Research Study Proposal Part 1

In this class, you will complete a Research Study Proposal. The Research Study Proposal is divided into three pieces:

• Research Study Proposal Part I, due in week 3
• Research Study Proposal Part II, due in week 5
• Research Study Proposal Final, due in week 8.

In this hypothetical research study proposal, you will investigate a social-psychological issue of your choice.

Requirements: Research Study Proposal Part 1

1. Proposed Topic
   1. Describe the study’s topic and focus (1-page minimum).
      1. This piece would include the statement of the problem and background information. Think of this piece as an introduction.

1. Research Question
   1. Develop a narrowly defined research question that clearly outlines what question you are seeking to answer to would add something new to the literature. You can find ideas for this by reviewing the researcher recommendations for future research; this is found at the end of research articles.
   2. You should only have a single research question that includes the variables you will be measuring.

1. Hypothesis/Hypotheses
   1. This should be a clear answer to your research question and should not be more than a single sentence long.
   2. This should include a hypothesis and a null hypothesis (1 sentence for each).
   3. Be sure that your null hypothesis is identical to your hypothesis with the exception of the word “NOT” added in.

1. Variables
   1. List each of the variables you plan to study in your research. These should be specific and measurable. They must also be clearly stated in your research question.

1. Participants (1/2 page minimum)
   1. Describe participant demographics (race, gender, age, religion, SES, area of the country in which they live, etc.).
      1. Each demographic must be individually explained and justified. A simple “Everyone can participate” will not be sufficient.
      2. Ensure that your sample will be reflective of the population you wish to study (i.e., population under study) and that you will be able to generalize your results to the overall population you are studying.
   2. Present the criteria that will be used to determine inclusion or exclusion from the study.
      1. What is the process for selecting/recruiting participants?
      2. What is the rationale for selecting them?

1. Sampling Method
   1. Discuss the proposed sampling method and the rationale for selecting it (1-page minimum).
   2. Include ethe number of participants you will have in your sample and a justification as to why you choose that specific number (i.e., this should be developed from and supported by previous research).

Your paper must also:

• Be a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 4 full pages, size 12 font, Times New Roman, double spaced with 1-inch margins, NOT including the Title and References pages.

• Be in APA 7th edition format, including a title page and reference page.

• Incorporate a minimum of five supportive peer-reviewed, scholarly citations and references to support content and conclusions.