Dissertation Prospectus
Success Factor of Minnesota Somalia Business Owners Sustainability for over 6 Years or More
Prospectus Instructions:
1. Read the entire Prospectus Template to understand the requirements for writing your prospectus. Each section contains a narrative overview of what should be included in the section and a table with required criteria for each section. WRITE TO THE CRITERIA, as they will be used to assess the prospectus for overall quality and feasibility of your proposed research study.
2. As you draft each section, delete the narrative instructions and insert your work related to that section. Use the criterion table for each section to ensure that you address the requirements for that particular section. Do not delete/remove the criterion table as this is used by you and your committee to evaluate your prospectus.
3. Prior to submitting your prospectus for review by your chair or methodologist, use the criteria table for each section to complete a realistic self-Assessment, inserting what you believe is your score for each listed criterion into the Learner Self-Assessment column. This is an exercise in self-Assessment and critical reflection, and to ensure that you completed all sections, addressing all required criteria for that section.
4. The scoring for the criteria ranges from a 0-3 as defined below. Complete a realistic and thoughtful Assessment of your work. Your chair and methodologist will also use the criterion tables to evaluate your work.
5. Your Prospectus should be no longer than 6-10pages when the tables are deleted.
Score Assessment
0 Item Not Present
1 Item is Present. Does Not Meet Expectations. Revisions are Required: Not all components are present. Large gaps are present in the components that leave the reader with significant questions. All items scored at 1 must be addressed by learner per reviewer comments.
2 Item is Acceptable. Meets Expectations.Some Revisions May Be Required Now or in the Future. Component is present and adequate. Small gaps are present that leave the reader with questions. Any item scored at 2 must be addressed by the learner per the reviewer comments.
3 Item Exceeds Expectations. No Revisions Required.Component is addressed clearly and comprehensively. No gaps are present that leave the reader with questions. No changes required.
Dissertation Prospectus
Introduction
The city of Minnesota is emerging as an immigrant receiving state. This is because it is receiving high numbers of immigrant each year. This city has a well-developed industry of social-service. It has many social development programs that are based on state-aid. This city has many jobs for unskilled people that also suit the refugee community in this city (Golden, S. et al. (2010). Due to the migration, the majority of migrant societies have limited potentiality for purchasing products . In this situation, the regular sales of any product in the market may not get survival due to the limited life cycle . Further, the life of the people in the city of Minnesota is not so easy due to their poverty level. In fact, the report of Minnesota State Demographic Center presented by Hirsi (2017) states that Somali remains are at the lowest step of the socioeconomic ladder. This is because that approx 57% Somalis still live in poverty and 26% are living in near-poverty.
In the word of Kokodoko (2006), living facilities for the Somali are not very attractive in the city due to the high crime rate. But it cannot be ignored that the growing population of the African American population in Minnesota City over the last decade is a major factor behind the growth in the demand for the services and goods Neville, F., Orser, B., Riding, A., & Jung, O. (2014). Due to this reason, entrepreneurship is flourishing in response to the growing demands of the people. Further, the growth of small business in the city also encourages the people of other communities to enter into business since the success of entrepreneurs can help in building wealth, creating jobs and attracting new opportunities. But the welfare package for Amazon affected the success hope of the local business owner (Du, 2017). As per their soft natu re, the Somali are likely to face the existing challenges in the city that is threatening to block their success path . For this, the people are raising their voice to conduct the reforms in business policies (Bonahoom, 2018) to address some hurdles. To address this situation, the organizations in the city have started to develop a network which helps business owners to achieve objectives and goals in existing business ventures (Chambers, 2017). Hence, the research related to this topic is needed as it focuses towards the issues that are faced by the business owners in Minnesota and which can affect their success in the market. This research study also investigated the factors that can help the business owners to survive in Minnesota. The existing research studies are only reflecting towards the business to business connective to manage the demand of the people that is not very effective for the success of business owners in the market. In this context, the research study of Mikkelson (2017) and Stofferahn, J. (2017) describe the need to conduct more research study to find the factors that can help the Somalis to improve business functions and get growth . As their research study of Mikkelson (2017) explores the problems related to increment in tax for insurance to employees and Cassia L., Minola T. (2012) defines the need to focus towards the small businesses in Minnesota due to their expected growth aspects in the future.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair Assessment Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
Introduction
This section briefly overviews the research focus or problem, why this study is worth conducting, and how this study will be completed.
