How to Write a Research Proposal? Welcome to the Workshop Presentation on How to Write a Research Proposal? BAYES AHMED PhD Researcher, University College London, UK Date: 30 August 2014

What is a Research Proposal? A research proposal is a document of usually three to seven pages that informs others of a proposed piece of research. The purpose of the proposal is to help you to focus and define your research plans.

Client’s Satisfaction! Client = Supervisor or Funding Agency Every proposal scans for clear answers to three questions: What are we going to learn that we do not know now? Why it is worth knowing? How will we know that the conclusions are valid? ** Follow the Research Interests or Instructions (ToR)!

Structure of a Proposal Cover page Table of contents Background/ Problem Identification Need for the study/ Rationale Aim and objectives of the study Review of the literature Research design (methodology) Forming a team Timetable and Budget Significance/ Expected outcomes of the study Appendices References

Cover Page Proposed title (should be descriptive of focus, concise, and eye-catching) Your name and qualifications Department, university or institution the proposal is for

Table of Contents Use a hierarchy for titles and subtitles Use the numbering system as follows: 1; 1.1, 1.2...; 1.1.1, 1.1.2...; 1.1.1.1, 1.1.1.2...etc. (don't use more than four digits)

Background/ Problem Identification Answers the WHAT question May include historical, cultural, political, social or organizational information about the context May include personal motivation

Need for the Study/ Rationale Answers the WHY question May include reference to a ‘gap’ in the existing research literature The need to apply certain ideas in a new context The ways in which the study may be significant

Aim and Objectives of the Study The aim will represent the overall theme of the research The objective is expressed in terms of the broader context of the study The research questions (usually What, How, Why) – for each objective should be few, so that the focus is manageable

Review of the Literature This is not expected to be extensive for the proposal You should conduct an initial survey of the past/recent major theories to establish your directions Your review should be shaped by your argument based on your objectives

Research Design (Methodology) Answers the HOW question Includes rationale for selection of study area, methods of data collection and analysis, procedures you will use to ensure ethical practice, validity and reliability

Timetable and Budget This may take the form of a chart, timeline or flowchart Strictly follow the timeframe and total cost of the project At first; you have to form a project team (or independent researcher) and responsibilities Now break-down each activity and estimate the relevant costs (if applicable) Be realistic and don’t be over-ambitious!

New Knowledge/ Expected Outcomes ** May be excluded if the rationale for the study has been well developed earlier in the proposal

Appendices May include documents, pilot study material, maps, questions for interviews, survey instruments, explanatory statement to participants etc.

References Use the American Psychological Association (APA) Style Guide or conventions recommended by your supervisor/ funding agency or use ENDNOTE as appropriate

Checklist The proposal is expected to: Show that you are engaging in genuine enquiry Link your proposed work with the work of others Establish your methodological approach, and Show you have thought about the ethical issues

QUESTIONS? Thank You All

Research Theme-I Theme: Social Vulnerability to Landslides, Landslide Susceptibility Modelling; Early Warning System for Landslide Hazards Obligations: Incorporate both the Social and Technological issues! Form a team of max. 10 members! Timeframe: 18 Months Budget: 50 Lakh Taka