1 Answer

Instructions
1
Define the problem. All research begins with the identification of a problem, which will lead you to your research questions. The clearer the problem is stated, the more relevant your questions will be. What led you to this topic? What do you see missing in other research about the subject? One of the challenges of a research statement or question is that it needs to be specific, not too broad. Keeping the scope of the research manageable will allow for greater clarity.

2
Familiarize yourself with the body of scholarly literature on your topic. Your research project will have to include a review of the literature as either a separate section of the paper, or incorporated into the body. Include perspectives that both agree and disagree with your perspective. To make a convincing argument, you must demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic.

3
Decide on your research strategy. What will your methodology be? Qualitative research methodologies include case studies, phenomenological studies, ethnographies, grounded theory, or narratives. It can also take a mixed method approach, which combines elements of quantitative methodologies with qualitative. Part of the task of defining your methodology will be determining the theoretical frameworks you will be engaging. If, for example, you are conducting a case study, you must consider frameworks other scholars have used, even if you are conceptualizing a new framework. Part of the job of research is demonstrating thorough knowledge of your topic, and adding to it.

4
Write your statement of purpose. Here you must be able to articulate what your intentions for this study are. It is also your opportunity to hone your project to one idea or phenomenon. According to research expert John Creswell, elements of a research statement include a working definition of the idea, mention of the participants, use of neutral, non-directional words and phrases (for example, say "the experiences of individuals," not "the successful experience of individuals"), words denoting the research strategy and the site of the research.

5
Devise your research questions. According to Creswell, qualitative research states research questions, not hypotheses. There should be one or two primary questions, and no more than five to seven sub-questions -- this helps narrow the scope of the study. Orient the research question to the specific methodology you will use, use the words "what" or "how" to begin the question, and use exploratory verbs (like "discover" or "seek to understand") to indicate an emerging, open-ended research design.

6
Create a timeline, especially for longer projects that involve interacting with communities of people (such as ethnographies), or will require funds. When working with certain populations of people --- like Native Americans --- you will likely need to go through an IRB (institutional review board) permitting process, either through the university, or the tribe, or both. This can take months, so plan well in advance.

Read more: How to Plan Qualitative Research | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_8619639_plan-qualitative-research.html#ixzz2RKFClRd3