The recommended length for this section is two to three paragraphs.
1. Dissertation topic is introduced along with why the study is needed. 2 1
2. Provides a summary of results from the prior empirical research on the topic. 2 1
3. Using results, societal needs, recommendations for further study, or needs identified in three to five research studies (primarily from the last three years), the learner identifies the stated need, called a gap. 2 1
4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This Introduction section elaborates on the Topic from the 10 Strategic Points. This Introduction section provides the foundation for the Introduction section in Chapter 1 of the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Background of the Problem
This research study focuses towards the success factors for the survival of the Somali business owners for over 6 years or more. This problem will be addressed in this research study that was basically ignored in the earlier researches because of the narrow focuses of the researchers towards the involvement of the business owners in the business. In this context, this research study will describe those factors that are basically valuable and important for the Somali business owners to survive in the market of the Minnesota city. The existing gap is established because the researchers were only considered the poverty and other social issues to define the living status of the Somali people but they never look towards the local supports and the infrastructure support by the local governing bodies and US to the small business owners in Minnesota for
addressing the growing demands of the people . Therefore , the living standards of the Somali people in Minnesota is well known but the Somali business owners will survive in the market for over next 6 years or more is unknown . Hence, this situation gives the reason for the researcher to conduct this research study to address the gap in the literature. But research study conducted by Besser, T. L. (2012) only shows their concerns towards the poor social infrastructure that is available to the Somali people. It means the recent research studies have some limitations which take place due to limited available information that does not allow them to consider the survival situation of the Somali business owners.
Somali community people have left their country due to the internal war and life threats to ensure the secure life style in the other part of the world. Due to this, they have reached the Minnesota city that has some similar culture . Further, the effect of the immigration from one country to the other has also impacted poorly on the Somali people . As a result, most of the community people are still living in poverty. This is a main reason that gives a basis for raising the problem which has been addressed in this research study.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
Background of the Problem
This section uses the literature to provide the reader with a definition and statement of the research gap and problem the study will address. This section further presents a brief historical perspective of when the problem started and how it has evolved over time.
The recommended length for this section is two-three paragraphs.
1. Includes a brief discussion demonstrating how literature has established the gap and a clear statement informing the reader of the gap. 2 1
2. Discusses how the “need” or “defined gap” has evolved historically into the current problem or opportunity to be addressed by the proposed study (citing seminal and/or current research). 2 1
3. ALIGNMENT: The problem statement for the dissertation will be developed from and justified by the “need” or “defined gap” that is described in this section and supported by the empirical research literature published within the past 3-5 years. 2 1
4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This Background of the Problem section uses information fromtheLiterature Review in the 10 Strategic Points. This Background of the Problem section becomes the Background of the Study in Note, this section develops the foundation for Chapter 1 in the Proposal. It is then expanded to develop the comprehensive Background to the Problem section and Identification of the GAP sections in Chapter 2 (Literature Review) in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Theoretical Foundations/Conceptual Framework and Review of the Literature/Themes
Foundation/Conceptual Framework for the research study:
For conducting a research study in a proper manner, the formulation of the conceptual framework is an important step as it gives the base to research study. As a result, research can be able to consider each related aspect which is important and needed to conduct research related to Somali business owners in an effective manner.
Business Success Factors:
In the context of a business, there are some variables that are independent and dependent but they can influence the success of an organization if they are ignored. As per the above figure, it is clearly defined that the effective management and balance between dependent and independent variables. This conceptual framework describes some effective themes that are:
Entrepreneurial Factors: This theme includes factors such as age and work experience of the business owner in defining the success of a business owner (Shanks, Seddon & Willcocks, 2003). Without these factors, the success of a business owner is not possible.
