Fluent Essays

Comment by DODS: Be sure to remove all RED instructional content as you draft each chapter and front/back matter pages Also remove the comments before final publication. The title page is not numbered There is no running header in this document Font type and size may be changed if appropriate. See APA Manual section 2.19 for a list of acceptable fonts. To change the font, modify the “ Normal” style in the home ribbon; all other heading levels will update at the same time. Organizational Culture: The Impact on Communication and Job Satisfaction for Financial Advisors in City, State] Your title should reflect research tradition/approach and research design and provide some sense of geographic scope of the study along with key study constructs] by Insert Your Name Here Institution Abstract Comment by DODS: Per APA style, Abstract should be no more than 250 words in a student manuscript Abstract is double spaced with no indentation and no paragraph breaks. Front matter pages are numbered using lower case Roman numerals and are bottom center [This could be the most important paragraph of a study, as its quality, coherence, and richness of information will either attract or distract potential readers and will be a reviewer’s first impression of a researcher’s work. You have up to 250 words to leave that impression. The key purpose of an abstract is to provide a concise, clear summary of the study and how it was conducted. Introduce the study’s problem/opportunity, purpose, and central research question. Lay out for readers the key features of your specific approach to the research (the worldview and assumptions that guided you), the specific qualitative research design(s) you chose (some examples include case study, exploratory, phenomenological, narrative inquiry, digital ethnography). Provide basic information about the nature of your study participants or other types of data sources (e.g., archival data, historical records, organizational reports), and the approach you took to analyzing the data. Inform readers about the key results and findings as well as its significance and implications for practice.] Keywords: provide up to five words or phrases important to the topic that will help readers find the paper during their own database searches [Note that APA 7th edition indicates keywords “can be listed in any order.” (p. 39)] Acknowledgments Comment by DODS: Acknowledgments do not exceed 1 page in length and are drafted after Ch 5 is complete Table of Contents Comment by Library: To update this table of contents, make changes to the headings in the text (not on this page). Then right click on the table and choose “Update Field.” Choose “Update entire table” and click Okay. To add more headings, go to the appropriate location in the text and type in the heading title on a fresh line. Then use the Styles on the Home Ribbon to choose the appropriate level – 1, 2, or 3. Finally, update this table of contents to see the new heading. Chapter 1: Introduction 1 Study Problem/Opportunity 1 Study Purpose 2 Research Question 2 Conceptual Framework 3 Significance of the Study 4 Researcher Positionality and Reflexivity 4 Delimitations and Limitations 5 Definition of Terms 5 Chapter Summary 6 Chapter 2: Review of the Literature 7 Literature Search Strategies 7 [Replace with Research Theme 1 heading] 7 [Replace with Research Theme 2 heading] 8 [Replace with Research Theme 3 heading] 8 [Replace with Research Theme X heading] 8 Gaps in the Literature 8 Conclusions 8 Chapter Summary 9 Chapter 3: Methodology, Design and Methods 10 Research Methodology and Design 10 Population, Sample, and Participant Recruitment 10 Data Collection Instrumentation and Procedures 11 Data Analysis Procedures 11 Trustworthiness 11 Ethical Assurances 12 Chapter Summary 12 Chapter 4: Findings 13 Description of the Study Sample 13 Results 14 Discussion of Study Findings 15 Chapter Summary 16 Chapter 5: Discussion and Conclusions 17 Limitations of Study Findings 17 Interpretation of Study Findings 17 Practice Implications of Study Findings 17 Researcher Reflections 18 Recommendations for Further Research 18 Conclusion 19 References 20 Appendix A: [Insert title] 21 Appendix B: [Insert title] 22 Appendix C: [Insert title] 23 List of Tables (Include only as needed. In the qualitative tradition the use of tables tends to be minimized and table types can vary in relation to research approach, design, and methods. Tables may include numeric and/or textual elements. APA cautions that over-use of tables as a replacement for strong narrative depiction of results and findings may confuse readers/reviewers. Refer to APA 7th edition, chapter 7 for guidance and examples.) Table 1 Table label # Table 2 Table label # Table 3 Table label # List of Figures (Include only as needed. In the qualitative tradition the use of figures can vary in relation to research approach, design, and methods. APA cautions that over-use of figures as a replacement for strong narrative depiction of results and findings may confuse readers/reviewers. Refer to APA 7th edition, chapter 7 for guidance and examples.) Figure 1 Figure label # Figure 2 Figure label # Figure 3 Figure label # viii Chapter 1: Introduction Comment by DODS: Page numbering for Chapter 1 begins with page 1 at upper right This heading is using the Style APA Level 1. It will appear in the table of contents. Use title case. You may adjust the wording but be careful not to lose the style formatting. [Chapter 1 begins with an