Introduction to Research and Research Proposal
PSUL 1998: Information Resources (IR101) - Lecture 1 Notes: Introduction to Research and Research Proposal
Understanding Research
Definition of Research
Research is formally defined as: "A systematic investigation (i.e., the gathering and analysis of information) designed to develop or contribute to generalisable knowledge." Simply put, research is the process of discovering new knowledge.
The Cyclical Process of Scientific Research
Research is conducted through a systematic investigation, which is a continuous and iterative process:
Hypothesis Formulation: A testable assumption or idea is initially formed.
Research Methods Design: Appropriate methodologies are developed to test the hypothesis.
Data Collection and Analysis: Information relevant to the hypothesis is gathered and rigorously analyzed.
Results Summarization: Findings from the analysis are condensed into one or more research conclusions.
Dissemination to Scientific Community: These conclusions are then shared with peers and the broader scientific community.
Contribution to Existing Knowledge: The shared conclusions add to the collective body of scientific understanding.
Evidence for New Questions: The findings serve as evidence that can lead to the formation of additional questions, initiating the cycle anew.
This cyclical nature is fundamental, as it enables continuous progress in scientific research over extended periods, fulfilling the true purpose of research.
Nature of Discovered Knowledge
The new knowledge discovered through research can manifest in two ways:
Development of New Concepts: Creation of entirely novel ideas or frameworks.
Advancement of Existing Knowledge and Theories: Building upon or refining current understanding and theories, leading to fresh insights not previously established.
Why Research is Essential
Core Purpose
The primary purpose of research is to deepen our understanding of the world and to identify how this knowledge can be practically applied to improve everyday life. It is an indispensable component of problem-solving.
Key Objectives
Research aims to:
Identify what is already known about a subject.
Discover what is not yet known.
Determine what can be developed further based on existing and new knowledge.
This continuous exploration allows scientists to innovate, leading to the development of new theories, groundbreaking ideas, and revolutionary products that significantly influence and shape our society and daily experiences.
The Research Proposal: Your First Step
If you intend to conduct research, the very first step you should take is to write a research proposal.
What is a Research Proposal?
A research proposal is a critical document with multiple functions:
Persuasive Tool: It serves as a persuasive instrument designed to convince potential funders, who may not be familiar with the researcher, that the proposed project is worthy of financial support.
Contractual Basis: Upon receiving an award, the proposal frequently becomes an integral part of a contract. Therefore, researchers must be meticulous and realistic about the promises made within the document.
Action Plan: It explicitly details what the researcher intends to do and when these actions will be carried out.
Project Overview: It provides a comprehensive outline of the entire research process, summarizing all information relevant to the proposed project.
Contribution Emphasis: A key aspect of a research proposal is its emphasis on the unique and significant contribution the proposed research will make to its specific field of study.
Purpose of a Research Proposal (for Candidates)
For candidates, preparing a research proposal ensures that they:
Have executed sufficient preliminary reading and research within their area of interest.
Have critically considered the issues involved and are capable of offering more than a generic description of their planned research topic.
Common Types of Research Proposals
There are several distinct types of research proposals, each serving a specific context and purpose:
1. Solicited Proposals
Nature: These proposals are submitted in direct response to a specific call or solicitation issued by a sponsor.
Examples of Solicitations: Often referred to as Request for Proposals (RFP) or Request for Quotations (RFQ).
Requirements: They typically adhere to highly specific requirements regarding both their format and technical content.
Researcher's Role: Researchers responding to solicited proposals must meticulously tailor their submissions to align with the sponsor's program guidelines and explicit expectations.
2. Unsolicited Proposals
Nature: These proposals are submitted to a sponsor without a prior, specific solicitation.
Initiation: The investigator proactively submits the proposal, believing that the sponsor has a genuine interest in the subject matter, even without an official request.
3. Pre-proposals
Purpose: Sponsors may request pre-proposals to minimize the applicant's time and effort in preparing a full, comprehensive proposal.
Format: They usually take the form of a letter of intent, a brief abstract, or a concept paper.
Process: After reviewing the pre-proposal, the sponsor informs the investigator whether a full proposal is warranted and should be submitted.
4. Continuation Proposals
Purpose: These proposals are submitted to request funding for the subsequent year within a multi-year grant project.
Content: They generally include:
A detailed progress report outlining achievements to date.
An updated budget for the upcoming funding period.
Other pertinent materials such as research results, reprints of publications, etc.
Sometimes, a financial status report showing the balance from the current year's funding.
Dependency: Continued financial support is typically contingent upon satisfactory work progress and the ongoing availability of funds.
5. Renewal Proposals
Purpose: These proposals seek continued support for an existing project that is nearing its scheduled termination date.
Similarity to New Proposals: Renewal proposals are processed and approved in a manner similar to entirely