Enterprise Factors: the long term survival of a business owner depends on the enterprise factors because of the relationship between enterprise and entrepreneurship (Bagheri, Akmaliah & Pihie, 2014).
Business Environment: for the success of a business owner, the external environmental factors of the business are also important as their direct impacts on the long-term survival of a business (Craig & Campbell, 2012).
Further, the theory of Peter Drucker explains the benefits of the resources, innovations and behavior of the entrepreneur to the success of an entrepreneurship. According to the researcher , the success of a business owner can be survived with the help of increasing satisfaction and value to customer, creation of values to business and effective combination of resources and materials (Nyameh, J. 2013). It means the success of the business owner is not possible if these factors are not defined clearly.
Another theory is given by McClelland that reflects towards the achievement of motivation. As per this theory, the need for power and need for the achievements is some motivational factors that ensure the success of a business owner (Steyaert & Hjorth, 2008). Further the theory of Leibenstein focuses towards the gap in the market that ensures the success of a business owner if the products and services offered by that person to address the demand and needs of customers (Casson, 2003).
Above defined theories are relevant with the research problem of this research study because selected theories help the researcher to develop the understanding towards the independent and dependent factors that influence the success of the business owner.
According to Anthony (2018), there are 70% of the 2,700 owners who took participation in surveyed are optimistic towards the future of own company. 57% expects revenue increment in 2018 and 55% expects growth in organizational profits.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
Theoretical Foundations and/or Conceptual Framework
This section identifies the theory(s) or model(s) that provide the foundation for the research. This section should present the theory(s) or models(s) and explain how the problem under investigation relates to the theory or model. The theory(s) or models(s) guide the research questions and justify what is being measured (variables) as well as how those variables are related (quantitative) or the phenomena being investigated (qualitative).
Review of the Literature/Themes
This section provides a broad, balanced overview of the existing literature related to the proposed
research topic. It describes the literature in related topic areas and its relevance to the proposed research topic findings, providing a short 3-4 sentence description of each theme and identifies its relevance to the research problem supporting it with at least two citations from the empirical literature from the
past 3-5 years.
The recommended length for this section is 1 paragraphfor Theoretical Foundations and a bulleted list for Literature Themes section.
1. Theoretical Foundationssection identifies the theory(s), model(s) relevant to the variables (quantitative study) or phenomenon (qualitative study). This section should explain how the study topic or problem coming out of the “need” or “defined gap” in the as described in the Background to the Problem section relates to the theory(s) or model(s) presented in this section. (One paragraph) 2 1
2. Review of the Literature Themessection: This section is a bulleted list of the major themes or topics related to the research topic. Each theme or topic should have a one-two sentence summary. 2 1
3. ALIGNMENT: The Theoretical Foundations models and theories need to be related to and support the problem statement or study topic. The sections in the Review of the Literature are topical areas needed to understand the various aspects of the phenomenon (qualitative) or variables/groups (quantitative) being studied; to select the design needed to address the Problem Statement; to select surveys or instruments to collect information on variables/groups; to define the population and sample for the study; to describe components or factors that comprise the phenomenon; to describe key topics related to the study topic, etc. 2 1
4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: The two parts of this section use information about theLiterature Review and Theoretical Foundations/Conceptual Framework from the 10 Strategic Points.
This Theoretical Foundations section is expanded upon to become the Theoretical Foundations section in Chapter 2 (Literature Review). The Theoretical Foundationsand the Literature Reviewsections are also used to help create the Advancing Scientific Knowledge/Review of the Literature section in Chapter 2 (Literature Review).