introduction that serves as the background to the study problem/opportunity. The introduction clearly guides a reader to the necessary background information and scholarship necessary to understand the study problem/opportunity. Inferences related to the research focus from professional practice must also be cited by the relevant scholarship for the background information. The introduction should be no more than 2-2 1/2 pages in length.] [: APA 7th edition reinforces three elements related to writing style that are pertinent here at the beginning: (1) Section 4.13 Active and Passive Voice mentions that both are permitted in APA Style, but that writers are encouraged to use active voice as much as possible. Additional details are offered in this section. (2) Section 4.16 First- Versus Third-Person Pronouns says, “To avoid ambiguity in attribution, use the first person rather than the third person when describing the work you did as part of your research and when expressing your own views. If you are writing a paper by yourself, use the pronoun ‘I’; do not use the pronoun ‘we’ to refer to yourself if you do not have coauthors” (APA 7th edition, p. 120 of print version). (3) Section 1.2, which addresses scholarly writing and reporting principles points out that “[q]ualitative reports…are typically presented in a reflexive, first-person style…” (APA 7th edition, p. 6 of print version). Please also note, however, that traditions and conventions of peer-reviewed literature related to a field must be balanced alongside this guidance.] Study Problem/Opportunity Comment by Library: This heading is using the Style APA Level 2. It will appear in the table of contents. Use title case. You may adjust the wording but be careful not to lose the style formatting. [Make clear this is a practice-based problem/opportunity (NOTE: choose ‘problem’ OR ‘opportunity’) well supported by current scholarship. The problem/opportunity section is one paragraph of text (not multiple paragraphs) of no more than 250-350 well-supported words to describe the study problem/opportunity of focus with citation. It is a requirement that research study problem/opportunity to be both practice-based and scholarship-supported, so the description of the problem/opportunity must include both practice considerations and cite the current research. A quality paper presents a well-aligned problem/opportunity, purpose and research question, clearly articulated, and substantiated through citation of the appropriate theoretical, conceptual, and empirical peer-reviewed literature. This section begins with the sentence: The problem/opportunity is…] The problem is… [Once again: choose “problem” OR “opportunity”] Study Purpose [Ensure an appropriate study/approach and research design are presented within the purpose statement. This section begins with the sentence to introduce the study: The purpose of this qualitative (research design) study is to… Following the study purpose sentence, this section will introduce a brief rationale for why a qualitative approach and specific research design were selected, followed by research site, target population, sampling method, proposed sample size, data collection method, data analysis method, and the qualitative data analysis (QDA) software to be used, if the researcher plans to employ QDA software. If the researcher chooses not to use QDA software it should be noted that a specific manual process was used. The section will close with a statement of the potential contributions of the study findings to professional practice and the scholarship.] The purpose of the … Research Question [One overarching research question will guide the study. An introduction to the question will be offered here and the question will be formatted as a Level 3 APA header as shown below. Clear alignment must be demonstrated between the problem/opportunity, purpose, and research question.] The study research question…. Q1 [Phrasing for the research question must align with the traditions and conventions of the qualitative tradition/approach and the research design choice.] Conceptual Framework [The conceptual framework provides an illustration of interrelated ideas or key concepts related to your topic, and it is often organized using existing models or theories you will apply in the study. Simply put, the conceptual framework is the lens through which the study problem/opportunity is viewed. It therefore is relevant to the entire study and is comprised of the key ideas that drive your argument about the importance of the research topic as well as the relationships between/among these key ideas. Unlike a higher degree, where the study intends to build new theory or test an existing theory, an expert study applies models and/or theory to an existing practice-based, scholarship-supported problem/opportunity. The conceptual framework is presented in narrative form, but if you choose to do so the narrative can be visually enhanced with a figure (i.e., graphical depiction or diagram). If you include a figure, position it directly after the narrative explanation. This section is typically 1-2 pages in length, depending upon whether a figure is included.] Figure X Figure Title in Title Case and Italics. [If you choose to include a figure to illustrate the conceptual framework, place it here.] Note. [Other required figure details.] Comment by Library: If needed, a figure or table note appears under the figure or table. Start with “Note.” in italics. Remove this line if no note is