research proposal for sociology

How to write a Research Proposal: Explained with Examples

At some time in your student phase, you will have to do a Thesis or Dissertation, and for that, you will have to submit a research proposal. A Research Proposal in its most basic definition is a formally structured document that explains what, why, and how of your research. This document explains What you plan to research (your topic or theme of research), Why you are doing this research (justifying your research topic), and How you will do (your approach to complete the research). The purpose of a proposal is to convince other people apart from yourself that the work you’re doing is suitable and feasible for your academic position.

The process of writing a research proposal is lengthy and time-consuming. Your proposal will need constant edits as you keep taking your work forward and continue receiving feedback. Although, there is a structure or a template that needs to be followed. This article will guide you through this strenuous task. So, let’s get to work!

Research Proposal: Example

[ Let us take a running example throughout the article so that we cover all the points. Let us assume that we are working on a dissertation that needs to study the relationship between Gender and Money. ]

The Title is one of the first things the reader comes across. Your title should be crisp yet communicate all that you are trying to convey to the reader. In academia, a title gets even more weightage because in a sea of resources, sometimes your research project can get ignored because the title didn’t speak for itself. Therefore, make sure that you brainstorm multiple title options and see which fits the best. Many times in academic writing we use two forms of titles: the Main Title and the Subtitle. If you think that you cannot justify your research using just a Title, you can add a subtitle which will then convey the rest of your explanation.

[ Explanation through an example: Our theme is “Gender and Money”.

Insider’s Info: If you are not confident about your title in your research proposal, then write “Tentative Title” in brackets and italic below your Title. In this way, your superiors (professor or supervisor) will know that you are still working on fixing the title.

Overview / Abstract

The overview, also known as abstract and/or introduction, is the first section that you write for your proposal. Your overview should be a single paragraph that explains to the reader what your whole research will be about. In a nutshell, you will use your abstract to present all the arguments that you will be taking in detail in your thesis or research. What you can do is introduce your theme a little along with your topic and the aim of your research. But beware and do not reveal all that you have in your pocket. Make sure to spend plenty of time writing your overview because it will be used to determine if your research is worth taking forward or reading.

Existing Literature

Difference between “literature review” and “existing literature”.

A literature review is a detailed essay that discusses all the material which is already out there regarding your topic. For a literature review, you will have to mention all the literature you have read and then explain how they benefit you in your field of research.

[ Explanation through an example: Now we know that our topic is: Our theme is “A study of “Gendered Money” in the Rural households of Delhi.”

To find the existing literature on this topic you should find academic articles relating to the themes of money, gender, economy, income, etc. ]

Research Gap

Insider’s Info : If you are unable to find a research gap for your dissertation, the best hack to fall back on is to say that all the research done up to this point have been based on western notions and social facts, but you will conduct research which holds in your localized reality.

Research Question / Hypothesis

Some of the research questions you can state can be,

Research Methodology / Research Design

This part of the research proposal is about how you will conduct and complete your research. To understand better what research methodology is, we should first clarify the difference between methodology and method. Research Method is the technique used by you to conduct your research. A method includes the sources of collecting your data such as case studies, interviews, surveys, etc. On the other hand, Methodology is how you plan to apply your method . Your methodology determines how you execute various methods during the course of your dissertation.

Therefore, a research methodology, which is also known as research design, is where you tell your reader how you plan to do your research. You tell the step-by-step plan and then justify it. Your research methodology will inform your supervisor how you plan to use your research tools and methods.

Your methodology should explain where you are conducting the research and how. So for this research, your field will be rural Delhi. Explain why you chose to study rural households and not urban ones. Then comes the how, some of the methods you might want to opt for can be Interviews, Questionnaires, and/or Focused Group Discussions. Do not forget to mention your sample size, i.e., the number of people you plan to talk to. ]

Insider’s Info: Make sure that you justify all the methods you plan to use. The more you provide your supervisor with a justification; the more serious and formal you come out to be in front of them. Also, when you write your why down, it is hard to forget the track and get derailed from the goal.

For this project, you can mention that you will be allocated 4 months, out of which 1 month will be utilized for fieldwork and the rest would be used for secondary research, compilation, and completion of the thesis. ]

Aim of the Research

You can present that through your research you will aim to find if the money which enters the household belongs equally to everyone, or does it get stratified and gendered in this realm. Through this research, you aim to present a fresh new perspective in the field of studies of gendered money. ]

Bibliography

Insider’s Info: You do not number or bullet your bibliography. They should be arranged alphabetically based on the surname of the author.