Reviewer Comments:
Problem Statement
In this research study, the proposed problem is to explore the survival of the Somali business owners in the Minnesota city. This problem statement looks towards the factors which are influencing or affecting the business. The proposed problem is effective because of the large population of the Somali business owners are now living in the Minnesota city and they are engaged in the business with the help of the local government and government of the US. The analysis of the success factors is very important for them as it will help them to keep the focus on the long-term growth that will help them to expand the business activities as well as the market share and customer base. The analysis of the defined research problem will allow the Somali business owner to use such aspects in their business only that may ensure their success. This is because this research does not only include the outcomes of other developed research studies but also consider the possible aspects that may be required to the business owners to ensure the survival of the market.
Criteria
Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
Problem Statement
This section includes the problem statement, the population affected, and how the study will contribute to solving the problem.
The recommended length for this section is one paragraph.
1. States the specific problem proposed for research with a clear declarative statement. 2 1
2. Describes the population of interest affected by the problem. The general population refers to all individuals that could be affected by the study problem. 2 1
3. Describes the unit of analysis.
For qualitative studies this describes how the phenomenon will be studied. This can be individuals, group, or organization under study.
For quantitative studies, the unit of analysis needs to be defined in terms of the variable structure (conceptual, operational, and measurement). 2 1
4. Discusses the importance, scope, or opportunity for the problem and the importance of addressing the problem. 2 1
5. The problem statement is developed based on the need or gap defined in the Background to the Study section. 2 1
6. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 1.9 1
NOTE: This section elaborates on theProblem Statement from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Problem Statement section in Chapter 1and other Chapters where appropriatein the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Purpose of the Study
This dissertation focuses on the factors that are causing problems to the business owners in Minnesota City where the Somali people live in a larger majority. The problem statement of this research study reflects towards the “Success Factor of Minnesota Somalia Business Owners Sustainability for over 6 Years or More”. It means the main aim of this research study to consider only such factors that may improve the sustainability of the business for over 6 years of more.
Hence, the purpose of this research study is to analyze the factors which are supporting the Somali business owners in the city and help them to survive in the market. Further, the purpose of this research study is to explore the factors which help the Somali business owners to ensure the survival of the city of the Minnesota and other target markets. Therefore, this research study includes the existing business owners in the Minnesota city who are coming from the Somali community. For conducting this research study, the qualitative research design is selected as it is a useful method to explore the human perspectives. Therefore, this research method helps to determine the meaning of the selected research phenomenon or lived experience related to the Somali business owner with the help of the description. For this small sample size of the business owners is selected to conduct the all research activities within the proposed time and under the proposed research budget (Thompson, 2012).
Criteria
Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
This section reflects what the study is about, connecting the problem statement, methodology & research design, target population, variables/phenomena, and geographic location.
The recommended length for this section is one paragraph.
1. Begins with one sentence that identifies the research methodology and design, target population, variables (quantitative) or phenomena (qualitative) to be studied and geographic location. 2 1
2. Quantitative Studies: Defines the variables and relationship of variables.
3. Qualitative Studies: Describes the nature of the phenomena to be explored. 2 1
4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 1.9 0
NOTE: This section elaborates on information inthe Purpose Statement from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Purpose of the Study section in Chapter 1and other Chapters where appropriate in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Research Questions and/or Hypotheses
As per the nature of the research study, the research questions are most important to reach the problem of this research study. For this research study, the human perspective is studies to describe the sustainability of the business owners through the factors related to business that is presented in the external business environment in Minnesota Somalia. Therefore phenomenology research phenomenon is used that allows analyzing the holistic nature of a human’s experience. As a result, the researcher can be able to provide the answer of the qualitative research questions. As per the nature of this research study, research questions related to this research study help to find the exact solution of the research program. Research questions help in framing and exploring the main theme for the research study which facilitates to use right direction for accomplishing the research with credibility and validity. In this context, the following research questions guide this qualitative study:
RQ1: What is the relationship between the success factors of business and sustainability of Minnesota Somalia Business Owners for over 6 Years or more?
RQ2: How would the sustainability of the Minnesota Somalia Business Owners describe?
