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Sarhad University of Science & Information Technology

Institute of Nursing Sciences,

Year-4, Semester-7

COURSE SYLLABUS

Course Title: Nursing Research

Course Credits: Credits 03-(Theory: 3)

Course Code: 314

Theory Placement: INS-SUIT

Date & Time: Theory: Monday & Thursday 0900-1200hrs

Course Faculty Coordinator: Nasreen Ghani (Professor at INS-SUIT)

Contact Number: 0321-9695112 Email Id: [email protected].

Co-Faculty (Theory): Farman Ullah Khan & Imtiaz Ahmad (MSN Scholars)

Co-Faculty name Contacts Email address

Mr. Farman Ullah Khan 0346-1210230 [email protected]

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Mr. Imtiaz Ahmad 0300-9739357 [email protected]

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Course Description:

This course focuses on developing understanding of scientific approach and methods of the research

process and critical appraisal of existing nursing and related health literature. The contents will enable

nurses to utilize research findings to promote relationship of research to practice, education and

administration.

Course Objectives:

On completion of Course, learners will be able to:

2. Recognize the research process as a systematic approach to thought and the generation of nursing

knowledge.

3. Understand the process of Evidence based health care.

4. Identify the role of nursing research in the development of a body of nursing knowledge that promotes

nursing as a profession.

5. Explain the ethical consideration used in nursing research for the safety of human subject and the

conduct of research.

6. Analyze/ critique research studies in nursing and other health sciences to evaluate the use of research

process, methodologies, validity, reliability, application & research findings to the practice, and its

significant to development of nursing.

7. Prepare a condensed research proposal (either quantitative or qualitative)

Teaching/Learning Strategies:

Preparatory reading assignments, lecture, discussion, panel discussion and small group assignments,

presentations & critique.

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Evaluation Criteria

Mid term 30 %

Critique 10 %

Quiz 1 (surprise) 5%

Quiz 2 (surprise) 5%

Sessional total 20 %

Proposal writing + Synopsis Presentation 10+10 = 20 %

Final 30 %

Total 100%

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COURSE SCHEDULE

Day/date Topic Faculty

Unit 1
WEEK 1 Introduction: Overview, Definition, ways of knowing: Farman Ullah khan &
Source of human knowledge
Imtiaz Ahmad
Purpose of scientific research
Limitation of scientific method
Research Terminology
Unit 2
WEEK 2 Ethics in Research FU &
Ethical issues in nursing research
IA
Unit 3
WEEK 3 Selecting and identifying the research problem/ FU &
purposes
IA
Formulating Hypothesis
Literature Review
The conceptual frame work in research studies.
Unit 4
WEEK 4 Quantitative Research Design FU &
 Experimental and quasi experimental research
IA
 Non experimental research
 Epidemiological Design.
 Action research/Multi-disciplinary research
Unit 5
WEEK 5 Methodology: Populations and Samples. Measurement & Data FU &
Collection. IA
Interview and Questionnaire
Observational Method
Biophysical Data and other Collection Method
WEEK 6 Criteria for assessing and selecting FU &
measuring tool.
Reliability and validity of the tools and IA
studies Quantitative Analysis
Unit 6
WEEK 7 Qualitative Designs: Introduction to: FU &
 Phenomenological.
IA
 Case study
 Grounded Theory/Ethnographic
Historical Research/Qualitative Research,
Methodologies & Triangulation
Unit 7
WEEK 8 Critiquing Quantitative Research FU &

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Critiquing Qualitative Research

