Research Proposal Evaluation
Your task in this Forum for POLS 500 is to evaluate a student-submitted research proposal (attached). For each section of the research proposal provide both positive aspects and points to consider based on the knowledge you have gained from this class. Some points to consider when evaluating the research proposal: The goal of a research proposal is to present and justify a research idea you have and to present the practical ways in which you think this research should be conducted. Research proposals must provide persuasive evidence that there is a need for the research study being proposed. In addition to providing rationale for the proposed research, a proposal describes detailed methodology for conducting the research consistent with requirements of the professional or academic field and a statement on anticipated outcomes and/or benefits derived from the study. Some Questions to Consider When Evaluating a Research Proposal Is the title clear and concise? Is the research question or hypothesis appropriate and answerable? Is the proposed primary data collection reasonable at this stage? Is the bibliography correct? Has the proposal been spell-checked? Is it grammatically correct? Does it look professional? Common Mistakes to Avoid Failure to be concise; being "all over the map" without a clear sense of purpose. Failure to develop a coherent and persuasive argument for the proposed research. Failure to stay focused on the research question; going off on unrelated tangents. Sloppy or imprecise writing. Poor grammar. Too much detail on minor issues, but not enough detail on major issues. 600 words plus please Please review the attached Forum Rubric before posting so there are no surprises in scoring.
Thesis is clearly defined and very well-constructed. Student builds upon thesis with well-documented supporting facts, figures, and examples throughout.
Proficient command of subject matter. Impressive ability to relate course content to practical examples. Comprehensive analysis of facts and concepts in logical sequence.
High level of critical thinking. Strategic approach to problem solving. Draws logical conclusions not obvious. Well-supported reflection with variety of current views. Presents intellectual development of ideas.
Excellent grammar and word usage. Clear and concise writing. Error-free and reflects ability to publish in peer-reviewed journal.
Research Proposal Evaluation
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Purpose Statement
The aim of the paper, as suggested by the topic, is to investigate the influence that political parties have on the amount of foreign aid that the U.S. gives to other countries. However, the purpose statement is a bit confusing because it does not restate this aim clearly. The statement that the research aims "to explore the relationship between foreign aid distribution and political parties" does not clearly state the cause-effect relationship between variables. It is easy to misinterpret this statement and concluded that you are also exploring how foreign aid affects parties, yet this is not your intention. It is recommendable, therefore, to restate the purpose statement and make it clear that you are exploring the ways in which political parties influence foreign aid policies.
Secondly, I think that the use of "political parties" as a variable is a bit too general. What about using an institution, such as Congress? In this case you’ll be exploring how Congress influences foreign aid policies? Just a thought. Otherwise, besides the need to reword the aim of the research, the research statement is well articulated and identifies an issue of interest.
Hypothesis
The writer uses a null hypothesis, which is appropriate for this kind of research. This is because he is going to collect evidence to prove or disapprove his tentative guess.
Research Questions
The research questions are relevant as they cover areas of interest to the paper’s overall aim. However, the author can improve this question by posing more focused questions, such as" "In what ways do Congress/political parties influence foreign aid through legislation? Are there differences between Democratic and Republican governments in the amount of spending on foreign aid?
Significance of the Study
Recognizing the importance of this section, the author outlined a number of reasons why the study is necessary. He states that this research is important as it addresses an issue of great significance to the U.S. citizens and government with respect to how taxpayers’ money is spent. However, there are a number of i...