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
RESEARCH QUESTION(S) AND/OR HYPOTHESES
• The recommendation is a minimum of two research questions along with related hypotheses and variables is required for a quantitative study.
• Also recommended is a minimum of two research questions along with the phenomenon description is required for a qualitative study.
• Put the Research Questions in the appropriate Table in Appendix B based on whether the study is qualitative or quantitative.
The recommended length for this section is a list of research questions and associated hypotheses (quantitative)
1. Qualitative Studies: States the research question(s) the study will answer and describes the phenomenon to be studied.
2. Quantitative Studies: States the research questions the study will answer, identifies and describes the variables, and states the hypotheses (predictive statements) using the format appropriate for the specific design and statistical analysis. 2 1
3. Alignment: The research questions are based on both the Problem Statement and Theoretical Foundation model(s) or theory(s). There should be no research questions that are not clearly aligned to the Problem Statement. 2 0
4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 0
NOTE: This section elaborates on the information about Research Questions) &Hypothesis/variables or Phenomena from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Research Question(s) and/or Hypotheses section in Chapter 1 in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Significance of the Study
As per the selected literature, it is clear that there is enough study in the regard of the external business environmental factors and its relationship with the sustainability of the business. But there is little research study only that considers the sustainability of the business owners in a particular business scenario. Hence, this situation increases the need for a new research study that explores the relationship between the success factors for a business and sustainability of a Somalia Business Owners in the next upcoming future.
In this context, this research study fill this gap by focusing on the sustainability of the business owners in the context of Minnesota Somalia Business because it considers different success factors which help the business owners to ensure the success in market by defeating the pressure of the existing social and economic issues to the migrant people. This new research study will help the business owners in Somali in identifying the success factors for this business which may help them to survive in the market where the entire factors are just different from their expectations. This research study includes the conceptual framework which describes the relationship between the success factors and survival of the business owners. This framework is also effective as it is an analytical tool that helps to analyze different context and variations at a time without ignoring any factor. With the help of this, researcher can organize the ideas and develop the conceptual distinctions which help to capture some real facts related to the research problem and do the research in a way which is easy to apply and remember. As a result, research study can explain the reason related to the why the success factors are important for the sustainability of the business owner.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
ADVANCING SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This section reiterates the gap or need in the literature and states how the study will address the gap or need and how the research will contribute to the literature, practical implications to the community of interest, and alignment with the program of study.
The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs, providing a brief synopsis of each criteria listed below which will be expanded in the proposal.
1. Clearly identifies the “gap” or “need” in the literature that was used to define the problem statement and develop the research questions. (citations required) 2 1
2. Describes how the study will address the “gap” or “identified need” defined in the literature and contribute to /advance the body of literature. (citations required) 2 1
3. Describes the potential practical applications from the research. (citations required) 2 1
4. Identifies and connects the theory(ies) or model(s) that provide the theoretical foundations or conceptual frameworks for the study. (citations required) 2 1
5. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 0
NOTE:This section builds oninformation about the Literature review and Theoretical Foundations sectionsin the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Theoretical Foundations section in Chapter 2
Reviewer Comments:
Rationale for Methodology
The nature of research includes the involvement of the human perspective towards the sustainability of the business. Therefore, the quantitative research methodology may not be used as it needs statistical data and the respective analysis. Statistical information may not effectively represent the human perspective. On the other hand, qualitative research methodology is effective because it helps to use a graph to represent the human perspective which can be easily understood by others (Fowler, 2013). Further, this research methodology also helps to uncover trends in onions and thought by conducting a deeper analysis of the selected research problem. In this context, the research questions are also reflected towards the reasons through using the words such as “how and why”. Hence, the graphical methods to present the perception of respondents towards the research topic will help to provide the answer of research questions effectively.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
RATIONALE FOR METHODOLOGY
The Rationale for Methodology section clearly justifies the methodology the researcher plans to use for conducting the study. It argues how the methodological choice (quantitative or qualitative) is the best approach to answer the research questions and address the problem statement. Finally, it contains citations from textbooks and articles on research methodology and/or articles on related studies to provide evidence to support the argument for the selected methodology.