IA
WEEK 9 MID EXAM
Unit 8
WEEK 10 Utilizing Nursing Research/Evidence Based Practice. FU &
IA
Unit 9
WEEK 11 Proposal writing
STUDY DESIGN:
1. The study design is appropriate to the problem
STUDY PARTICIPANTS
1. The target population is clearly described.
2. The sample size and major characteristics are appropriate (the
sample is representative).
3. The method for choosing the sample is stated clearly
INSTRUMENTS
1. Each instrument is described as to purpose, content, strengths,
and weaknesses.
2. Rationale for choosing instruments are discussed.
3. Instrument validity is discussed.
4. Instrument reliability is discussed.
PROCEDURES
1. The data collection procedure is appropriate for the study.
2. Steps in the data collection procedure are described clearly and
concisely.
3. Protection of human rights is assured.
4. The study is replicable from the information provided.
5. Appropriate limitations of the study and significant
assumptions are stated.
WEEK 12 DATA ANALYSIS FU %
1. The choice of statistical procedures is appropriate.
IA
2. Statistical procedures are correctly applied to the data.
3. Tables, charts, and graphs are clear & relevant to the findings
DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Generalize ability is warranted
2. Interpretations are based on the data.
3. Conclusions are based on the data.
4. Conclusions are clearly stated.
5. Recommendations are feasible and relevant.
WEEK 13 PROPOSAL PRESENTATIONS
WEEK 14 PROPOSAL PRESENTATIONS
WEEK 15 ASSIGMENTS FEEDBACK FOR IMPROVMENT
WEEK 16 FINAL TERM EXAM

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Note: Use Standard Writing Style for critiquing a research report.

References:
1. Burns, N., & Grove, S. S. (2006). Understanding nursing research. Philadelphia: W. B.
Saunders.

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Critique of Research Paper (10%)

Guidelines for Research Critique

Type (double space) all critiques using APA format; you may use up to 6-8 pages for the assignment (this

includes references).

General Features

1. Comment on the study’s strengths as well as weaknesses. All research has some positive features – be

sure to note them.

2. Give specific examples of weakness and strengths.

3. Justify your criticisms; offer a rationale for using a different approach.

4. Be as objective as possible. Avoid being critical of the research if you are not interested in the topic.

5. Suggest alternatives to problems, if you identify issues in the study.

6. Avoid telling the reader as what is written in the article or describing component of research

(problem, design etc.), but given your knowledge of research, appraise each section of the article you

are critiquing.

7. Organize your comments logically and be correct grammatically

8. Focus more on the critique instead of providing descriptive information.

9. For a comprehensive critique, you may ask the following questions from yourself as you

read the article:

The Problem

1. Is the problem significant to nursing and is the significance described?

2. Has the purpose for conducting the research been explained? Do you feel this study can accomplish

its purpose?

3. Do you feel a quantitative approach is appropriate? Explain why?

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4. Do the research variables or phenomenon has been explained?

5. Was problem statement introduced promptly?

6. Will an answer to the problem provide insight into current issues in nursing practice?

7. What are the assumptions and limitations of the study? Are they listed or do you have to infer what

they are? Are these assumptions and limitations realistic?

Review of the Literature

1. Is the review comprehensive, critical, logical and relevant to the problem? Is the relationship to the

research purpose evident?

2. Does it include recent research and theoretical work?

3. Is the review paraphrased adequately or are there too many quotes?

4. Can a case be made for conducting a new study based on the review?

Theoretical / Conceptual Framework

1. Is a theory or framework described? If not, do you think a framework (conceptual/theoretical) could

have been used?

2. Is there justification of the type of theory or framework used?

3. Does the research problem flow naturally from the theory or framework?

4. Are all concepts defined in a manner consistent with the theory or framework?

Questions/Hypothesis: (appropriate for the research design)

1. Are hypotheses formally stated? If not, should they be formally stated and why? If included, is it

appropriate to have the hypothesis?

2. Do hypotheses naturally flow from the research problem and theory or framework?

3. Does each hypothesis contain at least two variables?

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4. Are hypotheses worded clearly and objectively? Is a prediction evident? If yes, is

there support for these predictions?

OR

5. Do the questions indicate the research Phenomenon and population?

Sampling

1. Is the target population carefully described? Given the problem and resource limitations, is the target

population appropriate?

2. Are sample selection procedures clearly defined?

3. Does the sampling method fit the research design and level of inquiry of study?

4. Are potential sample biases described?

5. Is the sample sufficiently inadequate? How has size been justified?

6. To whom can study results be generalized?

7. What controls have been utilized to ensure a representative sample? How has sampling error been

minimized?

