PROPOSAL Page 2

THE ESSANTIALS OF A PROPOSAL   Introduction OR Executive Summary   The introduction is the part of the paper that provides readers with the background information for the research reported in the paper. Its purpose is to establish a framework for the research, so that readers can understand how it is related to other research. Executive summary helps a busy manager or sponsor to understand the proposal quickly. In an introduction, the writer should   Ø      Create reader interest in the topic. Ø      Lay the broad foundation for the problem that leads to the study, Ø      Place the study within the larger context of the scholarly literature, and Ø      Reach out to a specific audience.   If a researcher is working within a particular theoretical framework/line of inquiry, the theory or line of inquiry should be introduced and discussed early, preferably in the introduction or literature review. Remember that the theory/line of inquiry selected will inform the statement of the problem, rationale for the study, questions and hypotheses, selection of instruments, and choice of methods. Ultimately, findings will be discussed in terms of how they relate to the theory/line of inquiry that undergrads the study. Theories, theoretical frameworks, and lines of inquiry may be differently handled in quantitative and qualitative endeavors.         Statement of the Problem   The problem statement describes the context for the study and it also identifies the general analysis approach. A problem might be defined as, "The issue that exists in the literature, theory, or practice that leads to a need for the study"   It is important in a proposal that the problem stand out—that the reader can easily recognize it. Sometimes, obscure and poorly formulated problems are masked in an extended discussion. In such cases, reviewers and/or committee members will have difficulty recognizing the problem. A problem statement should be presented within a context, and that context should be provided and briefly explained, including a discussion of the conceptual or theoretical framework in which it is embedded. Clearly and succinctly identify and explain the problem within the framework of the theory or line of inquiry that under girds the study. This is of major importance in nearly all proposals and requires careful attention. It is a key element that associations such as AERA and APA look for in proposals. It is essential in all quantitative research and much qualitative research.