or Research Questions
• Following the description of the theoretical/conceptual
framework, there should be a clear, crisp statement of the
research questions or hypotheses, or, in the case of some
quantitative studies, a concise description of the phenomena to
be examined.
• Depending on the requirements of the solicitation, the
hypotheses may be stated informally or formally.
• Finally, an explanation of why testing the hypotheses or
answering the questions is appropriate for elucidating the
research problems and is consistent with the
theoretical/conceptual framework should be included.
5. Methodology
• This section consists of a description of plans for collecting and analyzing the data.
• What instruments will be used?
• Why are they appropriate for this study?
• Is there evidence of the instruments' reliability and validity?
• How and to whom will they be administered?
• What procedures will be followed in the data analysis?
• For qualitative studies, there should be an explanation of the purpose of observations
and interviews, and, if possible, some indication of their content and format.
• The description of the proposed methodology should contain enough detail to indicate
that the researcher knows what he/she is doing.
• Proposals that include the formula for a statistical test as the only information about
plans for data analysis don't lend confidence that the study will yield robust findings or
rich insights.
• Similarly, proposals that simply offer to use the newest research procedures may
suggest that the researcher is attentive or attracted to fads, but may not be familiar
with that particular research approach.
6. Task Structure (Scope of Work)
• This section indicates exactly what will be done, the sequence of
the various activities, and the products of deliverables that will
be prepared.
• In preparing grant proposals, there is more freedom to define the
tasks.
• In both cases, it is important that the proposed task structure
includes all of the activities necessary for completing the project.
• Planning a viable schedule for carrying out the tasks is often as
important as developing a comprehensive list of tasks.
 MILESTONES C0MPLETED BY
Phase I (Commence January 2014)
a Completion of literature review & secondary data analysis June 2015
b Workshop/In-depth interviews (two rounds) June 2015
c Engagement with SMEs June 2015
d Development of Cost-Benefit Model December 2015
e Completion of Design and pilot test of survey questionnaires (Obj 2 & 3) March 2016
Phase II
f Redesign of survey questionnaire (Obj 2 & 3) September 2016
g Completion of administering survey questionnaire to selected respondents (Obj March 2017
2 & 3)
h Completion of qualitative case study (Obj 1) March 2017
Phase III
i Completion of data analysis June 2017
j Completion of report writing December 2017
 MILESTONES COMPLETED BY

a. Completion of literature review June 2014

Completion of focus group Interviews to describe and identify the various Jan 2015
b.
elements/components and constructs of morale framework

Completion of workshop to develop the integrative morale framework and June 2015
c.
instrument for measuring morale
Completion of pilot testings of various elements/components and construct Sept 2015
d.
measurements with selected respondents
Completion on exploring and confirm the various elements/components of Jan 2016
e.
construct measurements of morale framework

Completion of quantitative survey and data collection to validate morale Sept 2016
f.
framework

g. Completion of data entry and analysis Dec 2016

h Completion of report and publication Dec 2017

i. Completion of manual write up for morale management Dec 2018

 GANTT CHART OF RESEARCH ACTIVITIES OF LRGS PROJECT 5
Technology Transfer and Socio-Economic Impact of Malaysian Military Armored Vehicle Procurement

2014 2015 2016 2017

Activities

A-J J-S A-J J-S A-J J-S A-J J-S

J-M O-D J-M O-D J-M O-D J-M O-D
Q2 Q3 Q2 Q3 Q2 Q3 Q2 Q3
Q1 Q4 Q1 Q4 Q1 Q4 Q1 Q4

Preliminary Studies on Technology Transfer and Socio-

Economic Impact

Completion of literature review & secondary data analysis

Workshop/Indepth interviews (two rounds)

Engagement with SMEs

Development of Cost-Benefit Model

Completion of Design and pilot test of survey

questionnaires (Obj 2 & 3)

Redesign of survey questionnaire (Obj 2 & 3)

Completion of administering survey questionnaire to

selected respondents (Obj 2 & 3)

Completion of qualitatitive case study (Obj 1)

Completion of data analysis

Completion of report writing

Report submission
GANTT CHART OF RESEARCH ACTIVITIES OF NRGS PROJECT 4b
DEVELOPMENT OF FRAMEWORK FOR THE IDENTIFICATION, MEASUREMENT, AND MANAGEMENT OF MORALE OF MALAYSIAN INFANTRY PERSONNEL

2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

Activities
J-M A-J J-S O-D J-M A-J J-S O-D J-M A-J J-S O-D J-M A-J J-S O-D J-J

Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1-Q2
1.Literature Review

2. Focus Group Interviews to describe and

identify the various elements/components
and constructs of morale framework
3. Workshop to develop the integrative
morale framework and instrument for
measuring morale
4.Pilot testings of construct measurements
with selected respondents
5.Explore and confirm the various
elements/components and constructs of
morale framework
6.Quantitative survey and data collection to
validate morale framework
7.Data entry and analysis

