8/7/2019 Research Design Project

1/2

8/7/2019 Research Design Project

2/2

PS 372: Introduction to Political Analysis

2

Stage Two: Theory and Hypotheses 50 points (5-7 pages)

Develop a cohesive theory that offers an explanation for the research question. And, develop at leastone hypothesis that identifies empirical implications of the theory.

Follow the guidelines and parameters for appropriate theory and hypotheses, as discussed in class(review your notes):

o Through theory, develop a detailed story/argument as to a relationship betweenconcepts/variables. In other words, develop a causal story. Be specific and logical. Bring in

illustrations and examples where appropriate.

o Through hypotheses, identify empirical implications. In other words, what do you intend tospecifically observe out in the real world given the theory you outlined?

o Define the central concepts and variables that constitute the building blocks of yourtheory/hypotheses.

o Be generalizable. In the first few paragraphs, introduce your topic and research question. Try to grab the readers

attention, as you would in any paper, and demonstrate the importance of your topic. In subsequent paragraphs outline the theory and hypotheses that represent your attempt to provide an

answer to the research question.

When you develop the hypotheses, clearly identify the relevant dependent and independent variablesat issue and the type of relationship you expect between the variables (e.g. positive or inverse).

Stage Three: Research Design 75 points (10-15 pages)

Develop a full research design that includes the research question, theory, hypotheses, andoperationalization of the design. This final paper should include revisions to the previous two stages.

Also, it should constitute a cohesive paper that logically flows from the introduction to the conclusion.

As to operationalization of the research design, follow the guidelines and parameters discussed in class(review your notes):

o Identify the relevant dependent variable, and how it should be measured.o Identify the relevant independent variable, and how it should be measured.o Identify at least two control variables, and how they should be measured.o Identify, explain, and develop the type of research design that will best test the hypotheses you

have developed (e.g. experiment, time series, cross-sectional, etc.). Be specific here. For

example, if you decide to propose an experiment, explain how you would conduct the

experiment based upon the principles discussed and learned in class.

For the introductory paragraphs, introduce the topic, grab the readers attention, and introduce theresearch question. In other words, sell me on the importance and value of your topic. For the next portion of the paper, provide a revised explication of theory and hypotheses. For the later portion of the paper, operationalize a research design and explain why it is the most

appropriate way in which to test the theory/hypotheses.

For the conclusion, leave on a good note, but suggest some potential weaknesses in your design (noresearch design is perfect).