The recommended length for this section isone paragraph.
1. Identifies the specific research methodology for the study. 2 1
2. Justifies the methodology to be used for the study by discussing why it is an appropriate approach for answering the research question(s) and addressing the problem statement.
3. Quantitative Studies: Justify in terms of problem statement and the variables for which data will be collected.
4. Qualitative Studies: Justify in terms of problem statement and phenomenon. 2 1
5. Uses citations from seminal (authoritative) sources (textbooks and/or empirical research literature) to justify the selected methodology. Note:Introductory or survey research textbooks (such as Creswell) are not considered seminal sources. 2 1
6. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This section elaborates on the Methodology and Design in the 10 Strategic Points.This section becomes the foundation for the Research Methodology in Chapter 1 of the Proposal and the basis for developing Chapter 3, Research Methodology.
Reviewer Comments:
Nature of the Research Design for the Study
Conducting this research effectively, explanatory methodology is selected because only this is effective to analyze the relationship between independent and dependent factors. It helps the researcher to use the imperative research problem to add some value in a research study. The nature of this research is descriptive; therefore, interpretive research philosophy is used that facilitate researcher to develop thorough understanding towards the research problem and its relevance to the business world. Researcher has also used an inductive approach for conducting research from a specific way to a general way. This method is applicable when there is limited information related to research problems. Research strategies for this research are survey (questionnaire) and literature review (Chawla & Sodhi, 2011).
These sources help to collect the data that will help to find the answers to research questions.
The sample size for this research in 56 and the target population belongs from the Somalia Business Owner groups.
Sources of Data
For the data, primary and secondary data sources are collected as this research study is a qualitative research study (Brannen, 2017). Primary sources are interviewing and online survey which provides fresh data related to research problems. Secondary sources are books, published papers and journal articles which provide already published data related to research problems . Further, theories related to the research problem will be used to develop and justify the selected research questions. This is because of the limited time and budget for conducting this research study. For field test, researcher has used the analysis of literature reviews that will help to analyze the answers provided by the respondents (Beiske, 2007). This method will help the researcher to follow the interview protocol and maintain the research’s validity.
Criterion Score Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
NATURE OF THE RESEARCH DESIGN FOR THE STUDY
This section describes the specific research design to answer the research questions and why this approach was selected. Here, the learner discusses why the selected design is the best design to address the problem statement and research questions as compared to other designs. This section contains a description of the research sample being studied, as well as, the process that will be used to collect the data on the sample.
The recommended length for this section is two tothree paragraphs and must address each criterion.
1. Identifies and describes the selected design for the study. 2 1
2. Justifies why the selected design addresses the problem statement and research questions.
3. Quantitative Studies: Justifies the selected design based on the appropriateness of the design to address the research questions and data for each variable.
4. Qualitative Studies: Justifies the selected design based on appropriateness of design to address research questions and study the phenomenon. 2 1
5. Briefly describes the target population and sample for the study. 2 1
6. Identifies the sources and instruments that will be used to collect data needed to answer the research questions. 2 1
7. Briefly describes data collection procedures to collect data on the sample. 2 1
8. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This section also elaborates on the Design portion ofthe Methodology and Design section in the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for Nature of the Research Design for the Study in Chapter 1.
Reviewer Comments:
Research Materials, Instrumentation, ORSources of Data
Sources of Data
For the data, primary and secondary data sources are collected as this research study is a qualitative research study (Brannen, 2017). Primary sources are interviewing and online survey which provides fresh data related to research problems. Secondary sources are books, published papers and journal articles which provide already published data related to research problems. Further, theories related to the research problem will be used to develop and justify the selected research questions. This is because of the limited time and budget for conducting this research study. For field test, researcher has used the analysis of literature reviews that will help to analyze the answers provided by the respondents (Beiske, 2007). This method will help the researcher to follow the interview protocol and maintain the research’s validity.