Research Design

1. What design has been used for the study?

2. Is the design appropriate for the level of inquiry of research question and purpose of research?

Data Collection

1. Describe the tool/study guide/instruments used for data collection.

2. Has rationale been given for the selection of tool/questionnaire?

3. Are methods of data collection congruent with research question?

4. Are the tools of data collection suitable for use with the study sample?

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Analysis

1. Are the methods of analysis clearly described?

2. Does the method of analysis fit with the level of inquiry?

3. Does the research design fit with the analysis methods used?

Specific to Quantitative

1. Does the level of measurement of the data fit with the type of statistics used?

2. Is the link between the analysis and the findings logical and clear? Consider hypotheses tested and p

values. Did the researcher go beyond the data in interpreting the results?

3. Is the statistical result presented clearly both in the text as well as in numerical presentation?

4. Is there enough evidence to establish the correctness of the statistical result?

5. Are graphic displays clear, simple, and accurate?

Specific to Qualitative

1. How were themes and concepts derived from the data?

2. Are concepts / themes/theories developed supported by the raw data?

3. Are the explanations presented plausible and coherent? Or there could be alternative explanations?

Protection of Human Rights

1. Has the study been designed to minimize risk and maximize benefits to participants?

2. Is there an indication that participants gave voluntary, informed consent?

3. Is there evidence of coercion?

4. Were participants invited to consent during periods of high stress?

5. Is there evidence in the study that individuals can be identified?

6. Is there evidence of an independent ethics review by either a board or committee?

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Rigor

Quantitative Rigor

1. Have the potential effects of unwanted variables been discussed along with possible measure to

control such effects (validity)?

2. Has enough information been given to permit replication?

3. Have procedures for testing reliability and validity of instruments been described? Are results of

these tests sufficient to indicate their use?

Qualitative Rigor

1. Were the methods of data collection reliable and independently verifiable (e.g., audiotape, videotape,

field notes)?

2. Were observations taken in a range of circumstances (e.g., at different times)?

3. Did more than one researcher perform the analysis, and what method was used to resolve differences

of interpretation?

4. Were negative or discrepant results fully addressed, or just ignored?

5. What was the researcher’s perspective?

6. Had the researcher critically examined his or her own role, potential bias and influence?

Conclusions and Recommendations

1. Are results of data analysis clearly explained in reference to research questions, hypotheses and

theoretical framework?

2. What conclusions are drawn, and are they justified by the results?

3. Are the results applicable to your patients? What are the potential benefits and risks of implementing

study findings in your context?

4. What recommendations have been made for nursing practice and future research studies? Are these

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recommendations supported by the data?

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STROBE Statement—checklist of items that should be included in reports of observational studies

Ite Recommendation Pag Relevant text

m e from
No. No. manuscript
Title and abstract 1 (a) Indicate the study’s design with a commonly
used term in the title or the abstract
(b) Provide in the abstract an informative and
balanced summary of what was done and what was
found
Introduction
Background/ 2 Explain the scientific background and rationale for
rationale the investigation being reported
Objectives 3 State specific objectives, including any prespecified
hypotheses
Methods
Study design 4 Present key elements of study design early in the
paper
Setting 5 Describe the setting, locations, and relevant dates,
including periods of recruitment, exposure, follow-
up, and data collection
Participants 6 (a) Cohort study—Give the eligibility criteria, and
the sources and methods of selection of
participants. Describe methods of follow-up
Case-control study—Give the eligibility criteria,
and the sources and methods of case ascertainment
and control selection. Give the rationale for the
choice of cases and controls
Cross-sectional study—Give the eligibility criteria,
and the sources and methods of selection of
participants
(b) Cohort study—For matched studies, give
matching criteria and number of exposed and
unexposed
Case-control study—For matched studies, give
matching criteria and the number of controls per
case
Variables 7 Clearly define all outcomes, exposures, predictors,
potential confounders, and effect modifiers. Give
diagnostic criteria, if applicable
Data sources/ 8* For each variable of interest, give sources of data
measurement and details of methods of assessment
(measurement). Describe comparability of
assessment methods if there is more than one group
Bias 9 Describe any efforts to address potential sources of
bias
Study size 10 Explain how the study size was arrived at
Continued on next page

