3: Guide to Writing A Descriptive Research Proposal

Prelim

STEP 1: Identify a Practical Topic

“The Influence of Binge-Watching Across Streaming Platforms on Individual Productivity and Lifestyle”

This is a good example of a descriptive research topic—it seeks to describe behavior patterns (binge-watching) and perceived impact on productivity and lifestyle.

STEP 2: Write the Introduction

This section clearly introduces:

• The popularity and accessibility of streaming services

• The phenomenon of binge-watching as a common behavior

• Its relevance to student routines and lifestyle choices
  

Tip: Your introduction should answer:

• What is the behavior or trend being described?

• Why is it worth exploring in the current digital context?

STEP 3: Establish the Need for the Study

“This study was conducted to identify the factors that contribute to binge-watching and how it affects their daily routines...”

This statement reflects the practical need for the study and highlights a common concern about time management and lifestyle.

STEP 4: Review of Related Literature

This section:

• Covers foreign studies on psychological and behavioral effects of binge-watching

• Cites local studies that support the context among Filipino students

• Defines constructs like binge-watching behavior, time management, and digital platforms

Tip: Aim for 5–8 sources total, mixing global and local perspectives.

STEP 5: Set Objectives and Scope

This section gives:

• A general objective (to determine the influence of binge-watching on productivity and lifestyle)

• Specific objectives, such as identifying platforms used and measuring behavior across demographic groups

Tip: Each specific objective must match a section of your survey.

STEP 6: Describe Research Questions (Descriptive Only)

Example questions:

• “What are the streaming platforms mostly used by students?”

• “How many hours do students spend on binge-watching per week?”

These are quantitative descriptive questions, with no hypothesis or causality.

STEP 7: Define Constructs and Variables

The study examines the following:

• Independent variables: Platform used, time spent, access level

• Dependent variables: Productivity, perceived health impact, lifestyle routines

A Likert scale was used to measure perceptions and habits.

STEP 8: Design the Survey Tool

• Use of Likert-type questions

• Sections for demographics, platform use, time, and behavioral impacts

Tip: Your survey should have at least 5 items per construct (e.g., 5 items to measure productivity, 5 for lifestyle).

STEP 9: Methodology Section (Descriptive Focus)

Breakdown:

• Participants: Students aged 18–24; sample size: 100+

• Sampling method: Convenience sampling

• Data Gathering: Google Forms; voluntary participation

• Analysis: Descriptive statistics only — frequency, mean, standard deviation

This sample correctly avoids inferential tests (e.g., no t-tests or regression).

STEP 10: Results Using Descriptive Statistics

The results are clearly presented in:

• Tables with Mean and Frequency (e.g., Platform usage frequency, hours spent watching)

• Narrative descriptions of trends (e.g., "Netflix was the most frequently used platform...")

Tip: Every table must be followed by 1–2 paragraphs explaining what the numbers mean.

STEP 11: Draw Insights and Recommendations

This section discusses:

• Summary of binge-watching patterns

• Productivity and lifestyle impact

• Recommended self-regulation strategies for students

The study successfully translates descriptive data into practical suggestions.

STEP 12: Format Properly and Use APA Citations

All cited works are listed in APA 7th format, including:

• Journal articles

• Online sources

• Books

Tip: Use hanging indent and alphabetical order.