needed. Significance of the Study [In this section, the original contribution of the study is articulated with respect to both the current scholarship and professional practice. This section is approximately ½ to 1 page in length.] Researcher Positionality and Reflexivity [In this section the researcher is expected to briefly discuss their relationship to their research topic, i.e., how they think about it, what motivates them to engage with a specific topic, and why it is important to them from a scholar-practitioner perspective. Researchers must be cognizant of anything that could compromise their study’s efficacy. In the realm of the scholar-practitioner study the importance of this is magnified by the possibility that the researcher may have a connection to the research phenomenon that includes a relationship with/to an industry, a specific research site, and/or the study participants, any of which could impact the study outcome. Paying attention to these factors begins with awareness of positionality (i.e., researcher background, values, professional practice) and reflexivity (i.e., ongoing reflections from beginning to end of the study). A researcher’s positionality can influence decisions about research processes including design, data collection, data analysis, recognition of what counts as a meaningful finding, interpretation of findings, and reporting of results, regardless of the specific research approach (i.e., quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods) or the research design. This section should be 1-2 paragraphs and focus on researcher reflections about whether and how their background could influence their research, as well as what their plans are for managing these factors.] Delimitations and Limitations [Write this section in two paragraphs, one for delimitations and one for limitations. Delimitations delineate the boundaries of a study by specifying what the researcher is and is not including in their study plan (e.g., a specific geographic area, a certain type of participant) and offers a rationale. Limitations indicate for readers the weaknesses in the research design and/or methods chosen for the study. Where limitations are concerned, state the known weaknesses, and indicate what will be done, when possible, to reduce them. Note that in chapter 5, limitations will be revisited with respect to the study findings and therefore this section may need to be revised at that time; however, these are anticipated limitations whereas the chapter 5 discussion is of limitations realized after the study is completed.] Definition of Terms [Insert a brief one-paragraph introduction to this section to introduce all operational definitions for the key terms used in your study. The definitions should be listed in alphabetical order. Terms used to describe your research design and/or methods are not included here. Remain focused on the key operational terms a reader must know to understand your research study. All terms are defined as complete sentences and the term must be included in the definition. Where appropriate, provide a citation from a credible source.] [Replace with Term 1] Begin term definition on the next line, indented, and ensure term is included in the term definition. [Replace with Term 2] Begin term definition on the next line, indented, and ensure term is included in the term definition. Chapter Summary [Close chapter with a concise summary of the chapter contents] Chapter 2: Review of the Literature [Introduction includes a restatement of the study purpose and problem/opportunity (Reminder: pick ‘problem’ OR ‘opportunity’), a brief re-introduction of the study framework, and a transition into the literature search strategies section. Be sure to review the relevant theoretical, conceptual, and seminal writings with an emphasis on empirical peer-reviewed literature as well as pertinent grey literature. A typical chapter 2 will be around 26 pages in length and include 90-100 sources from within the last 5 years, but this can vary by research topic and discipline (e.g., for a relatively new topic area, such as in computer science, source availability could be much lower whereas well-established topics are rich in sources).] Literature Search Strategies [A full description of the literature search strategies employed to source the literature for Chapter 2 must include all academic databases used for sourcing, all keywords and key phrases used, and a description of any other systematic processes used to source the current and seminal scholarship related to the study problem/opportunity. This section is typically no more than 2-3 full paragraphs and closes with a clear transition to the literature review that follows.] [Replace with Research Theme 1 heading] [All literature reviewed in the chapter is organized under specific research theme headings. Note that there is a ‘through line’ that travels from your central research question, through your conceptual framework, through your literature review, and through the thematic elements that are key to your research topic and research effort. Thus, your literature review is as much a part of an argument-building process for your study as it is a product (i.e., chapter). Doing your literature review allows you to discern the ‘conversation’ scholars are already having about your topic (or a closely related topic) and to become aware of the various approaches other researchers have taken to thinking about the research problem/opportunity you are now pursuing. Each section heading for this chapter is formatted as a Level 2 APA header and defines the focus of the literature reviewed in the respective section.] [Replace with Research Theme 2 heading] [Replace with Research Theme 3 heading] [Replace with Research Theme X heading] Gaps in the Literature [Identify the gaps (missing pieces of information) determined from the literature review that exist where an area of research is revealed to have been under-explored or ignored. The goal of this section is to report, based on your review of literature, those existing gaps that support your assertion it is necessary for research related to your practice-based research problem/opportunity to be conducted.] Conclusions [Present the overarching conclusions drawn from the literature review in this section and cite the respective literature reviewed to support these conclusions. Based on your identification of gaps in the literature, this section presents the argument that your proposed study is needed to address a specific gap you have identified.] Chapter Summary [Close chapter with a concise summary of the chapter contents] Chapter 3: Methodology, Design and Methods [Introduction content to Chapter 3 directly follows the Chapter 3 heading (there is no level 2 introduction header). The introduction is approximately 1/2 to 3/4 of one page in length. The introduction restates the study purpose sentence from chapter 1, a brief cited restatement of the study problem/opportunity from chapter 1, and a brief restatement of the conceptual framework for the study from chapter 1.] Research Methodology and Design [This section presents a continuation of the brief research rationale from the Purpose section in Chapter 1 to fully describe the qualitative research tradition/approach and paradigmatic perspectives (e.g., post-positivist, constructivist/interpretive, transformational, pragmatic) that justify the choice of the research design (e.g., case study, ethnography, exploratory, historical, narrative, phenomenology) and methods (population/sample, participant recruitment, data collection/analysis) as appropriate to address the study problem/opportunity. In addition, a justification is provided for how and why the research design aligns with the degree discipline (e.g., DM, DCS) and is supported by the current scholarship of the discipline.] The qualitative research design selected for this study is… Population, Sample, and Participant Recruitment [In this section, describe the study target population in detail and note the estimated size of the population. The target population is framed in reference to study criteria. The target population should be presented in the first paragraph with no mention of sample. The sample is mentioned in the subsequent paragraph. Restate the study research setting from Chapter 1 and note the sampling method to be used with sufficient rationale. Propose the minimum sample size and describe the procedures for sampling. In a third paragraph provide a brief discussion of how the sample will be recruited.] Data Collection Instrumentation and Procedures [Present the data collection instrument, when appropriate, and cite the appendix where the instrument can be found. Discuss the origins or creation of the data collection instrument. State if permission was obtained to use an existing collection instrument, as applicable. In qualitative interviews, observations and documents are frequently used in combination and there is increasing use of images, video and audio recordings. Support the choice(s) of the data collection method(s) with a clear rationale for the choice(s) in relation to the qualitative tradition/approach and the specific research design chosen. Data collection procedures should include enough detail that a different researcher could replicate the study.] Data Analysis Procedures [Present the data analysis method to be used to analyze the data gathered and support the choice of data analysis method with a clear rationale in relation to the research design. Data analysis procedures should include enough detail that a different researcher could replicate the study. Present the process in sequential order. Note that some qualitative researchers rely on QDA software as a support to the data analysis process whereas others prefer a more ‘traditional’ hands-on approach. Whichever road you travel provide a detailed map of your analytical processes.] Trustworthiness [For qualitative studies, the language of trustworthiness typically replaces the more traditional concepts of validity and reliability. To establish the trustworthiness of your research, present a rationale, accompanied by sufficient detail, for how each of the four criteria for assurance of data trustworthiness are met (credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability) in your study.] Ethical Assurances [In this section, present a summary of the assurances used to support the ethical principles in accordance with minimizing risk to any respective human subjects, alignment with ethical research expected within the program discipline, and the potential benefits of study findings to the discipline. Be sure to address the ethical assurances for responsible research. For studies with further social value beyond the practice-based problem/opportunity, also present the potential larger benefit to society beyond practice.] Chapter Summary [Close chapter with a concise summary of the chapter contents] Chapter 4: Findings [The introduction to Chapter 4 includes a clear transition into the chapter and the introduction content directly follows the chapter 4 heading with additional heading for the introduction content. The introduction should restate the study purpose and briefly restate the study problem/opportunity with citation as aligned with Chapter 1.] Description of the Study Sample [In this section, restate the target population, sampling method used, and final sample size. The sample can be described in narrative form; however, the narrative is sometimes accompanied by a table in qualitative studies. Provide an APA 7th edition formatted and appropriate demographic characteristics table based on frequency table examples provided in chapter 7 of APA 7th edition (see Table 7.2). The study sample typically includes a small number (two will probably suffice) of individuals who meet the inclusion criteria for the study but whose role is to participate in a pilot study, not the study proper. The pilot group participates in the same data collection (e.g., responds to the interview questions in a qualitative study); however, pilot study participant data are used to help refine the data collection protocols, including possible modifications of the interview questions, but the results are not included in the data analyzed to produce the discussion of results or findings.] Table X Title of Table in Title Case and Italics [If used, the table goes here. Use of a table is optional.] Note. [Other required figure details.] Comment by Library: If needed, a figure or table note appears under the figure or table. Start with “Note.” in italics. Remove this line if no note is needed. Results [This section offers the results of data collection for the study and presents readers with a factual description of what emerges from the responses of study participants to the questions asked by the researcher; it is more interested in what the respondents said, than what the researcher thinks the responses mean. (Note that ‘responses’ can also be obtained from narrative and archival sources as well as human participants.) The structure and content should be guided by the conventions and expectations of the specific qualitative tradition/approach and research design selected, and as observed in pertinent published empirical and practice-related literature of the degree program field of study. In qualitative research the most common approach for the display of data results is narrative in form and uses quotations and paraphrases from the data. This is the preferred approach. These narratives normally combine ‘storytelling’ that relies on quotations and/or paraphrases from respondents, ‘wrapped’ together with the researcher’s observations and decisions about how the narrative is organized. A less common approach to the display of results lists representative responses in a table format, and an even lesser used approach employs numeric tables. Tables, whether purely narrative, numeric, or a combination of the two, should be rare or non-existent. APA recommends minimal use of tables in reports of qualitative study results. If the student researcher intends to display data results primarily in table format this decision must be based on evidence from peer-reviewed, recently published qualitative research studies in the student’s degree field and/or topic area. The researcher’s personalized style is considered appropriate in a variety of qualitative research designs and traditions to reflect the depth of the researcher’s involvement in the analysis of the results.] Discussion of Study Findings [Present an analysis of the study findings in context with the current scholarship and synthesized into a coherent discussion that is accompanied by appropriate use of literature (cited) to help frame the findings. The term ‘analysis’ is used here as a point of contrast with the ‘interpretation’ of study findings that occurs in chapter 5. The researcher’s discussion of study findings should be constructed with the goal of providing readers with a clear sense of what the body of data collected for this study ‘means’ in relation to the central research question, as offered by the participants, and as understood by the researcher. Analysis typically involves looking at the whole (the body of data) and then examining the pieces carefully to see how they relate to one another. Themes/patterns/categories are a typical approach for this process of understanding that are reflective of new learnings as well of as relationships to the study’s central research question, conceptual framework and as referenced in current scholarship.] [APA 7th edition note from section 3.13 related to qualitative reporting of study results and discussion of results: “Authors must decide how section should be organized within the context of their specific study. For example, qualitative researchers may combine the Results and Discussion sections because they may not find it possible to separate a given finding from its interpreted meaning within a broader context. Qualitative researchers may also use headings that reflect the values in their tradition (such as ‘Findings’ instead of ‘Results’) and omit those that do not. As long as the necessary information is present, the paper does not need to be segmented into the same sections and subsections as a quantitative paper” (APA 7th edition, p. 94).] Chapter Summary [Close chapter with a concise summary of the chapter contents.] Chapter 5: Discussion and Conclusions Comment by DODS: Please ensure