Choosing the Methodology for a Capstone Project

Choosing the Methodology for a Capstone Project

In a 2-3 page paper (500 - 750 words) written in APA format, complete the following assignment: Select a methodology design (quantitative or qualitative). Defend why you selected this design and discuss how it supports your thesis or project.

If you have chosen to complete a research study for your capstone process then you will need to consider the question of whether you wish to do a qualitative or quantitative (or in rare circumstances a mixed method) study. The information below will help you in making this decision. The decision is based on the topic you have selected. As you consider the topic, ask yourself how will the question(s) I want to answer with my research best be answered, through a quantitative or qualitative study? In addition to considering the information that follows, please feel free to consult the instructors in your program and me. This decision is another very important one so take the time necessary to make a deliberate choice.

You will need to comment on the following areas in the paper that you send in for the Evidence of Completion of Step 3:

Participants, Materials, Design, Procedure, and Timeline.

1. Introduction: Include in this section a restatement of your purpose and introduce what you will say in the methodology chapter.

2. Participants: Describe the participants in your study or project, including who they will be, how many there will be, and how they will be selected.

3. Materials: Describe the materials, measures, equipment, or stimuli to be used in the study or project. This may include testing instruments, technical equipment, books, organizational procedures or equipment, images, or other materials used in the course of the study or project.

4. Design: Describe the type of design to be used in the study or project (qualitative or quantitative). Specify the variables measured as well as the levels of these variables.

5. Procedure: The next part of your method section should detail the procedures to be used in your study or project. Explain what you will have participants do, how you will collect data, and the order in which steps will occur.

6. Work Plan with Timetable: It is important that the proposal include a work plan of how the study or project will be completed. Describe in detail what you plan to do until completion of your thesis study or project. Use a table format. In one column list the steps involved in your project or study. In the other column indicate dates when you plan to complete each step.

B. Information for those who have chosen a Project

For those who have chosen to complete a project for the capstone process, there are a number of methodology considerations. You will need to determine the following related to methodology and include this in the paper you will submit as evidence of completion of Step 3:

1. what need the proposed project will fill

2. who will be served by the proposed project

3. participants in the proposed project and how you obtain informed consent

4. start date for the proposed project

5. timeline for the proposed project

6. a detailed outline of the steps involved in the proposed project

7. target date for completion of the proposed project 8. anticipated outcome of the proposed project