Qualitative research in education /AN

For Assignment Two Option One you are required to prepare a research proposal for conducting qualitative research.
Your research proposal is one that you are likely to use as the basis for a master’s level thesis. As part of your proposal you must state your intention for the research (e.g. for master’s level thesis, professional inquiry paper or professional interest).
As part of your research proposal you will need to consider:
1. The topic and proposed research methodology (e.g. case study approach)
2. Your research questions/objectives/boundary of investigation
3. A brief literature review of the content (topic e.g. science education) and research design (e.g. case study) (About 2 pages expected on each of the content and research design)
4. Descriptions of the proposed data gathering tools and reasons for using these (e.g. strengths of using group interviews), likely data analysis
5. A realistic timeframe for conducting the investigation
6. Any ethical considerations for your topic, methodology and likely setting
7. The role of researcher (such as extent of participation, access/privacy matters, conflicts of interest…)
8. Likely arising issues, and
9. Possible outcomes, implications of the research
Note: If you wish, you may include interview schedules or actual tools in an appendix. This is optional
To follow is a suggested assignment format for your proposal: (you devise relevant subheadings as and where required):
1. Title
2. Brief Introduction
3. Background and statement of the problem (this in the light of a thorough literature review)
4. Research question or hypothesis, aim and objectives
5. Study design (type of study)
6. Study population and sampling
7. Data collection methods and instruments
8. Data analysis methods – if applicable statistical planning must be fully addressed, or the candidate should provide evidence that statistics are not required.
9. Mechanisms to assure the quality of the study – e.g. control of bias, safe storage of data
10. Study period – Timetable for completion of the project
11. Participants in the study – all people involved in the study, and the role they play, should be identified
12. Ethical considerations
13. Resources required for the study, including budget if applicable
14. References
15. Appendices (copy of questionnaire, consent forms etc.)