Learn: Citation with Examples

https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/

School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies

How to write a phd research proposal.

In order to help you with your application, the information below aims to give some guidance on how a typical research proposal might look.

Your research proposal is a concise statement (up to 3,000 words) of the rationale for your research proposal, the research questions to be answered and how you propose to address them. We know that during the early stages of your PhD you are likely to refine your thinking and methodology in discussion with your supervisors.

However, we want to see that you can construct a fairly rigorous, high quality research proposal.

We use your research proposal to help us decide whether you would be a suitable candidate to study at PhD level. We therefore assess your proposal on its quality, originality, and coherence. It also helps us to decide if your research interests match those of academics in the School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies (SPAIS) and whether they would be able to provide suitably qualified supervision for your proposed research.

Format of the research proposal

Your proposal should include the following:

Title. A short, indicative title is best.

Abstract. This is a succinct summary of your research proposal (approximately 200-300 words) that will present a condensed outline, enabling the reader to get a very quick overview of your proposed project, lines of inquiry and possible outcomes. An abstract is often written last, after you have written the proposal and are able to summarise it effectively.

Rationale for the research project. This might include a description of the question/debate/phenomenon of interest; an explanation of why the topic is of interest to you; and an outline of the reasons why the topic should be of interest to research and/ or practice (the 'so what?' question).

Aims and initial research question. What are the aims and objectives of the research? State clearly the puzzle you are addressing, and the research question that you intend to pursue. It is acceptable to have multiple research questions, but it is a good idea to clarify which is the main research question. If you have hypotheses, discuss them here. A research proposal can and should make a positive and persuasive first impression and demonstrate your potential to become a good researcher. In particular, you need to demonstrate that you can think critically and analytically as well as communicate your ideas clearly.

Research context for your proposed project. Provide a short introduction to your area of interest with a succinct, selective and critical review of the relevant literature. Demonstrate that you understand the theoretical underpinnings and main debates and issues in your research area and how your proposed research will make an original and necessary contribution to this. You need to demonstrate how your proposed research will fill a gap in existing knowledge.

Intended methodology. Outline how you plan to conduct the research and the data sources that you will use. We do not expect you to have planned a very detailed methodology at this stage, but you need to provide an overview of how you will conduct your research (qualitative and/or quantitative methods) and why this methodology is suited for your proposed study. You need to be convincing about the appropriateness and feasibility of the approaches you are suggesting, and reflective about problems you might encounter (including ethical and data protection issues) in collecting and analysing your data.

Expected outcomes and impact. How do you think the research might add to existing knowledge; what might it enable organisations or interested parties to do differently? Increasingly in academia (and this is particularly so for ESRC-funded studentships), PhD students are being asked to consider how their research might contribute to both academic impact and/or economic and societal impact. (This is well explained on the ESRC website if you would like to find out more.) Please consider broader collaborations and partnerships (academic and non-academic) that will support your research. Collaborative activity can lead to a better understanding of the ways in which academic research can translate into practice and it can help to inform and improve the quality of your research and its impact.

Timetable. What is your initial estimation of the timetable of the dissertation? When will each of the key stages start and finish (refining proposal; literature review; developing research methods; fieldwork; analysis; writing the draft; final submission). There are likely to overlaps between the stages.

Why Bristol? Why – specifically – do you want to study for your PhD at Bristol ? How would you fit into the School's  research themes and research culture . You do not need to identify supervisors at the application stage although it can be helpful if you do.

Bibliography. Do make sure that you cite what you see as the key readings in the field. This does not have to be comprehensive but you are illustrating the range of sources you might use in your research.

We expect your research proposal to be clear, concise and grammatically correct. Prior to submitting your research proposal, please make sure that you have addressed the following issues:

• Have you included a clear summary of what the proposed research is about and why it is significant?
• Have you clearly identified what your proposed research will add to our understanding of theory, knowledge or research design?
• Does it state what contributions it will make to policy and/or practice?
• Does the proposal clearly explain how you will do the research?
• Is the language clear and easy to understand by someone who is not an expert in the field?
• Is the grammar and spelling correct?

How to write a research proposal

You will need to submit a research proposal with your PhD application. This is crucial in the assessment of your application and it warrants plenty of time and energy.

Your proposal should outline your project and be around 1,500 words.

Your research proposal should include a working title for your project.

Overview of the research

In this section, you should provide a short overview of your research. You should also state how your research fits into the research priorities of your particular subject area.

Here you can refer to the research areas and priorities of a particular research grouping or supervisor.

You must also state precisely why you have chosen to apply to the discipline area and how your research links into our overall profile.

Positioning of the research

This should reference the most important texts related to the research, demonstrate your understanding of the research issues, and identify existing gaps (both theoretical and practical) that the research is intended to address.

Research design and methodology

This section should identify the information that is necessary to carry out the analysis and the possible research techniques that could deliver the information.

Your research proposal will be used to assess the quality and originality of your ideas, whether you are able to think critically and whether you have a grasp of the relevant literature. It also gives us important information about the perspectives you intend to take on your research area, and how you fit into the department's research profile overall. This is helpful when assigning a supervisor.

Flexibility

You will not be forced to follow the proposal exactly once you have started to study. It is normal for students to refine their original proposal, in light of detailed literature review, further consideration of research approaches and comments received from your supervisors (and other academic staff).

Pitfalls to avoid

We sometimes have to reject students who meet the academic requirements but have not produced a satisfactory research proposal, therefore:

• Make sure that your research idea, question or problem is very clearly stated and well-grounded in academic research.
• Make sure that your proposal is well focused and conforms exactly to the submission requirements described here.
• Poorly specified, jargon-filled or rambling proposals will not convince us that you have a clear idea of what you want to do.

The University uses electronic systems to detect plagiarism and other forms of academic malpractice and for assessment. All Humanities PhD programmes require the submission of a research proposal as part of the application process. The Doctoral Academy upholds the principle that where a candidate approaches the University with a project of study, this should be original. While it is understandable that research may arise out of previous studies, it is vital that your research proposal is not the subject of plagiarism.

Find a supervisor

Exploring our research specialisms will help you to match your proposal idea with a suitable supervisor.

Current PhD students

Get inspiration from some of the students about the types of research topics you can pursue.

3 March 2007

Sociological Research, Analytical Methodology

Spring 2007

The Basic Content of a Research Proposal:

In general, a research proposal attempts to describe the plan for a specific research project in a way that other scholars find worthy. A research proposal seeks approval and support from the faculty overseeing students in a graduate program, the scholars and administrators responsible for human subject requirements, and those who advise and control funding programs in foundations, government, and universities. In general terms, research proposals attempt to show that the authors know what they are doing.  A proposal tries to show that the planned research meets scholarly standards, that the research will produce worthwhile results (usually meaning that we can reasonably anticipate it will advance our knowledge about a question worth answering), often tries to show a practical payoff to the expected findings (a common requirement for funding), and seeks to defend the project against plausible criticisms. When a proposal is successful, those reading the proposal will decide that it is a good plan, that they cannot conceive any shortcomings or pitfalls that threaten the project, that there is a high probability that the research will successfully achieve its stated goals, and that the researchers have the expertise, commitment, and vision to see the project through. Those at whom a research proposal is aimed will, and should, approach it critically, looking hard for its shortcomings, demanding that the proposal be convincing, not giving it the benefit of doubt. It is worth noting that it is almost impossible to write a successful proposal without getting considerable feedback from others who stand in for the critical readers to whom the proposal is addressed.

Here is an outline of what we can expect to find in a research proposal in the social sciences. The amount of attention paid to these points, the order in which they are addressed, and the character of the presentation will vary considerably according to the specifics of the project, the authors, and its intended audience.

• A summary or abstract ; this should give the heart of the research project in a nutshell.
•  Concisely state how does the research promise to make a contribution to the scholarly literature relating to some issue with a history and a future, using a method that will be effective and accepted.
• Possible significance to scholars working on other problems
• Possible relevance to policy issues
• Important recent work on main theoretical questions
• Historical background of theoretical questions
• Important recent work on general empirical issues
• Best work on specific research questions, both regarding the hypotheses and the data
• Literature review should aim at a dialogue with the past work, putting into context, identifying relevant limitations, inconsistencies, and opportunities for extension
• Should locate the research within an area in sociology and a program of past research, clarifying the theoretical and empirical traditions that shape and motivate the research
• If the research has relevance for policy issues, these should be examined (critical for funding proposals)
• Consider both the narrow and big questions
• Consider both the relatively certain contribution and the less certain but potentially higher pay off possibilities
• Will the research extend previous research on the topic?
• Will it fill gaps in the existing research literature?
• Will it resolve disputes among scholars working in the substantive area?
• Ideally, hypotheses should distinguish competing arguments
• Hypotheses normally should be derived from theoretical arguments, not appear as simple empirical projections or common sense predictions
• Clarify what assumptions are implicit in the research design
• What methodological approach will be used? Why?
• Variable conceptualization
• Measurement
• Means for observing and collecting data
• What is the sampling plan?
• Why is this an optimal sampling plan?
• Locating the sample
• Acquiring the data
• Getting relevant permissions
• Be concrete about what the data will look like and what you will do with it
• The aim is both to give a clear description of the intended data analysis and to convince the reader that the authors are sufficiently knowledgeable about the relevant data analysis techniques and issues that they will successfully overcome the unanticipated problems sure to arise.
• This section should anticipate the potential issues good scholars are likely to raise.
• What are the explicit goals for the research project?
• What specific questions will it investigate?
• What do you expect to find? Why do you expect that?
• How will the research show you are wrong in your assumptions or your arguments if you are wrong? Why are the results you expect very unlikely if your theoretical position is wrong?
• What are the limitations of this planned project?
• Schedule for project (time for each stage and when expect to complete)
• Budget and means of funding
• Anticipated practical or logistical problems and means of solving
• Approval by human subjects board?
• Discussion/Conclusion
• Bibliography

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Sociology Research Proposal Topics: A Guide for College Students

Rachel r.n..

• July 4, 2024
• How to Guides

Hey there, fellow sociology enthusiasts! Are you scratching your head trying to come up with a killer topic for your sociology research proposal? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.

This guide is here to help you navigate the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) world of sociology research. We’ll explore a bunch of interesting topics, break down the research proposal process, and give you some tips to make your proposal stand out.

So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive in!

What You'll Learn

Why Choose a Good Research Topic Matters

Before we jump into the topics, let’s talk about why picking a good research topic is so important. Think of it like choosing a destination for a road trip – the right choice can make your journey exciting and memorable, while the wrong one might leave you stuck in a boring town with nothing to do.

A good research topic:

• Keeps you motivated throughout your project
• Contributes something new to the field of sociology
• Allows you to showcase your skills and interests
• Can open doors for future research or career opportunities

So, take your time in choosing a topic that really speaks to you. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

How to Choose a Sociology Research Topic

Alright, now let’s talk about how to actually pick a topic. It’s not just about throwing a dart at a list of ideas (though that could be fun). Here are some steps to help you find the perfect fit:

• Reflect on your interests : What areas of sociology get you excited? Is it social media’s impact on relationships? The changing dynamics of family structures? Write down a few broad areas that interest you.
• Look at current events : Sociology is all about studying society, so what’s happening in the world right now? Browse news websites, social media trends, or even chat with friends about issues they care about.
• Review your course materials : Your textbooks and lecture notes are goldmines for research ideas. Look for themes or concepts that caught your attention during the semester.
• Talk to your professors : They’re not just there to grade your papers! Your professors can offer valuable insights and might even suggest cutting-edge research areas you hadn’t considered.
• Narrow it down : Once you have a general area, start focusing on specific aspects or questions within that topic. For example, if you’re interested in education, you might look at the impact of online learning on student performance.

Remember, choosing a topic is just the first step. You’ll refine and narrow your focus as you develop your research proposal.

Popular Sociology Research Topics

Now, let’s explore some popular areas in sociology that could spark some ideas for your research proposal. We’ll break these down into different categories to help you find something that matches your interests.

1. Social Media and Technology

In today’s digital age, the impact of social media and technology on society is huge. Here are some potential research topics in this area:

• The influence of social media on body image among college students
• How online dating apps are changing relationship dynamics
• The role of social media in political activism and social movements
• Cyberbullying and its effects on mental health in teenagers
• The impact of smartphone use on face-to-face social interactions
• How social media affects the spread of misinformation during global events

Example: You could propose a study on how the use of Instagram affects self-esteem in college-aged women. This might involve surveying a group of students about their Instagram habits and measuring their self-esteem levels over time.

2. Family and Relationships

Family structures and relationships are always changing, providing plenty of research opportunities:

• The effects of divorce on children’s academic performance
• Changing attitudes towards same-sex marriage across generations
• The impact of social media on family communication
• Single-parent households and their economic challenges
• The role of grandparents in modern family structures
• Interracial relationships and social acceptance in different communities

Example: A research proposal could focus on how the increasing acceptance of same-sex marriage has affected family dynamics in conservative communities. This might involve interviews with LGBTQ+ couples and their family members in specific regions.

3. Education and Inequality

Education is a key factor in social mobility, but it’s also an area where inequalities are often highlighted:

• The impact of socioeconomic status on educational opportunities
• Gender disparities in STEM fields at the college level
• The effectiveness of affirmative action policies in higher education
• The role of standardized testing in perpetuating educational inequalities
• Access to education for immigrant and refugee populations
• The long-term effects of student loan debt on career choices and life decisions

Example: You might propose a study on how access to technology at home affects academic performance in low-income neighborhoods. This could involve comparing test scores and graduation rates between schools with different levels of technology access.

4. Race and Ethnicity

Issues of race and ethnicity continue to be crucial areas of sociological research:

• The impact of racial stereotypes in media representation
• Experiences of microaggressions among minority college students
• Racial disparities in healthcare access and outcomes
• The effectiveness of diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workplace
• Cultural assimilation vs. multiculturalism in immigrant communities
• The intersection of race and class in urban gentrification

Example: A research proposal could examine how racial stereotypes in popular TV shows affect viewers’ perceptions of different ethnic groups. This might involve content analysis of shows and surveys of viewers.

5. Gender and Sexuality

Gender roles and sexuality are constantly evolving, providing rich ground for sociological research:

• The impact of the #MeToo movement on workplace dynamics
• Changing perceptions of gender roles in millennial and Gen Z populations
• The experiences of transgender individuals in healthcare settings
• Gender wage gap across different industries and job levels
• The influence of social media on LGBTQ+ youth identity formation
• Representations of non-binary and genderqueer individuals in mainstream media

Example: You could propose a study on how the presence of gender-neutral bathrooms on college campuses affects the experiences of transgender and non-binary students. This might involve surveys and interviews with students before and after the implementation of such facilities.

6. Health and Healthcare

Health issues have significant social implications, especially highlighted by recent global events:

• The social determinants of health in different communities
• Mental health stigma among different cultural groups
• The impact of social support networks on chronic disease management
• Healthcare disparities in rural vs. urban areas
• The societal impact of anti-vaccination movements
• The role of social media in spreading health information (and misinformation)

Example: A research proposal could focus on how social support networks affect the management of chronic diseases like diabetes in different ethnic communities. This might involve comparing health outcomes and interviewing patients about their support systems.

7. Crime and Deviance

The study of crime and deviant behavior is a classic area of sociology with many contemporary applications:

• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in reducing recidivism
• The impact of marijuana legalization on crime rates and social attitudes
• Cybercrime and its effects on individuals and businesses
• The relationship between poverty and crime in urban areas
• Gender differences in types of crimes committed and sentencing
• The role of social media in gang recruitment and activities

Example: You might propose a study on how the legalization of marijuana in certain states has affected crime rates and public perceptions of drug use. This could involve analyzing crime statistics and conducting surveys in states before and after legalization.

8. Environment and Society

Environmental issues have significant social implications:

• The impact of climate change on migration patterns
• Environmental racism and the location of hazardous waste sites
• Social movements and environmental activism in the digital age
• The effectiveness of recycling programs in different communities
• The social and economic impacts of natural disasters on vulnerable populations
• Consumer behavior and attitudes towards sustainable products

Example: A research proposal could examine how social media campaigns affect young people’s engagement with environmental issues. This might involve analyzing social media data and surveying young activists.

Structure of a Sociology Research Proposal

Now that we’ve explored some topic areas, let’s break down what actually goes into a research proposal. Think of this as the blueprint for your research project.

Your title should be clear, concise, and reflect the main idea of your research. It’s like the headline of a newspaper article – it should grab attention and give a good idea of what’s to come.

Example: “The Impact of Social Media Use on Self-Esteem Among College Students: A Longitudinal Study”

2. Abstract

This is a brief summary of your entire proposal, usually about 150-300 words. It should cover your research question, methodology, and the significance of your study. Think of it as the trailer for your research movie – it should give a taste of what’s to come and make people want to read more.

3. Introduction

Here’s where you set the stage for your research. You should:

• Provide background information on your topic
• Explain why this research is important
• State your research question or hypothesis clearly

Example: “In recent years, social media use has skyrocketed among college students. While these platforms offer new ways to connect, they may also be affecting users’ mental health and self-esteem. This study aims to investigate the relationship between social media use and self-esteem among college students over time.”

4. Literature Review

This section shows that you’ve done your homework. You’ll need to:

• Summarize relevant existing research on your topic
• Identify gaps in current knowledge that your study will address
• Explain how your research fits into the broader academic conversation

Remember to cite your sources properly!

5. Methodology

Here, you’ll explain exactly how you plan to conduct your research. Be specific about:

• Your research design (e.g., survey, experiment, interviews)
• Your sample (who will participate in your study and how you’ll recruit them)
• Your data collection methods
• How you plan to analyze your data

Example: “This study will use a longitudinal survey design. We will recruit 200 college students and have them complete online surveys about their social media use and self-esteem at three time points over one academic year. Data will be analyzed using regression analysis to examine the relationship between social media use and changes in self-esteem over time.”

6. Ethical Considerations

Research involving human subjects always requires careful ethical consideration. Discuss:

• How you’ll protect participants’ privacy and confidentiality
• Any potential risks to participants and how you’ll minimize them
• How you’ll obtain informed consent
• Whether you need approval from an Institutional Review Board (IRB)

7. Timeline

Provide a realistic schedule for your research. This might include:

• When you’ll recruit participants
• When data collection will occur
• Time for data analysis
• Writing up your results

If your research requires funding, include a detailed budget. This might cover:

• Equipment or software needed
• Compensation for participants
• Travel expenses
• Costs for data analysis or transcription services

9. Expected Results and Significance

Discuss what you expect to find and why it matters. Consider:

• How your findings might contribute to sociological theory
• Practical implications of your research
• Potential for future research based on your study

10. References

List all the sources you cited in your proposal. Make sure to use the citation style required by your institution (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Tips for Writing a Stellar Sociology Research Proposal

Alright, now that you know what goes into a research proposal, here are some tips to make yours shine:

• Be clear and concise : Your writing should be easy to understand. Avoid jargon or overly complex language.
• Show your passion : Let your enthusiasm for your topic come through in your writing. If you’re excited about your research, your readers will be too!
• Be realistic : Make sure your proposed research is something you can actually do with the time and resources available to you.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread : Typos and grammatical errors can make your proposal look sloppy. Take the time to review and edit your work carefully.
• Get feedback : Ask your professors, classmates, or even friends outside your field to read your proposal. They might spot things you’ve missed or have great suggestions.
• Connect to broader issues : Show how your research relates to larger societal issues or current events. This helps demonstrate the relevance and importance of your work.
• Be specific : The more details you can provide about your methods and analysis, the stronger your proposal will be.
• Address potential limitations : No study is perfect. Showing that you’ve thought about potential weaknesses in your research design demonstrates critical thinking skills.
• Use visuals if appropriate : Charts, graphs, or diagrams can sometimes help explain complex ideas more clearly than text alone.
• Follow the guidelines : Make sure you’re adhering to any specific requirements set by your professor or institution.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even the best researchers can fall into some common traps when writing proposals. Here are some to watch out for:

• Being too ambitious : It’s great to dream big, but make sure your research is actually doable within your timeframe and resources.
• Neglecting the literature review : Your research doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Make sure you’re familiar with existing work in your area and can explain how your study fits in.
• Vague research questions : Your research question should be specific and answerable. “How does social media affect people?” is too broad. “How does daily Instagram use affect self-esteem in college students?” is much better.
• Ignoring ethical issues : Even if your research seems harmless, always consider potential ethical implications and address them in your proposal.
• Poor organization : A jumbled, hard-to-follow proposal won’t impress anyone. Use clear headings and a logical structure to guide your reader through your ideas.
• Weak methodology : Be as specific as possible about how you’ll conduct your research. Vague statements like “I’ll interview some people” won’t cut it.
• Forgetting about analysis : It’s not enough to collect data – you need to explain how you’ll make sense of it. Don’t neglect your data analysis plan.
• Overuse of jargon : While some technical terms might be necessary, try to write in a way that an educated non-expert could understand.
• Plagiarism : Always cite your sources properly. Plagiarism is a serious academic offense.
• Ignoring formatting requirements : Pay attention to any specific formatting guidelines provided by your institution. Details matter!

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Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground here. Choosing a sociology research topic and writing a proposal might seem daunting, but remember – this is your chance to explore something you’re truly interested in. Your research has the potential to contribute to our understanding of society and maybe even make a real-world impact.

As you work on your proposal, keep these key points in mind:

• Choose a topic you’re passionate about
• Make sure your research question is clear and specific
• Ground your work in existing literature
• Be detailed about your methodology
• Consider the ethical implications of your research
• Show why your research matters

Remember, your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect. The research process is iterative – you’ll likely revise and refine your ideas as you go along. Don’t be afraid to seek help from your professors or peers. They can offer valuable insights and feedback.

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And then follow the progressive flow. 

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Writing Guide

Writing sociological topics.

“Sociology is the scientific study of human social life. Sociologists seek to describe social patterns and to develop theories for explanation and prediction of social processes of all sizes. Sociology applies objective and systematic methods of investigation to identify patterns and forms of social life and to understand the processes of development and change in human societies.”

Sociology can be described as the scientific study of society.

Sociologists follow the scientific method in research and translate that research into language that is applicable to diverse audiences.

Even if you don’t plan on becoming a sociologist, learning to communicate in the writing and oral styles that are specific to sociology can be useful in many professions. Even though sociological writing is presenting research about the social world, which we all live in and experience that does not mean that the sociological style of writing will come naturally.

Whether you’re writing a “low-stakes” summary of assigned readings, or a “high-stakes” research proposal, there are stylistic rules specific to sociology that need to be followed. This writing guide aims to help students in sociology courses understand these guidelines and improve their sociological writing.

Departmental Expectations

• Enable students to understand the interactions among individuals, groups, and social institutions in society.
• Develop student competence in understanding, critically assessing, and applying major sociological concepts.
• Introduce students to the various theoretical perspectives of sociology.
• Develop student understanding of research methods appropriate to sociological inquiry.
• Develop student competence in posing research questions, evaluating evidence, and developing logical arguments.

Disciplinary Genres

Writing in sociology can be either argumentative or analytical. Too often, students in sociology try to find the “right” answer, rather than taking a stance on the literature.

There are various writing genres within sociology. These genres include, but are not limited to: social issue analyses, article critiques, literature reviews, quantitative research designs, quantitative research papers, qualitative research designs, and qualitative research papers. Common types of writing in sociology classes at UNC Charlotte include summaries of readings, topic essays, literature reviews, methodological designs, and research proposals.

For these writing assignments, you will be asked to analyze and critique previous research or make an argument for proposed research, or both. While the exact style of writing will vary by assignment, and by professor, the writing norms of sociology will always apply.

Writing and Speaking Norms in Sociology

The learning objectives for sociology courses can be reached through communicating in a way that is appropriate to the field of Sociology. As a student in Sociology, you will regularly engage in various types of writing.

As is the case in other academic disciplines, sociologists have developed a style of writing that is most appropriate. The American Sociological Association style guide presents the fundamentals of sociological writing.

Following these guidelines, writing in sociology should be:

• Clear in expression, with respect to ideas and structure
• Concise and coherent, avoiding wordy phrases
• Absent of language reflecting bias or stereotypes
• Using an active voice
• Use verb tense that is consistent within a section
• Proper citations, using American Sociological Association (ASA) guidelines

Examples of Common Assignments

The sociology department, as well as all departments at UNC Charlotte, incorporates low-stakes, medium-stakes, and high-stakes writing into the curriculum. It is not uncommon for sociology courses to assign written work from all of these levels.

Low-stakes assignments serve as a means for input: exploration, discovery, hypothesizing, problem-solving, and so on. Think of these assignments as “writing to learn”. Below are some examples of low-stakes assignments commonly used in sociology courses.

• Brief in-class writing assignments on course topics.
• Summaries of assigned readings.
• Creating a hypothesis.
• Brief, or list-like, writings about a topic.

Medium Stakes

Medium-stakes assignments focus on certain thinking processes within the discipline. These assignments are still primarily informal but require more guidelines for format, structure, and style that are appropriate to sociology . These assignments are typically done in one sitting and do not require extensive revision. Below are some examples of medium-stakes assignments commonly used in sociology courses.

• Response papers on lecture or other course materials that incorporate sociological perspectives.
• Wiki contributions, blog posts, discussion board posts.
• Reflection papers on personal experiences.
• Analyses of current issues or events.

High Stakes

High-stakes assignments are easily recognizable. These assignments incorporate analysis, argumentation, or both to a broad range of concepts or readings. High-stakes writing assignments are subject to several revisions and follow more closely the style guidelines of sociology. Below are some common high-stakes writing assignments in sociology:

• Research proposal or research report.
• Written report on qualitative or quantitative research done by the student.
• Final papers that integrate the entirety of course topics.

