The purposes of this tutorial are:

Step 1: Develop an understanding of an issue, identifying and reading and summarizing relevant literature, developing your own position on the problem.

Step 2: Create a linear argument that takes the reader of your proposal from knowing little about your topic to enthusiasm for your project.

Step 3: Pre-write and draft. Don't feel frustrated after 15-20 drafts.

Step 4: Write the proposal using the following six parts.

Part I. Introduction.

The first step is to summarize the broader concepts and issues related to your topic in order to place your subject in broader context. Then, you must present the main research question. A suggestion from Michael Watts is to create a "Powerful Opening:" "Get straight to the point; do not drift around in some aimless way. The opening paragraph is your first salvo. You must have a way of encapsulating in a few sharp, snappy sentences what this project is about."

For more details check this Site .

Part II. Problem Statement

In this section, define and present the issue in order to frame specific questions. This section builds on the context established in the introduction section. From here, the writer must develop the rationale for the dissertation by explaining the importance of the problem and the need to conduct research within the established context. Some questions you might consider:

Does the dissertation deal with a significant and meaningful problem that lends itself to a substantial research effort?

Is the problem of interest to other scholars or practitioners in the field?

Has a persuasive case been made as to why the problem is worth solving?

Is it clear who or what will be aided by the research findings?

Will the findings provide a basis for generalized conclusions or have practical applicability?

Is the intention of the research expressed clearly?

Are the research questions stated concisely and explicitly in question form?

Are they precise, specific, and focused?

Do they flow logically from the problem?

Are the hypotheses, when applicable, well formulated and lucidly articulated?

Do they pose a relationship between or among measurable variables that is subject to testing?

Are the assumptions that frame the inquiry explicated fully?

Are the limitations of the study identified with recognition of their consequences?

Are discrepancies in the study dealt with positively and candidly?

Are technical terms well defined? Are the definitions clear-cut, unambiguous, and comprehensible?

Does the dissertation clearly address some aspect of social change?

What aspect has been addressed?

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Part III. Conceptual Framework.

Begin with the theoretical framework, and provide key constructs. Define specific terms and how you will use them, and then model what you think is going on. For example, if your topic is related to Cooperative Learning in post secondary education, you must establish a base of educational theory, develop cooperative learning-specific theory, define all important terminology and which of the varying interpretations you will use, and ultimately, define in your terms precisely what cooperative learning is and does.

For additional help in just how to achieve these goals, see:

http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/DissPropWorkshop/nuts&bolts/concepts&terms.html

http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/DissPropWorkshop/process/objectives.html.

Part IV. Methods

State clearly what you plan to do and why. Then discuss how your methods link to the conceptual framework and why. In other words, how does your research methodology serve to answer your research questions. The follwoing article adds some depth to this discussion: http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/DissPropWorkshop/nuts&bolts/design.html

Part V. Bibliography

Creating a bibliography is self-explanatory. Students should begin their bibliography as soon as they begin taking courses in order to catalogue works used throughout the breadth of their educational experience. Works reviewed early during the pursuit of the degree can propel a student into the works referenced within them. A bibliography should always be a work in progress as new information is published and other information becomes irrelevant as research questions change over time. Ultimately, it is easier to subtract those references not needed.

Part VI. Appendices

Appendices should be included as needed to support and define research as well as support the final project. Appendices will generally include surveys (including drafts), other research data (as required) and a timeline in order to manage the entire dissertation project itself. For a good sample timeline see: http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/DissPropWorkshop/nuts&bolts/timeline.html

Links:

These links also contain guidance and tips on dissertation and proposal writing.

The Claremont Graduate University Writing Center, Claremont, CA

Indiana University School of Education, Bloomington, IN

Prof. Chris M. Golde, Dept. of Educational Administration, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Dissertation Proposal Workshop, Institute of International Studies, UC Berkley (with sample proposals)

DissPropWorkshop/ Guide to Writing Thesis and Dissertation Proposals, Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA