Introduction (1500 characters)
Provide some context on your program of study and background that leads to your capstone project idea. Discuss the importance of the issue or topic you plan to research.
State the overall goal or purpose of your capstone project and research question(s) in a clear and concise manner.
Literature Review (4000 characters)
Thoroughly discuss previous research that has been conducted on your topic by citing 15-20 credible academic sources such as peer-reviewed journal articles or books. Provide a synthesis of the key findings and themes from the literature.
Identify gaps in the existing research literature that your study would address or add to. Discuss how your project is innovative and important.
Research Methodology (3000 characters)
Clearly outline the research methods and design you plan to use such as interviews, surveys, case studies, experiments, etc. Provide a well thought-out rationale for choosing these particular methods.
Describe your targeted participants or subjects for the study and how you plan to recruit them. Discuss any ethical considerations that need to be addressed.
Explain in detail the data collection and analysis procedures you will use, such as surveys/interview scripts, observation protocols, statistical tests, coding strategies, etc. Discuss how you will ensure validity and reliability.
Potential Results (1500 characters)
Hypothesize some potential results and themes you could expect to emerge from your analysis based on the literature reviewed. Don’t present actual predicted results or conclusions but frame it as possibilities based on what is known from prior work.
Anticipated Discussion (3000 characters)
Discuss how you anticipate contributing new knowledge and insight on the topic based on your research findings. Explain how your study advanced understanding beyond the current literature.
Consider potential limitations and trustworthiness issues given your chosen methods and suggest ways future research could further address your topic.
Discuss implications of your work for practice, theory, and policy. Propose recommendations informed by your study.
Timeline & Resources (1000 characters)
Provide a detailed timeline outlining the major tasks and milestones to be completed within the parameters of your program to ensure success of the project.
Identify any necessary funds, materials, software, or personnel needed to conduct the study and discuss strategies for obtaining these resources.
Conclusion (1000 characters)
Briefly re-emphasize why this research is important and worthwhile to conduct. Restate the goals, significance, and innovation of the proposed capstone project to obtain approval.
I hope these extended tips on the key components to cover in a strong capstone project proposal provide a helpful outline to write a submission that effectively communicates your research idea and plan. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
Andrew Stroud