CriterionScore Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
RESEARCH MATERIALS, INSTRUMENTATION, OR SOURCES OF DATA
This section identifies and describes the types of data that will be collected, as well as the specific research materials, instruments, and sources used to collect those data (tests, surveys, validated instruments, questionnaires, interview protocols, databases, media, etc.).
The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs. Note: this section can be set up as a bulleted list.
Quantitative- Instruments/Research Materials:
Provides a bulleted list of the instrumentation and/or materials for data collection.
Describes the survey instruments or equipment/materials used (experimental research), and specifies the type and level of data collected with each instrument.
Includes citations from original publications by instrument developers (and subsequent users as appropriate) or related studies.
Qualitative – Sources of Data:
Describes the structure of each data collection instrument and data sources (tests, questionnaires, interview protocols, observations databases, media, etc.). 2 1
Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This section elaborates on theData Collection from the 10 Strategic Points.
This information is summarized high level in Chapter 1 in the Proposal in the Nature of the Research Design for the Study section. This section provides the foundation for Research Materials,Instrumentation (quantitative)orSources of Data (qualitative)section in Chapter 3.
Reviewer Comments:
Data Collection
The analysis of the selected data sources will help researchers to collect the dat a that are directly or indirectly explained the factors which are concerned towards the sustainability of the business owners in selected business areas. Further, the primary data source will help the researcher to collect subjective data from the selected respondents about their understanding and thinking towards the research problem of this research study (Cohen, et al, 2007). With the help of this, researcher can get reliable data related to the problem of research that facilitates to find applicable research solution only.
For obtaining informed consent from participants, a prepared form is provided to them that includes complete information of the research as well as its purpose. This form also describes the quitting rights and right to speak of the participants which they can use any time (McNabb, 2010). Through this the selected participants are free to skip any question and free to go out from the research during the data collection process. With the help of this, research can hold the research’s validity.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
DATA COLLECTION AND MANAGEMENT
This section details the data collection process and procedures so that another researcher could conduct or replicate the study. It includes authorizations and detailed steps.
The recommended length for this section is a bullet or numbered list of data collection steps that should not exceed one page.
Quantitative Studies:Lists steps for the actual data collection that would allow replication of the study by another researcher, including how each instrument or data source was used, how and where data were collected, andrecorded. Includes a linear sequence of actions or step-by-step of procedures used to carry out all the major steps for data collection. Includes a workflow and corresponding timeline, presenting a logical, sequential, and transparent protocol for data collection that would allow another researcher to replicate the study.
Data from different sources may have to be collected in parallel (e.g., paper-and-pen surveys for teachers, corresponding students, and their parents AND retrieval of archival data from the school district). A flow chart is ok—”linear” may not apply to all situations
Qualitative Studies:Provides detailed description of data collection process, including all sources of data and methods used, such as interviews, member checking, observations, surveys, field tests, and expert panel review. Note: The collected data must be sufficient in breadth and depth to answer the research question(s) and interpreted and presented correctly, by theme, research question, and/or source of data. 2 2
Describes the procedures for obtaining participant informed consent and for protecting the rights and well-being of the study sample participants. 2 2
Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 2
NOTE:This section elaborates on the Sample and Location and Data Collection in the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for the Data Collection Procedures section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal. And it is summarized high level in Chapter 1 in Nature of the Research Design for the Study in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Data Analysis Procedures
As per the theoretical nature of this research, the qualitative data analysis procedures are used. In this context, followings are some steps related to data analysis procedures that have used:
Developing and Applying Codes : in this step, the behavior, events, and activities are coded to separate the data according to their category (Brannen, 2017).
Identifying patterns, themes and relationships: in this step, finding of data collected from focus groups/interviews is compared with literature review findings to discuss differences (Brannen, 2017).
Summarize the data: In this step, the findings of research are linked with the aim and objectives of the research (Brannen, 2017). For this researcher uses noteworthy quotations that are a transcript in order to highlight major themes of research within possible contractions and findings.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
DATA ANALYSIS PROCEDURES
This section provides detailed steps for the analytic procedures to be used to conduct data analysis.
