Learning Outcome 1: Formulate an appropriate research question that reflects an issue within the subject area of their programme
Learning Outcome 2: Design a programme of research and investigation that can be undertaken within a given resource envelope to master`s level
Learning Outcome 3: Develop a research methodology suitable for conducting an Independent Study
Learning Outcome 4: Evaluate source material critically using research design concepts and assess the contribution of their research to existing theoretical frameworks
Learning Outcome 5: Construct a relevant Ethical Approvals Form consistent with EPSRC principles of ethical research practices
Title - Research Proposal
Assessment Task and Purpose:
The research proposal is a crucial element of the MSc dissertation, serving as a basis for faculty decision-making and guiding early research activities and supervisor discussions. While not prescriptive, these guidelines aim to facilitate the evaluation of MSc thesis proposals. All proposals seek to address fundamental questions about the intended research: What is the research focus? Why is it necessary? Who else has tackled similar issues, and what were their conclusions? How will the research be conducted? What is the anticipated significance of the findings?
In essence, the proposal should encompass the research question, scope of study, methodology, and expected outcomes. Students will engage in various in-class activities, both individually and in groups, to explore different research approaches for their dissertation theme, culminating in the creation of an individual "extended" research proposal following specific guidelines.
The proposal should include the following elements:
Working Title: Initiate with a provisional working title that is descriptive, concise, and informative, yet not overly restrictive. Craft a title that captivates readers` interest and predisposes them favorably toward the proposal.
Research Problem: Clearly articulate the objectives of the proposed research and its significance. Define the issue or problem to be explored, emphasizing key areas of investigation. Justify the importance of the problem and its exploration, while also delineating the research scope to ensure feasibility.
Research Question(s); Aims and Objectives: Present succinct research questions to guide the investigative process. These questions should serve as a focal point for the research and may help formulate tentative propositions. Carefully formulate objectives, limiting them to three or four specific actions or goals that support the overarching aim.
Context for the Research: Explore how existing work has influenced or informed the research questions. Explain the relevance of the topic to both personal interest and the broader research community. Situate the proposal within the context of relevant prior research, demonstrating familiarity with pertinent theories, works, and practices.
Potential Research Methodology: Describe the methods, approaches, and procedures best suited to address the research problem or questions. Justify the chosen framework—whether practical, experimental, conceptual, or theoretical—and explain its relevance to the research objectives.
Anticipated Research Outcomes: Provide a clear overview of the expected products or outcomes of the research. Explain how the research will contribute to existing knowledge, either by filling gaps, reinterpreting, re-contextualizing, or extending understanding within the research domain.
Provisional Timeline: Outline the proposed stages of the research project, mindful of the 16-week dissertation duration. Utilize a Gantt Chart to specify goals, milestones, and estimated timeframes for completing each component of the work.
Bibliography: Include a working bibliography formatted according to academic standards, showcasing up-to-date scholarship in the subject area. This bibliography should extend beyond the references cited in the proposal, demonstrating the breadth of prior research and indicating the project`s parameters.
Upon completing the proposal, reflect on the following questions: