What is a research proposal?

The purpose of a research proposal is to identify and formulate questions that arise from nursing practice and to design a research project to study the identified problem. The goal of a research proposal is to present and justify a research idea you have and to present the practical ways in which you think this research should be conducted. Research proposals contain extensive literature reviews and must provide persuasive evidence that there is a need for the proposed research study. In addition to providing a rationale for the proposed research, a proposal describes detailed methodology for conducting the research consistent with requirements of the professional or academic field and a statement on anticipated outcomes and/or benefits derived from the study.

Directions

Write a research proposal using your clinical question formulated earlier in the course that was approved by your instructor. This may be either a qualitative or quantitative research proposal. Your proposal must include APA formatting. The proposal should be a 6–10 in length plus appendices cover page, and reference page.

Introduction

Clearly stated problem and purpose of the study
Independent and dependent variables
Definition of terms
Assumptions, hypothesis, or questions (depending on research type)

Theoretical Framework

Description of the theoretical framework to be utilized
Identification of the concepts to be explored
Rationale for choosing framework

Review of the Literature

At least four scholarly sources included
Appropriateness of the review and the proposal focus
Inclusion of primary or secondary sources

Methodology

Description of study type (quantitative or qualitative)
Description of study design
Rationale for the use of the selected design
Inclusion of sample size, type, sampling method, inclusion/exclusion criteria, setting, data collection method (instrument), and data collection process
Method for Protection of Human Subjects (consent)
Questionnaire and consent forms must be included as appendices

Data Analysis

Data analysis method is appropriate for study design.
Method of data analysis is clearly stated.
Method for displaying findings is stated.

Applicability to Nursing

Research focuses on a problem significant to nursing.
Research would contribute to nursing knowledge.
Proposal is complete so that another researcher could replicate the study.
Statement about areas of nursing that would benefit from this study.