Capstone Research Methods Project Report: Structure, Presentation & Assessment Criteria

Each student will conduct independent capstone research project on a topic of his/her choice. The project should demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, research skills, and the ability to develop and evaluate effective solutions to a practical problem. Learners will conduct research, gather, and analyze data, present their findings, and provide recommendations through presentations and reports.

This will include two components:

1. Written Report = 35%
2. Oral Presentation = 5%

Layout of the Capstone Research Project Report:

1. Executive Summary

A summary that should present the project in a clear and consistent way.

2. Table of contents (not included in final word count)

3. Introduction and Background Information for the Practical Research Problem

1. Introduce the capstone research topic and its significance.
2. Provide background information and context for the practical research problem.
3. Outline the specific objectives of the capstone research project.
4. Explain how these objectives will address the research question(s).
5. State the research question(s) clearly and concisely.

4. Literature Review (Theoretical Framework and Previous Research)

Theoretical Framework:

1. Discuss relevant theories and concepts related to the capstone research topic.
2. Explain how these theories provide a framework for understanding the research problem.

Previous Research:

1. Review existing literature on the capstone research topic.
2. Summarize key findings and identify gaps in knowledge.
3. Discuss how the current research project will contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

5. Methodology (Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis)

Research Design:

1. Describe the research design (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods).
2. Explain the rationale for choosing the specific research design.

Data Collection Methods:

1. Describe the data collection methods used (e.g., surveys, interviews, observations, experiments).
2. Explain the procedures for data collection.

Data Analysis:

1. Describe the methods used for data analysis (e.g., statistical analysis, thematic analysis).
2. Explain how the data will be analyzed to address the research questions.

6. Findings

Demonstration of Findings:

1. Present the research findings in a clear and concise manner.
2. Use tables, figures, and other visual aids to support the findings.
3. Discuss any unexpected findings or challenges encountered during the research.

7. Discussion (Interpretation of Findings, Limitations)

Interpretation of Findings:

1. Interpret the findings in relation to the research questions and objectives.
2. Discuss the implications of the findings for theory and practice.
3. Compare the findings to existing literature.

Limitations:

1. Acknowledge the limitations of the research.
2. Discuss any potential biases or shortcomings in the research design or methodology.

8. Conclusion (Summary and Recommendations)

Summary of Findings:

1. Summarize the key findings and conclusions of the research.
2. Reiterate the significance of the research.

Recommendations:

1. Provide recommendations for future research or practice based on the findings.
2. Discuss potential applications of the research findings.

9. References (not included in the word count)

Provide a complete list of all sources cited in the report. Your report should be referenced using APA style.