Summary:
The Abstract
A brief (100 to 300 word) summary of the proposal.
Should include a condensed statement of the research problem and objectives.
The Introduction
Where you set the scene for what is to follow and capture the reader’s desire to read more.
Typically where you explain the who, what, why and how of the study.
Include the benefits that doing the study will provide.
Include definitions of key terms and concepts; state limitations of the proposed research.
Explains what will be covered in the proposal paper
Statement of the Problem
This is the key component of the proposal.
Describe the problem in detail and state why it is worthy of research.
Do not choose a problem that is too difficult or too easy.
Select a topic that you are acquainted with and know something about.
Your problem statement should:
Demonstrate a clear understanding of the problem you are attempting to solve
Clearly convey the focus of your project
Indicate the relationship of your project to a larger set of problems
Justify why your particular focus has been chosen
Demonstrate that your problem is feasible to solve
Make others want to read it further
Annotated bibliography
Include topic sentence.
Include at least seven journal articles in your annotated bibliography.
Then for each article, include paragraphs that address the following:
Explain what the article says. Summarize in your own words the main conclusions, arguments, and findings. DO NOT quote from the article.
Explain what theories are used in this article. If no theories are used, explain which theories are connected to the article topic. Don’t just list the theories; define them and explain how they are relevant.
Explain how the article informs a practice area of nonprofit administration.
Research Objectives [Bulleted list]
Research objectives are clear, concise, and explicit expressions of what you expect to discover from the findings of your research project.
Should flow naturally from the Problem Statement.
Objectives must be focused and logically explained.
They must reflect your ability to solve the real problem (work experience, track record, publish papers, etc.).
Objectives must be:
Specific: indicate precisely what you intend to achieve through your project.
Measurable: Clearly state what you plan to accept as proof of the project’s success.
Logical: State how each objective contributes to achieving your overall goal.
Don’t confuse your objectives (ends) with your methods (means).
A good objective emphasizes what will be done, whereas a method will explain why or how it will be done.
The Research Design and Methods
Say what you would do in technical terms.
Be specific about what research methodology you would use and why. Quantitative or qualitative?
Provide details of your proposed solutions to the problem and sub-problems.
Provide information for tasks such as sample selection, data collection, instrumentation, validation, procedures, etc.
Cite your method sources [the Hale & Brown book]
Purpose of the Research Design
Describes your project activities in detail.
Indicates how your objective will be accomplished.
The description should include the sequence, flow, and interrelationship of activities.
Tips for the Research Design
Begin with your objectives.
Describe the precise steps you will follow to carry out each objective, including what will be done and who will do it.
Keep asking and answering the “What’s next?” question.
Once you have determined the sequence of events, develop a time-and-task chart.
Conclusion
Summarizes what was covered in the entire paper.
References
Use up-to-date references.
Use only sources highly relevant to the problem.
Use the original source, not someone else’s copy.
Don’t include private communications.
Don’t cite support for common knowledge.