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Quantitativ 11 Explain how quantitative variables were handled in the

e variables analyses. If applicable, describe which groupings were
chosen and why
Statistical 12 (a) Describe all statistical methods, including those used
methods to control for confounding
(b) Describe any methods used to examine subgroups
and interactions
(c) Explain how missing data were addressed
(d) Cohort study—If applicable, explain how loss to
follow-up was addressed
Case-control study—If applicable, explain how
matching of cases and controls was addressed
Cross-sectional study—If applicable, describe analytical
methods taking account of sampling strategy
(e) Describe any sensitivity analyses
Results
Participants 13 (a) Report numbers of individuals at each stage of study
* —eg numbers potentially eligible, examined for
eligibility, confirmed eligible, included in the study,
completing follow-up, and analysed
(b) Give reasons for non-participation at each stage
(c) Consider use of a flow diagram
Descriptive 14 (a) Give characteristics of study participants (eg
data * demographic, clinical, social) and information on
exposures and potential confounders
(b) Indicate number of participants with missing data for
each variable of interest
(c) Cohort study—Summarise follow-up time (eg,
average and total amount)
Outcome 15 Cohort study—Report numbers of outcome events or
data * summary measures over time
Case-control study—Report numbers in each exposure
category, or summary measures of exposure
Cross-sectional study—Report numbers of outcome
events or summary measures
Main 16 (a) Give unadjusted estimates and, if applicable,
results confounder-adjusted estimates and their precision (eg,
95% confidence interval). Make clear which
confounders were adjusted for and why they were
included
(b) Report category boundaries when continuous
variables were categorized
(c) If relevant, consider translating estimates of relative
risk into absolute risk for a meaningful time period
Continued on next page

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Other analyses 1 Report other analyses done—eg analyses of subgroups

7 and interactions, and sensitivity analyses
Discussion
Key results 1 Summarize key results with reference to study objectives
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Limitations 1 Discuss limitations of the study, taking into account
9 sources of potential bias or imprecision. Discuss both
direction and magnitude of any potential bias
Interpretation 2 Give a cautious overall interpretation of results
0 considering objectives, limitations, multiplicity of
analyses, results from similar studies, and other relevant
evidence
Generalizabilit 2 Discuss the generalizability (external validity) of the
y 1 study results
Other information
Funding 2 Give the source of funding and the role of the funders for
2 the present study and, if applicable, for the original study
on which the present article is based

Give information separately for cases and controls in case-control studies and, if applicable,

for exposed and unexposed groups in cohort and cross-sectional studies.

Note: An Explanation and Elaboration article discusses each checklist item and gives

methodological background and published examples of transparent reporting. The STROBE

checklist is best used in conjunction with this article (freely available on the Web sites of

PLoS Medicine at http://www.plosmedicine.org/, Annals of Internal Medicine at

http://www.annals.org/, and Epidemiology at http://www.epidem.com/). Information on the

STROBE Initiative is available at www.strobe-statement.org.

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RUBRICS FOR RESEARCH CRITIQUE EVALUATION

Criteria Specific Questions Points Obtaine Remarks

The Problem (20 %)

1. Is the problem significant to nursing, and is its

significance described?

2. Has the research purpose been explained? Can

this study accomplish its purpose?

3. Is a quantitative approach appropriate? Why or

why not?

4. Are the research variables or phenomenon

clearly explained?

5. Was the problem statement introduced

promptly?

6. Will an answer to the problem provide insights

for current nursing issues?

7. Are the assumptions and limitations listed or

inferred, and are they realistic?

Review of the (10%)

Literature 1. Is the review comprehensive, critical, logical,

and relevant to the problem?

2. Does it include recent research and theoretical

work?

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3. Is the review paraphrased adequately without

excessive quotes?

4. Is there a clear rationale for conducting a new

study?

Theoretical / (5%)

Conceptual 1. Is a theory or framework described, and does it

Framework justify the study?

2. Does the research problem flow naturally from

the theory/framework?

3. Are all concepts defined consistently with the

theory or framework?

Research (5%)

Questions / 1. Are hypotheses formally stated, and do they

Hypotheses logically flow from the problem/theory?

2. Does each hypothesis contain at least two

variables?

3. Are the hypotheses worded clearly and

objectively, with predictions supported by the

literature?

Sampling (10%)

1. Is the target population appropriate for the

problem?

2. Are selection procedures and potential sample

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biases clearly defined?

