Applications of Process Oriented Research Frameworks
This is what you will learn during this class:
Understand the MRC Framework by explaining its phases and identifying where their research question fits within the framework.
Formulate and refine research questions that are clear, relevant, and aligned with their field of study.
Apply appropriate methods and methodologies for their research proposal, ensuring alignment with the MRC framework.
Collaborate and provide peer feedback through the "critical friend" peer review process, enhancing research proposals.
Draft and revise research proposals independently, integrating peer feedback into a coherent and well-structured document.
Create and present research findings through a clear and visually appealing PowerPoint presentation, demonstrating effective communication skills and the ability to respond to questions and feedback.
Step 1: In Class Assignment
Step 1a: Introduction (10 minutes)
Topic: Designing a plan for a research proposal using the MRC framework.
Handout with detailed instructions can be accessed here.
Step 1b: Independent Work on Research Proposal (60 minutes)
You will independently brainstorm and formulate a research question related to your field of study.
Place your research question within the appropriate MRC framework (or other framework) phase and justify your choice.
Identify and justify the methods and methodologies you would use.
Draft the proposal in a point form (maximum 2 pages of point form). Please keep this original document, as it will be used for your assignment.
Step 2: Break (10 minutes)
Step 3a: Introduction to Critical Friend Format (10 minutes)
Explain the concept of "critical friend" format for peer review.
Organize students into pairs for peer review.
Step 3b: Peer Review and Feedback (60 minutes: 30 minutes per student)
Exchange your research proposals with your partners.
Provide constructive feedback focusing on clarity, feasibility, MRC framework alignment, and appropriateness of selected methods and methodologies.
PLEASE KEEP NOTES ABOUT THE FEEDBACK (this will be part of your homework)
Discuss feedback and suggest improvements.
Step 4: Debrief (10 minutes)
Summarize key takeaways from the lesson.
Highlight the importance of research question formulation, MRC framework alignment, and method/methodology selection.
Address any final questions from students.
Objective:
Develop skills in formulating research questions, applying the MRC framework, and selecting appropriate methods and methodologies.
Instructions:
Research Proposal Revision:
Revise and refine the research proposal based on peer feedback (please provide the original as well). Final product should not be more than 3 pages, and as narrative (not point form).
Ensure the proposal includes:
A clearly formulated research question.
Placement within the appropriate MRC framework phase, with justification.
Selection and justification of methods and methodologies.
Summary of comments and responses to your peer review from the class assignment.
Submit the written assignment electronically on Canvas. This assignment will be graded by the course instructor.
Note: Due Monday, September 23rd. However, I set aside time on Friday for mariign if you would like earlier feedback.
Presentation:
Summarize the key components of the research proposal in a 10-minute presentation.
Create visually appealing slides with clear and concise content.
Submission:
Submit slides electronically to this folder by next Monday.
Additional Readings
MRC Framework:
Craig, P., Dieppe, P., Macintyre, S., Michie, S., Nazareth, I., & Petticrew, M. (2008). Developing and evaluating complex interventions: The new Medical Research Council guidance. BMJ, 337, a1655. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.a1655
Moore, G. F., Audrey, S., Barker, M., Bond, L., Bonell, C., Hardeman, W., ... & Baird, J. (2015). Process evaluation of complex interventions: Medical Research Council guidance. BMJ, 350, h1258. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h1258
Critical Friend Peer Review:
Costa, A. L., & Kallick, B. (1993). Through the lens of a critical friend. Educational Leadership, 51(2), 49-51.
Research Methodologies:
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2017). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Research Proposal Development:
Locke, L. F., Spirduso, W. W., & Silverman, S. J. (2014). Proposals that work: A guide for planning dissertations and grant proposals (6th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Presentation Skills:
Reynolds, G. (2011). Presentation Zen: Simple ideas on presentation design and delivery (2nd ed.). New Riders.