RESEARCH PROPASAL

Basic Guidelines of writting research proposal

1. Research Topic
   The title of the assignment/thesis must be concise but informative.
   
2. Problem statement
   Research is undertaken with the intention of solving an existing and clearly formulated problem. The precise nature of the problem must be clearly formulated, taking into account, in particular, the meaning of the central concepts posed in its problem statement. The problem statement should be stated in not more than a single paragraph, and should formulate the focal point of the dissertation concisely, intelligibly and clearly.
   
3. Preliminary study:
   An indication must be provided under this heading of the way the proposed research deviates from, or adds to, existing knowledge in the field of enquiry. It is, therefore, essential to mention, in broad outline, other studies that have already been undertaken in the field, if this is possible and if indeed any exist.
   
   In addition you may mention under this heading your research experience or other academic background, relevant to the proposed study (for example, other post-graduate research/training in a related topic).
   NB The only references that should be provided in a list at the end of the proposal are those explicitly mentioned in this part or the rest of the proposal.
   
4. Hypotheses/ Research question
   Although the statement of the problem poses the central question addressed in the assignment/thesis in a concise and focused form, this heading offers the opportunity, if necessary, of formulating the goals more systematically. Assumptions and/or points of departure on which the research will be based and the theoretical framework(s) within which the research will be undertaken are also, as far as possible, stated under this heading.
   
5. Methodology
   Candidates must clearly state what methods they intend using to address and attempt to solve the proposed problem. They should indicate their familiarity with possible controversies that exist in their field of research regarding the methodology in question. In the case of quantitative empirical research details must be provided of the manner in which data will be collected and analysed, possibly with examples of questionnaires or references to standard or newly developed measuring instruments.
   
6. Reference
   A full list of references of all the work consulted for your research proposal (reference according to the accepted Harvard method) should accompany the proposal. Please note that your referencing should be 100 % correct right from the start.