3. Is sample size justified and representative for

generalizability?

Research Design (5%)

1. Is the design suitable for the research question

and purpose?

Data Collection (10%)

1. Are tools or instruments for data collection

suitable and justified?

2. Do data collection methods align with the

research question?

Data Analysis (10%)

1. Are analysis methods clear, suitable, and

congruent with the level of inquiry?

2. For quantitative: Does the statistical analysis

match the data level and hypothesis?

3. For qualitative: Are themes derived logically,

with coherent explanations?

Protection of (5%)

Human Rights 1. Was risk minimized, and were participants’

rights respected, with informed consent clearly

indicated?

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Rigor (10%)

1. Quantitative rigor: Have unwanted variable

effects been controlled and reliability/validity

tested?

2. Qualitative rigor: Are data collection methods

reliable, and have alternative explanations been

addressed?

Conclusions and (10%)

Recommendation 1. Are conclusions justified by the data, with

s practical applications for nursing practice?

2. Are recommendations relevant and based on

study findings?

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GUIDELINES FOR RESEARCH PROPOSAL WRITING (10 %)

 TITLE

 Use Common Terms for Study Design: As the STROBE guideline suggests, incorporate a clear,

recognized term for the study design. For example, “Cross-Sectional Analysis of Heart Disease

Prevalence in Urban Areas” clearly indicates the nature of the study.

 Balance Conciseness and Informativeness: A good research title should be concise but informative

enough to provide the reader with an understanding of the study’s focus. For instance, a title like

“Prevalence and Risk Factors for Obesity: A Cohort Study in Urban Youth” is both direct and

descriptive.

 Reflect Key Variables and Outcomes: Including main variables or outcomes in the title can

enhance clarity. For instance, "Association between Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health: A

Longitudinal Cohort Study” offers insight into the focus on activity levels and heart health.

 Ensure Clarity and Avoid Jargon: Avoid overly technical language, which can limit accessibility.

A title should be comprehensible to a broad scientific audience.

 Use Active and Specific Language: An active, specific title conveys the research question

effectively. For example, “Investigating Sleep Patterns in Adolescents: A Multi-Center

Observational Study” uses strong, precise terms to communicate the study’s scope.

 Background of the Study

 Ensure the background clearly presents the study's context and identifies the specific problem or

issue being addressed.

 Evaluate whether the significance of the topic is well-articulated and establishes its relevance to the

field or broader implications.

 Purpose and Questions of the Study

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 Review if the purpose of the study is explicitly stated and aligned with the problem.

 Assess if research questions are clear, specific, and relevant to the purpose, and whether they are

structured to guide the research effectively.

 Study Design

 Identify the study design (e.g., experimental, descriptive, correlational) and evaluate if it is

appropriate for answering the research questions.

 Consider whether the design choices are well-justified and align with the study's objectives.

 Study Population, Setting, Sample, and Sampling Technique

 Examine the description of the study population and the rationale behind selecting it, as well as the

setting in which data collection occurs.

 Evaluate the sampling technique (e.g., random sampling, convenience sampling) to determine if it

suits the research design and purpose.

 Check if the sample size is adequate and justified, considering the goals of the study.

 Study Variables

 Identify the study's independent, dependent, and extraneous variables.

 Look for clear definitions of each variable, both conceptually and operationally, and assess if these

are suitable for the study framework.

 Data Collection

 Evaluate the data collection methods (e.g., questionnaire, interview, observation) for their

appropriateness in answering the research questions.

 Assess if the tools used are validated and reliable, with a rationale for their selection in the context of

the study.

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 Study Rigor

 Review the methods used to ensure the study’s rigor, including validity, reliability, and consistency

in quantitative studies or trustworthiness in qualitative studies.

 Check if the study appropriately controls for biases and limitations, and if measures are in place to

enhance data accuracy.

 Data Analysis Plan

 Assess if the data analysis methods are clearly described and logically connected to the research

questions.

 Determine whether the statistical or thematic analyses align with the data type and the research

design.

 Ethical Considerations

 Evaluate if the study has addressed ethical issues, including informed consent, confidentiality, and

the rights of participants.

 Review for evidence of ethics committee or board approval and any measures taken to minimize

participant risk.

