The research project will be on the gender differences in STEM: Using expectancy value theory to understand why women choose to pursue non-STEM degrees at university. The study will utilize a qualitative approach in the form of semi-structured interviews with women in the UK who are enrolled in non-STEM related courses, specifically firs st year psychology students. I have attached a file with extra information on the research project along with the interview questions. I have also provided a writing plan for the propsal below:
I. Introduction (Approximately 500 words)
A. Background
1. Brief overview of gender disparities in STEM
2. Significance of understanding women’s choices in STEM careers
B. Purpose of the Study
1. Explicit statement of the research problem
2. Introduction to the Expectancy-Value Theory as the theoretical framework
C. Research Questions
1. Clearly stated questions guiding the research
2. Connection between research questions and the Expectancy-Value Theory
D. Objectives of the Study
1. Outline specific goals and outcomes of the research
2. Justification for using a qualitative design and interviews
II. Literature Review (Approximately 1000 words)
A. Gender Disparities in STEM
1. Overview of existing literature on the underrepresentation of women in STEM
2. Key findings and trends
B. Expectancy-Value Theory
1. Explanation of the Expectancy-Value Theory
2. Previous applications of the theory in educational and career contexts
3. Relevance to understanding career choices in STEM
C. Factors Influencing Career Choices
1. Exploration of various factors impacting career decisions
2. Discussion on societal, educational, and individual influences
D. Existing Studies on Women in STEM
1. Review of qualitative research focusing on women’s experiences in STEM
2. Identification of gaps and areas for further exploration
III. Theoretical Framework (Approximately 500 words)
A. Explanation of the Expectancy-Value Theory
B. Rationale for choosing this theory for the study
C. How the theory aligns with the research questions
IV. Research Design and Methodology (Approximately 1000 words)
A. Qualitative Design
1. Explanation of the choice of a qualitative approach
2. Justification for using interviews as the primary data collection method
B. Participants
1. Description of the target population
2. Inclusion criteria for participants
C. Data Collection
1. Detailed explanation of the interview process
2. Discussion on how interviews will capture data related to Expectancy-Value Theory
D. Data Analysis
1. Overview of qualitative analysis methods
2. How the analysis will address the research questions
V. Ethical Considerations (Approximately 300 words)
A. Informed Consent
B. Anonymity and Confidentiality
C. Potential Risks and Benefits for Participants
D. Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval
VI. Significance of the Study (Approximately 300 words)
A. Contribution to Existing Knowledge
B. Practical Implications for Educational and Occupational Settings
C. Potential Policy Implications
VII. Timeline (Approximately 200 words)
A. Gantt chart or timeline outlining key milestones and deadlines
VIII. Limitations and Delimitations (Approximately 200 words)
A. Acknowledgment of potential constraints and scope of the study
IX. Conclusion (Approximately 200 words)
A. Recap of the research proposal
B. Reiteration of the importance of the study