Clearly identify the variables of your study as stated in your research question(s) and provide an operational definition for each variable.
Indicate how data for each one of these variables will be collected (including source of data, available range, and so forth)
If applicable, indicate the independent and dependent variables and identify any covariates.
Determine types and level of measurement of all variables (categorical or quantitative). For categorical variables specify the number of categories.
determine the most appropriate statistical test for your research questions, (i.e., degree of relationship, group differences, prediction of group membership, or structure.)
Identify the appropriate statistical test(s) for your research question(s).note that this process will be refined further when you begin defining specific hypotheses for each research question.
Research Design;
Data Processing and Analysis;
Limitations, Delimitation, and Methodological Assumptions.
In Research Design, you need to explain your research method (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed) and briefly elaborate the specific type (e.g., phenomenology, comparative, correlational, and so forth) and the reason why the design is appropriate given the purpose of the study. In this section, you will also need to elaborate on the type of data that you will obtain in order to conduct your research as well as the sample size.
Explain where and how you will obtain the data for your research. If applicable, you may add a subsection on surveys and instruments that will be used in your research.
Briefly discuss issues related to validity and reliability of surveys and instruments that will be used in your research.
In Data Processing and Analysis, describe the specific method of analysis. For quantitative studies, provide the statistical method to be employed and list the key assumptions for the chosen technique. For qualitative studies, explain the details of the chosen method of analysis.
In the section titled, Limitations, Delimitations, and Methodological Assumptions, provide a brief explanation of any limitations or issues related to the study, including, but not limited to potential weaknesses related to validity, data collection, and so forth. Also discuss the scope of data and the delimitation of your research.