 Clarity of Presentation

 Examine the clarity and organization of the research presentation, both verbal and written.

 Consider if the research is communicated coherently and professionally.

 Handling of Questions and Answers

 Assess the researcher’s ability to respond effectively to questions, showing understanding and depth

of knowledge.

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 Time Management

 Observe if the presentation or critique follows the allocated time and maintains a logical flow,

ensuring all critical aspects are covered without rushing.

RUBRICS FOR RESEARCH PROPOSAL EVALUATION (10 %)

Content 1 2 3 4 5 N/A

1. Title & Background of the study including problem/issue and

significance of the topic

2. Purpose and Questions of the Study

3. Study Design

4. Study population, setting, Sample and sampling

Technique/strategy (who? How many? On what basis, from where

and how sample will be recruited?

5. Study Variables (IVs, DVs, EVs; conceptual and operational

definitions of IVs and DVs, if applicable)

6. Data collection (tool/ questionnaire/interview guide )

7. Study Rigor

8. Data analysis plan

9. Ethical considerations

Process

10. Clarity of presentation (verbal and written)

11. Handling of questions and answers

12. Time management

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APA 7th Edition Guidelines for Assignment Evaluation

 Title Page

 Include a title that reflects the content and purpose of the assignment.

 Title page should have: Title, Author’s Name, Institution, Course Name and Number, Instructor’s

Name, and Date (centered and double-spaced).

 Formatting

 Use a readable font like Times New Roman (12 pt), Arial (11 pt), or Calibri (11 pt).

 Double-space all text, with no extra spacing between paragraphs.

 Use 1-inch margins on all sides.

 Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches.

 Headings

 Utilize APA style headings to organize content (e.g., Level 1 and Level 2 headings).

 Capitalize headings according to APA style:

 Level 1 (centered, bold, title case),

 Level 2 (flush left, bold, title case),

 Level 3 (flush left, bold italic, title case).

 In-text Citations

 Cite all sources within the text, following author-date format (e.g., Smith, 2020).

 For direct quotes, include page number(s) (e.g., Smith, 2020, p. 15).

 For paraphrased content, page numbers are optional but encouraged for clarity.

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 Quotations

 Short quotes (fewer than 40 words): integrate into the text with quotation marks.

 Long quotes (40 words or more): format as a block quote, indented 0.5 inches from the left, with

no quotation marks.

 Reference Page

 Start the References section on a new page with the title “References” centered and bolded.

 Use a hanging indent (0.5 inches) for each reference.

 Follow APA 7th guidelines for reference types, including author(s), publication date, title, and

source.

 Example: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of work: Subtitle if applicable. Publisher.

 Language and Tone

 Use clear, concise, and objective language.

 Write in the third person unless specified otherwise.

 Avoid biased language and ensure inclusivity (e.g., use “they” as a gender-neutral pronoun).

 Tables and Figures

 Label tables and figures with numbers and titles (e.g., Table 1: Demographic Information).

 Place tables and figures close to the text that references them.

 Provide a note below tables/figures if additional explanation is required, following APA format.

 Appendices (if applicable)

 Place any additional material (e.g., detailed data, surveys) in an Appendix section.

 Each appendix should start on a new page, labeled as “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” etc.

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 Mention all appendices in the main text as they appear.

 Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation

 Proofread for grammatical correctness, spelling accuracy, and proper punctuation.

 Follow APA conventions for punctuation, including the Oxford comma in lists.

 Page Numbers and Running Head

 Include page numbers in the top right corner of each page.

 For student papers, a running head is optional in APA 7th edition; however, include one if

requested (left-aligned in the header with the title in all caps).

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Rubrics for APA Evaluation

Criteria Description 1 2 3 4 5

Title Page Title page includes title, author’s name, institution, course name

and code, instructor’s name, and date.

Formatting Uses readable font (e.g., Times New Roman 12 pt), 1-inch

margins, double-spaced text, and 0.5-inch paragraph indent.

Headings Proper use of APA headings (Levels 1 and 2 as appropriate) with

correct capitalization and formatting.

In-text Citations Correct author-date citation format; includes page numbers for

direct quotes.

Quotations Short quotes integrated with quotation marks; long quotes as

block format (indented 0.5 inches, no quotes).