Here’s an example of a high-stakes research proposal with instructor comments.

Writing Outcomes

Listed at the bottom of this page in the attachments section is an example of a survey research paper done by a UNC Charlotte student as well as the rubric the instructor utilized for grading purposes.

Below are several tools and tips to help you communicate effectively in sociology.

General Advice for Non-Majors will help students not familiar with writing in sociology.

ASA Style Guide will provide examples of the writing and speaking norms in sociology, as well as show how to properly cite resources.

This Reading Guide will help students learn how to approach sociological literature.

The Writing Resource Center at UNC Charlotte provides writing services to students.

Citation Guide will help you make sure that all of your resources are properly cited.

List of ASA (American Sociological Association) Writing Style Guides

The University Center for Academic Excellence (UCAE) provides academic support for UNC Charlotte students.

The Dr. Abel Scribe citation tool is another useful guide for learning about the ASA’s formatting rules as well as its citation guidelines.

Endnote – Citation software program available to UNC Charlotte students.

Marquette University’s Writing Guide for Social Science Majors

University of California, Berkeley’s Writing Guide for Sociology Majors

These sections adapted from:

American Sociological Association. 2010. American Sociological Association Style Guide. 4th ed. Washington, DC: American Sociological Association.

Bean, John C. 2001. Engaging Ideas: The Professor’s Guide to Integrating Writing, Critical Thinking, and Active Learning in the Classroom. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Darmouth Institute for Writing and Rhetoric “General Advice for Non-Majors” accessed 2013.

Harris, Angelique and Alia R. Tyner-Mullings. 2013. Writing for Emerging Sociologists. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications

Johnson, William A. et al. 2004. The Sociology Student Writer’s Manual. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall

UNC Charlotte Department of Sociology “Home” section accessed 2013.

Prof. Baez - SOC101 Introduction to Sociology: Research Proposal

• The Research Project
• Journal Article Reports
• Search Strategy
• I: Use Limiters in the Databases
• II: View your Results
• III: Print or Save the Article
• How to Read a Scholarly Article
• Primary v Secondary Sources
• Evaluate Sources
• Research Proposal
• Find Additional Data
• Presentation Tips and Help
• APA Citing and Plagiarism
• Work off campus
• Library and Tutoring Help Spring 2024

The Research Proposal

Research Proposal Guidelines

For your final you will produce a research proposal , for which you will conduct some literature research and a cumulative overview of the semester’s efforts.

You will begin with your topic of interest, and return to chapters that analytically relate to your topic. From  Chapter 2, you will evaluate and select an appropriate research methodology that suits the topic of your interest. From Mills’s sociological imagination and Chapter 9’s review of social stratification and inequality you will elaborate on the sociological problem of interest.

You will explain the topic reflected through the 3 main sociological perspectives/theories ( functionalism , symbolic interactionism and conflict approach ) as well as additional theories and concepts from the semester to apply to the social problem. And you will address social structures and institutions that affect the social topic. Revisiting your literature research skills, you will find primary sources that speak to the sociological topic of interest.

Theoretical Perspectives

• Functionalism
• Symbolic Interactionism
• Conflict Approach

Source: Table 1.2 Sociological Theories or Perspectives Different sociological perspectives enable sociologists to view social issues through a variety of useful lenses. (2015). Retrieved from https://cnx.org/contents/[email protected]:QMRfI2p1@13/1-3-Theoretical-Perspectives

Applied Research

• Coleen Rooney, Soccer Star’s Wife, Says Rebekah Vardy Leaked Details to Tabloid (NY Times)

What is a Research Proposal?

• Writing a Research Proposal in the Social Sciences (USC Libraries)

Research Methods

• Field Research
• Participant Observation
• Ethnography
• Experiments
• Secondary Data Analysis

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Sociology Research Proposal (L4056)

30 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

The aim of this module is to give you direct experience of designing a small-scale research project or a theoretical study. It is intended to build on your knowledge on research methods if you complete an empirical research project, as well as the theoretical, conceptual and substantive knowledge gained throughout your degree.

You work mainly through independent study, under the guidance of a supervisor.

Contact hours and workload

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2021/22. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Criminology and Sociology BA
• History and Sociology BA
• International Relations and Sociology BA
• Philosophy and Sociology BA
• Politics and Sociology BA
• Sociology BA
• Sociology and International Development BA
• Sociology with Media Studies BA
• Sociology with a Language BA