8. Report Writing and publication

9.Develop guidebook for morale
management
7. Staff and Institutional Qualifications
• This section includes a full discussion of the qualifications and experience of
the proposed researcher and team members.
• Sometimes it is useful to include brief summaries of the staff experience in
the management plan and to attach complete resumes for each member of
the team as appendices to the proposal.
• This information is essential and should be presented in a way that
demonstrates that the staff has the necessary qualifications and experience
to conduct the research.
• This section should also include complete information about the relevant
qualifications of the institution where the project will be located.
• Research projects often require a variety of hardware or software and there
should be clear evidence that adequate facilities are available to support the
project.
8. Budget
• The project budget should include clear and reasonable estimates of the costs of each
element of the project, and there should be enough supporting information to indicate
how the estimates were developed.
• Base salaries for all staff, standard charges for computer use, and allowable travel costs
are a few examples of useful background information.
• In preparing the budget, remember that the budget is a reflection of the researcher’s
understanding of the project and his/her ability to plan and manage effectively.
• A budget that is too low may indicate failure to grasp how much work is really necessary
to do a good job.
• A budget that is too high may also suggest a lack of understanding of what is required,
or it may reflect careless management.
• Both make the proposal unattractive.
• For example, different grant programs require that certain forms be used in preparing
budgets, although background information can usually be presented in a number of
ways.
• These forms should be filled out carefully and completely, since they are usually
examined first when business sections of the proposal are reviewed.
• Even if a budget is not required, it is a good idea to have a budget for internal purposes.
Budget Details for Project: Technology Transfer and Socio-Economic Impact of Malaysian Military Armored Vehicle Procurement

Vote Budget Details Amount

No. Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Total
(RM) (RM) (RM) (RM) (RM) (RM)
1 Vote 11000 -
Salary and wages
(GRA/RA) 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000
1 x PhD – RM2000/month 36,000 36,000 168,000
2 x Master – RM1500/mth (-18,000)
2 Vote 21000 -
Travelling and Transportation/
Attending meeting, workshop and conferences 7, 000 7,200 7,200 7,200 28,800
3 Vote 24000 -
Rental 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 60,000
4 Vote 27000 -
Research Materials & Supplies 5,650 6,000 5,000 12,000 30,000
*(-910)
5 Vote 28000 -
Maintenance and Minor Repair Services 0.00
6 Vote 29000 -
Professional Services 5,000 2,500 2,500 2,500
Consultation and honororium for workshop participant (-5,646.30) 3,000 16,000
Publication Fee *(-71.10) 3,000
7 Vote 35000 -
Accessories and Equipment 10,000 5,000 10,000
Software - OR *(-9,435)

TOTAL AMOUNT 102,650 95,700 56,700 63,700 312,800

*(34,062.4)
BUDGET DETAILS FOR PROJECT: DEVELOPMENT OF FRAMEWORK FOR THE IDENTIFICATION, MEASUREMENT, AND
MANAGEMENT OF MORALE OF MALAYSIAN INFANTRY PERSONNEL
Vote
No.
Budget Details Amount
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Total
(RM) (RM) (RM) (RM) (RM) (RM)

1 Vote 11000 -
Salary and wages
(GRA/RA) 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000
1 x PhD – RM2000/month 18,000 18,000 132,000
1 x Master – RM1500/mth

2 Vote 21000 -
Travelling and Transportation/ 20,000 50,000 50,000 20,000 10,000 150,000
Data Collection: Focus group interview,Validating instrument, &
quantitative Survey
3 Vote 24000 -
Rental
4 Vote 27000 -
Research Materials & Supplies 7,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 22,000
5 Vote 28000 -
Maintenance and Minor Repair Services 0.00
6 Vote 29000 -
Professional Services 10,000 10,000 8,000 28,000
Consultation and honororium for workshop participant
Publication Fee 3,000 4,000 7,000
7 Vote 35000 -
Accessories and Equipment 15,000 15,000
Software - OR

TOTAL AMOUNT 94,000 107,000 87,000 52,000 14,000 354,000

9. Quality writing
• A Quality writing is critical in all good proposals.
• It should be clear, concise, and free of jargon.
• There should be no spelling or grammatical errors, and the proposal
should be easy to read.
• Sloppy proposals and proposals laden with jargon do not provide a
positive image of the researcher, nor do they lend confidence that
solid research will follow.
• Proposals that are well-written and attractive are a pleasure to
read, and they make a good impression with reviewers.
References
1. Ary, D., Jacobs, L. C., & Sorensen, C., (2010). Introduction to Research in
Education (8th ed.) Belmont: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.
2. Creswell, J. W. (2014). Educational Research: Planning, Conducting &
Evaluating Quantitative & Qualitative Research, (4th ed.) Pearson
International.
3. McMillan, J., Schumacher, S. (2014). Research in Education: Evidence-
Based Inquiry (7th ed.) Pearson New International Edition.
4. Sekaran, Y., Bougie, R., (2013). Research Methods for Business: A Skill
Building Approach (6th ed.). Cornwall: Wiley.
5. Zikmund, W. G., Babin, B.J., Carr, J.C., & Griffin, M., (2013). Business
Research Methods (9th ed.). South-Western, Cengage Learning.
Thank You
For Listening