Reference Page References start on new page, labeled “References”; correct

formatting, hanging indent, accurate APA citations.

Language and Tone Clear, concise, and objective language; third person, unbiased

and inclusive language.

Tables and Figures Correctly labeled tables and figures, close to relevant text, with

titles and notes if needed.

Appendices If applicable, each appendix labeled (e.g., Appendix A) and

mentioned in the text as it appears.

Grammar and Free of grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation

Spelling issues; adherence to APA punctuation rules.

Page Numbers and Page numbers in the top right corner; running head optional (if

Running Head used, title in all caps, left-aligned).

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Scoring Guidelines

 1 = Not Present or Incorrect

 2 = Needs Significant Improvement

 3 = Partially Meets Requirements

 4 = Meets Requirements with Minor Errors

 5 = Excellent, Fully Meets Requirements

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RESEARCH PROPOSAL TEMPLATE

No: _____________________ Date: ______________________

Title (not to exceed 50 words):

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Name of
Candidate:______________________________________________________________________________

Name of
Supervisor:______________________________________________________________________________

Co-Supervisors:

1. ________________________________________________________________________

2. ________________________________________________________________________

3. ________________________________________________________________________

Duration of Project: ____________________________________________________________

Institute
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Budget Required: ___________________________________________________________________________

Name & Signature of Student/Scholar: __________________________________________

Name & Signature of the Supervisor: __________________________________________

Name & Signature of Head of Institute: __________________________________________

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1. TITLE (not to exceed 50 words): Should reflect objective of the study.

2. INTRODUCTION: (must include problem statement, background information and rationale 250-300 words)

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3. OBJECTIVE(S): (must be stated in measurable terms and starting with an action verb)

4. OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS: (All variables of study must be clearly defined in detectable terms)

5. HYPOTHESIS (If required): (only the alternate hypothesis must be clearly stated aligned with objective)

6. MATERIALS AND METHODS:

6a. Study Design:

6b. Study Settings:

6c. Study Duration:

6d. Sample Size: (with justification of its calculations and reference used):

6e. Sampling Technique:

7. SAMPLE SELECTION:
34is to be included in the study)
7a. Inclusion Criteria: (What type of subjects or material
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7b. Exclusion Criteria: (What type of subjects or material is to be excluded from the study and why excluded)

8. DATA COLLECTION PROCEDURE: (Detailed inclusion of subjects and data collection plan, including briefs
about laboratory procedures, surgeries etc. Must clearly explain how the researcher will flow his data collection plan
right from start till finishing the follow up on subjects or material.

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9. DATA ANALYSIS PROCEDURE: Detailed description of type of analysis plan according to type of variables
and study design, statistical tests (if required), stratification of confounders/effect modifiers, presentation of results etc
must be clearly mentioned.

10. BIBLIOGRAPHY: In APA style.

ANNEXE:
Annexure I: Data Collection Instrument
Annexure II: Any other Relevant Material (if applicable)

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Student Academic Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures

This Student Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures outlines the expectations of the University in

terms of students general conduct as well as academic conduct. All students should adhere to these

expectations.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism, or other academic misconduct (e.g., cheating on quiz, tests, or exams) will not be tolerated and

may lead to failure in the course, disciplinary probation or expulsion from the Faculty depending on the

nature of the offence.

Pledge of Honour Statement on Written Assignment

Each student has signed a contract on plagiarism which means that you must reference direct quotations,

paraphrases, and ideas taken from sources. Sources such as web pages must also be referenced accordingly.

Students must include the following pledge of honour statement on each written assignment which will be

included as a cover page with the assignment:

“I affirm that I have maintained the highest principles of honesty and integrity in my academic work and I

have neither given nor received unauthorized assistance on this assignment.”

Policy for Late Assignments

Assignments submitted after the deadline without prior notification to or arrangements with the faculty will

be subjected to a penalty. Five percent (2%) will be deducted from your mark for each missed day. Faculty

may use their discretion under exceptional circumstances.

Writing Skills Statement

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All written assignments will be assessed on writing skills which includes not only correctness of grammar,

punctuation, structure but also organization and clarity. All written assignments must follow American

Psychological Association (APA current edition).

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