A thesis is a systematic approach to investigating an educational problem that has application for the educational community in general. The thesis proposes an educational problem, a research question or questions, and a design that allows for empirical investigation. The findings are analyzed and reported once the investigation is completed.
The thesis proposal will vary in length depending on the study, but it will specify to the advisor and committee the research problem, question, design, methods of data collection, and analysis. The following outline may guide the proposal:
I. INTRODUCTION
- Statement of the problem
- Significance of the proposed study
- Research question(s) and/or hypothesis
- Definition of terms
- Assumptions and limitations of the study
II. LITERATURE REVIEW
- The reporting of the literature that frames the problem, research question, variables, research designs, or methods and interpretation
III. METHODOLOGY
- Subjects
- Measures
- Procedures
- Data analysis
- Limitations of the design
IV. REFERENCES
V. APPENDICES
- Data-gathering instruments (surveys, tests, interview questions)
- Informed consent/permission forms