The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs, can also be presented in bulleted format.
Describes in detail the relevant data collected for each stated research question and/or each variable within each hypothesis (if applicable).
Quantitative Studies: “In detail” means scales (and subscales) of specified instruments AND type of data for each variable of interest. IMPORTANT: For (quasi) experimental studies, provide detailed description of all treatment materials per treatment condition, as part of the description of the independent variable corresponding to the experimental manipulation. 2 1
What: Describes, in detail, statistical and non-statistical analysis to be used and procedures used to conduct the data analysis.
Quantitative Studies: (1) describe data file preparation (descriptive statistics used to check completeness and accuracy; for files from different sources, possibly aggregating data to obtain a common unit of analysis in all files, necessarily merging files (using the key variable defining the unit of analysis); (2) computation of statistics for the sample profile; (3) computation of (subscales and) scales; (4) reliability analysis for all scales and subscales; (5) computation of descriptive statistics for all variables of interest in the study (except those already presented in the sample profile); (6) state and justify all statistical procedures (“tests”) needed to generate the information to answer all research questions; and (7) state assumptions checks for all those statistical procedures (including the tests and / or charts to be computed).
Qualitative Studies: This section begins by identifying and discussing the specific analysis approach or strategy, followed by a discussion of coding procedures to be used. Note: coding procedures may be different for Thematic Analysis, Narrative Analysis, Phenomenological Analysis, or Grounded Theory Analysis . 2 1
Why: Provides the justification for each of the (statistical and non-statistical) data analysis procedures used in the study. 2 1
Show Steps that Support Evidence
Quantitative Analysis – states the level of statistical significance for each test as appropriate, and describes tests of assumptions for each statistical test.
Qualitative Analysis – evidence of qualitative analysis approach, such as coding and theming process, must be completely described and included the analysis /interpretation process. Clear evidence from how codes moved to themes must be presented. 2 1
Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2
NOTE: This section elaborates on the Data Analysis from the 10 Strategic Points.This section provides the foundation for Data Analysis Procedures section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
Ethical Considerations
the research datawill be collected from the library, websites of selected business owners, printed material and Journal articles from Science Direct, Emerald and other online sources. These sources provide only authentic data. Further, terms of informed consent process have used to provide adequate information to subject in the concern of study and ensure that the subject can select any available option (Monsen & Horn, 2007).
For this research, the participants are selected from the community of Minnesota Somalia Business Owners only as the research problems directly relate to their sustainability. On the other hand, the data that would be collected from them will be protected through the providing an agreement paper that will give the assurance about the protection of data and remedies to par ticipants if a data breach will take place (Scruggs & Mastropieri, 2006). During the research study, the breach of personal information of the participants and may create the potential concerns. It may affect the research’s credibility. Therefore, earlier consent from the selected respondents in the regard of the use of collected information will help researcher to address the concerns related to the ethical concerns related to the data breach.
Criteria Learner Self-Assessment Score
(0-3) Chair or Score
(0-3) Reviewer Score
(0-3)
Ethical Considerations
This section discusses the potential ethical issues surrounding the research, as well as how human subjects and data will be protected. It identifies how any potential ethical issues will be addressed.
The recommended length for this section is one paragraph.
1. Describes site authorization process, subject recruiting, and informed consent processes. 2 1
2. Describes how the identities of the participants in the study and data will be protected. 2 1
3. Discusses potential ethical concerns that might occur during the data collection process. 2 1
4. ALIGNMENT: Ethical considerations are clearly aligned with, and relate directly to the specific Data Collection Procedures. This section also identifies ethical considerations related to the target population being researched and organization or location as described in the Purpose Statement section. 2 1
Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. 2 1
NOTE: This section does not include information from any of the 10 Strategic Points.
This section provides the foundation for Ethical Considerations section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal.
Reviewer Comments:
References
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