What is it?
The research question and methods paper provides you the opportunity
to expand upon the knowledge you gained in SOC 331 in forming a research
question, performing empirical research using the library databases,
and APA style. In addition, this paper allows you to develop knowledge
around how best to employ an appropriate research method for your chosen
topic.
What is this assignment about?
This paper is your opportunity to demonstrate your ability to
critically think through the creation of a research question and
discussion of the methodology of your choosing. It will also provide you
with the opportunity to continue to expand your knowledge of APA style.
To successfully complete this assignment, include the following elements:
- A 6-8 page paper in APA style in which you create a
research question based on your topic of interest, but also related to
the disciplines within the behavioral sciences. - In this paper, create a research question and explain what specific
type of research method you would use if you were to conduct research to
answer your research question. Do not conduct any research. Be
sure to explain why you would choose this method and how it is better
than some of the other methods for answering your question. - In addition, discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your proposed research method,
and use citations from the textbook. This will be the “heart” of this
paper. Be sure to explain this section in detail and provide specific
examples. Relate the strengths and weaknesses to your topic, and how, as
a researcher, you would compensate for any weaknesses. - Keep in mind that research methods are not right or wrong, just
appropriate or not appropriate for answering the research question. - Explain the ethical considerations to keep in mind if you were to
conduct research on your chosen topic. How would you address
confidentiality and anonymity (Hint: You can’t have both)? How would you
protect your subjects or participants? - You will also be expected to briefly summarize and cite from a minimum of five (5) scholarly articles and the textbook.
Minimum means that you have met this requirement for the assignment,
which equates to a letter grade of C (satisfactory) for this rubric
category. - You may use other high quality non-scholarly sources.
- You may use any resources in this Canvas site.
- A good paper would “weave in” specific examples from all of your
sources into the text of your paper. Be sure to connect the scholarly
articles to what you have to say about your chosen research method.
How will learning to write a research methods paper help me in my future career?
In much of your professional life, you will be asked by your
supervisor, clients or funders: how is the program doing or what
can/should we do differently? While they may be interested in what you
think, they will very interested in what you know, especially if you can
back up your opinion with facts, literature based theory, statistics,
and/or logical reasoning. Anyone can have opinions, but those that
really matter are ones that are well-thought out, backed up by existing
literature, and developed through the deployment of rigorous research.
Being able to do research into a problem or evaluate an existing program
will distinguish you from those who cannot.
How do I write a good Research Proposal paper?
The best way to approach this assignment is to first create your
research question and then concentrate on finding your sources so that
you can see how others are researching your topic and the ethical
considerations surrounding it.
Next, spend the bulk of your time discussing how you would conduct
the research. A good place to start is to consider your methodology…will
you employ a Quantitative or Qualitative Methodology? Then, think
about data collection methods…i.e.: interviews, surveys, or
observations. Finish up by continuing to add details about your methods.
There is no need to reinvent the wheel. For example, if everyone who
does research on your topic is using case study methodology, that is a
huge clue that you should probably be using this methodology for your
paper. If you have any questions or need some guidance, please contact
your instructor.