Writing a research proposal is one of the critical steps in the academic journey of any student at Kenyatta University, especially those in the School of Economics. A well-structured research proposal not only showcases your understanding of the research topic but also lays a solid foundation for a successful thesis or project. To ensure consistency and quality, the School of Economics provides detailed guidelines for writing academic research proposals and theses.
This blog explores the Kenyatta University research proposal format, focusing on its structure, essential components, and practical tips to help students excel in their academic writing.
Why Follow the Kenyatta University Research Proposal Format?
The primary purpose of adhering to a standardized format is to promote clarity, organization, and professionalism in academic research. The guidelines provided by the School of Economics ensure that all proposals:
- Meet academic standards: By following the structure, your proposal will meet the expectations of the university and academic supervisors.
- Demonstrate thoroughness: Each section of the format is designed to ensure that your research is well-planned and addresses all critical aspects of the study.
- Simplify evaluation: A standardized format makes it easier for supervisors and reviewers to assess your proposal effectively.
Let’s break down the format step by step.
Part I: Structure of the Research Proposal
The research proposal is divided into several sections, each serving a specific purpose. Below is a detailed explanation of each section.
A) Title Page
The title page is the first impression of your research proposal. It includes the following key elements:
Title:
- The title should be a concise statement of the main topic, clearly identifying the variables.
- Avoid redundancies such as “A study of…” or “An investigation of…”.
- Abbreviations should not appear in the title.
- Scientific names should be italicized.
- Ideally, the title should be between 12 to 15 words.
Example: “The Impact of Financial Literacy on Savings Behavior in Rural Kenya”
Author’s Name and Affiliation:
- Use your full name, avoiding initials or titles such as “Dr.” or “Prof.”
- Affiliation should follow this format:
“A research proposal submitted to the Department of [Name] in the School of [Name] in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of [Name] of Kenyatta University.”
- Include the month and year at the bottom of the page.
Formatting Tip: Ensure the title, author, and affiliation are centered on one page.
B) Declaration
This section includes a declaration by both the student and the supervisor.
Student’s Declaration:
- State that the proposal is your original work and has not been presented elsewhere for a degree.
- Include your name, qualifications, signature, and date.
Supervisor’s Declaration:
- A statement confirming that the proposal has been approved for submission.
- Include the supervisor’s name, signature, and date.
Note: Paginate starting from the declaration page using Roman numerals (e.g., i, ii, iii).
C) Abstract
The abstract is a summary of your proposal, providing an overview of the entire study in not more than 500 words. It should include:
- A brief problem statement.
- The objectives of the study.
- The target population, sampling technique, and sample size.
- Research instruments and data collection methods.
- Data analysis techniques.
- Key findings (if applicable) and recommendations.
Formatting Tip: Write the abstract as a single paragraph with single line spacing.
D) Table of Contents
The table of contents provides a roadmap for your proposal. It should include:
- Chapter titles in uppercase and bold.
- Subheadings in title case.
- Page numbers for each section.
- Lists of tables, figures, and abbreviations (if applicable).
Example:
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ........................................... 1
1.1 Background ......................................................... 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem .................................... 2
REFERENCES ............................................................. 15
APPENDICES ............................................................ 16
E) List of Tables and Figures
If your proposal includes tables and figures, list them in this section. Label tables and figures based on the chapters in which they appear (e.g., Table 1.1 for the first table in Chapter One).
F) Abbreviations and Acronyms
Provide a list of all abbreviations and acronyms used in your proposal.
G) Operational Definitions of Terms
Define any uncommon terms or concepts specific to your study to ensure clarity.
Chapter One: Introduction
The introduction lays the foundation of your research proposal. It contains the following sections:
1.1 Background
- Provide a detailed description of the background and context of your study.
- Highlight the main issues your research seeks to address, including global and local perspectives.
- Identify gaps in existing knowledge or policy.
Tip: Use relevant statistics or evidence to support your arguments.
Length: Approximately 4-6 pages.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
- Clearly describe the problem your research seeks to address.
- Answer key questions such as:
- What is the problem?
- Why is it a problem?
- What are the adverse consequences if the problem is not addressed?
- Use evidence from the background to support your problem statement.
Length: Maximum 1-1.5 pages.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
- One general objective aligned with the title.
- Several specific objectives that relate to the variables being investigated.
1.4 Research Questions
- Develop research questions that correspond to your specific objectives.
- Ensure they are concise and numbered (i, ii, iii).
1.5 Significance of the Study
Explain the importance of your research and how it will benefit:
- Policymakers.
- Academia.
- The target population.
1.6 Scope of the Study
Define the boundaries of your research, including:
- Geographical location.
- The target population.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
(Optional for proposals but mandatory in the final thesis)
- Identify challenges you anticipate or encountered during the research.
Chapter Two: Literature Review
The literature review demonstrates your understanding of existing research. It includes:
2.1 Introduction
- Briefly introduce what the chapter covers.
2.2 Theoretical Literature
- Review relevant theories chronologically, linking them to your research objectives.
2.3 Empirical Literature
- Summarize past studies, their methodologies, and findings.
- Identify gaps in the existing literature.
2.4 Critique of Existing Literature
- Analyze strengths and weaknesses of the reviewed studies.
2.5 Research Gaps
- Highlight the gaps your research intends to address.
Chapter Three: Methodology
The methodology outlines how you will conduct your research. It includes:
3.1 Research Design
- Specify the type of research (e.g., descriptive, exploratory) and justify your choice.
3.2 Theoretical Framework
- Use economic theories to analyze the research problem and model relationships between variables.
3.3 Estimating Model/Model Specification
- Specify the econometric model and justify its use.
- Discuss potential econometric challenges and how you will address them.
3.4 Definition and Measurement of Variables
- Define each variable and explain how it will be measured.
3.5 Study Area
- Provide a profile of the geographical area.
3.6 Target Population and Sampling
- Identify the target population and justify your sampling technique and sample size.
3.7 Research Instruments
- Describe tools such as questionnaires or interview schedules.
3.8 Data Collection and Analysis
- Explain how data will be collected and analyzed to achieve your objectives.
Appendices
Include additional materials such as:
- Research instruments.
- Letters of introduction.
- Work plan and budget.
Presentation and Formatting Guidelines
The School of Economics emphasizes proper formatting and presentation. Key guidelines include:
Length:
- Proposals should not exceed 30 pages (excluding references).
Font and Spacing:
- Use Times New Roman, size 12, double-spaced.
Margins:
- 50mm on the left and 25mm on the right, top, and bottom.
Referencing Style:
- Use either APA or Harvard referencing consistently.
PowerPoint Presentation:
- Prepare 10-15 slides summarizing your proposal.
- Masters presentations: 15 minutes.
- PhD presentations: 20 minutes.
Conclusion
Adhering to Kenyatta University’s research proposal format for your department, is essential for crafting a well-organized and impactful document. By following the outlined structure, you can effectively communicate your research ideas, demonstrate your understanding of the topic, and set the stage for a successful thesis or project.
Remember, a solid research proposal is the foundation of academic excellence. Take advantage of these guidelines, seek feedback from your supervisors, and embark on your research journey with confidence.
