Research Proposals

Research proposals are written to propose a research project and oftentimes request funding, or sponsorship, for that research. The research proposal is used to assess the originality and quality of ideas and the feasibility of a proposed project. The goal of the research proposal is to convince others that the investigator has (a) an important idea; (b) the skills, knowledge, and resources to carry out the project; and (c) a plan to implement the project on time and within budget. This entry discusses the process of developing a research proposal and the elements of an effective proposal.

For a graduate student, a research proposal may be required to begin the dissertation process. This serves to communicate the research focus to others, such as members of the student’s dissertation committee. It also indicates the investigator’s plan of action, including a level of thoroughness and sufficient detail to replicate the study. The research proposal could also be considered as a contract, once members of the committee agree to the execution of the project.

To be considered for funding, research proposals may be solicited or unsolicited. Solicited proposals respond to a request with specified requirements from a request for proposals (RFP). Unsolicited proposals are submitted without a prior request. A letter of intent may be required or requested so that potential funders can review a brief abstract prior to the submission of a full proposal. A letter of intent assists the funding agency with gauging interest in the RFP and helps to identify the number of reviewers they may need to review the research proposals.

Requirements may vary for research proposals. Educational research proposals generally follow the same format as a research paper or journal article, including an abstract, introduction, literature review, method section, and conclusion. Investigators need to review the requirements for the targeted RFP carefully and follow the outline provided in the sponsor’s guidelines. A research proposal has to clearly and concisely identify the proposed research and its importance. The background literature should support the need for the research and the potential impact of the findings.

The method section proposes a comprehensive explanation of the research design, including subjects, timeline, and data analysis. Research questions should be identified as well as measurement instruments and methods to answer the research questions. Proposals for research involving human subjects identify how the investigators will protect participants throughout their research project. A proposed budget identifies and justifies the financial support needed for the proposal, including personnel, supplies, and indirect expenses, as well as institutional resources to demonstrate the capacity to successfully accomplish the proposed research.

Proposals often require engaging in an external review either by an external evaluator or advisory [Page 1414]board consisting of expert consultants in the field. References are included to provide documentation about the supporting literature identified in the proposal. Appendixes and supplemental materials may also be included, following the sponsoring organization’s guidelines. As a general rule, educational research proposals follow the American Psychological Association formatting guidelines and publishing standards. If funding is being requested, it is important for the proposal to identify how the research will benefit the sponsoring organization and its constituents.

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