Thesis, major paper, and major project proposals

In the simplest of terms, the methodology section in a proposal explains the research design and methods you'll use to complete your research, and why you chose that approach. In other words, if someone else wants to replicate your study to achieve the same results, what would they need to do, and how do you know that your approach is the best way to complete the research?

The methodology section can include (but isn't limited to):

• A description of the research design and methods
• A description of data-gathering instruments
• Methods of data collection
• Ethical considerations
• Analysis strategies and techniques
• Potential participants
• Rationale for your choice of methodological choices
• How the methodology is appropriate for the organization or participants
• The advantages and disadvantages of the methodology
• References to scholarly literature that support the chosen research design and methods

If you are unsure if including the methodology is required in your thesis, major project, or research paper proposal, please consult with your instructor or advisor.

This information regarding the methodology section of a proposal was gathered from RRU thesis and major project handbooks, current in 2020, from programs in the Faculty of Social and Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Management, and the College of Interdisciplinary Studies. If the details here differ from the information provided in the handbook for your project, please follow the handbook's directions.

Image credit: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Data Analysis and Interpretation

• In SAGE Research Methods Project Planner; access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

Data Collection

• In SAGE Research Methods Project Planner; access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

How Do I Write About Theory?

• In SAGE Research Methods: Writing Up; look for the How Do I Write About Theory? drop down option. Access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

How Do I Write My Methodology Section?

Research Ethics

• In SAGE Research Methods Project Planner; access via this link requires a RRU username and password.

Image credit: Image by Mohamed Assan from Pixabay