this section aligns with the study and support the topic before submission [The introduction to Chapter 5 includes a clear transition into the chapter and the introduction content directly follows the chapter 5 heading with additional heading for the introduction content. The introduction should restate the study purpose and briefly restate the study problem with citation as aligned with Chapter 1.] Limitations of Study Findings [Present a description of any limitations of the study findings caused by recruitment or sampling challenges, limitations to transferability, limitations of data trustworthiness, or other reasons that may have limited study findings. The discussion will include a justification for the value of the study findings in the context of practice-related research and will make a case for the rigor and relevance of the study findings despite the limitations. Note: Remember to revisit the ‘limitations’ paragraph in the Delimitations and Limitations section in Chapter 1 and reconcile that earlier commentary with what is provided here to ensure consistency.] Interpretation of Study Findings [In the discussion of Study Findings in chapter 4, study results are analyzed with the goal in mind that the researcher is tasked to provide readers with a clear sense of what the body of collected data ‘means’ in relation to the study topic. In this section of chapter 5 the researcher should briefly remind readers of the findings as a bridge to drawing inferences from the emerging knowledge and its relationship to the current scholarship before turning to … Evaluation Rubric Qualitative Proposal Template Section Evaluation Standards Met Not Met Front Matter Title page Formatted per APA 7th ed. guidelines; front matter pages are not in all caps and only the study title is bolded. Title is approximately 12-15 words and reflects method or design and geographic scope of study. ☐ ☐ Abstract Formatted per APA 7th ed. guidelines; first line of Abstract is not indented. Abstract is no more than 250 words and is a concise summary of the study including key findings and recommendations. Keywords are included. ☐ ☐ Table of Contents Table of Contents (TOC) is complete and includes only chapter Level 1 and Level 2 headings. Front matter headings are not included in TOC; back matter headings are included in TOC. ☐ ☐ Lists of Tables/Figures Formatted per APA 7th ed. guidelines; List pages are not included if 1 or less table and/or 1 or less figure is included in manuscript. ☐ ☐ Chapter 1: Introduction Introduction Introduction content directly follows Chapter 1 heading (no level 2 introduction header). Approximately 2 to 2-1/2 pages in length ☐ ☐ Study Problem/Opportunity A focused, practice-based, and scholarship-supported research problem is well situated within the context of the current scholarship and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. ☐ ☐ Study Purpose The study purpose statement presents the study method and design and introduces the study constructs/phenomenon for qualitative study and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. The research setting, target population, sampling frame, sampling method, proposed sample size, data collection, and data analysis methods are briefly introduced. If software is used for data analysis the specific software is also noted. ☐ ☐ Research Question The research question is aligned with the Problem and Purpose and phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. ☐ ☐ Conceptual Framework The conceptual framework is appropriately aligned with the degree program and offers a clear lens through which to view the practice-based problem. An illustration of the framework may accompany the narrative and, if so, it includes an appropriately formatted figure caption. Normally 2 pages. ☐ ☐ Significance of the Study This discussion is well supported with citations from the current scholarship. The original contribution of the study to the existing scholarship is clearly noted. ☐ ☐ Researcher Positionality and Reflexivity Articulates how researcher background, values, profession, assumptions, and biases (positionality) could impact the study, and how ongoing reflection by the researcher during the study process (reflexivity) contributes to transparency for readers. ☐ ☐ Delimitations and Limitations Study delimitations (study boundaries chosen by the researcher) and limitations (factors/influences outside the researcher’s control) are included (maximum 2 paragraphs). ☐ ☐ Definition of Terms Operational Key operational terms presented for the study are defined as used within the scholarship aligned with the program discipline. Citations are required for each definition, and terms common knowledge within the discipline do not need to be included. Terms are presented in alphabetic order and defined using complete sentences. ☐ ☐ Chapter Summary A coherent summary of the chapter contents is presented. ☐ ☐ Chapter 2: Review of the Literature Introduction Approximately 1/2 to 3/4 of one page in length. Restates study purpose and study problem. ☐ ☐ Literature Search Strategies A complete paragraph is presented that describes the literature search strategies used to source the empirical, theoretical, seminal, and grey literature reviewed in the chapter. This description includes all databases, keywords, and key phrases used to source the literature. ☐ ☐ Research Themes The empirical, theoretical, seminal, and grey literature relevant to the practice-based research problem are organized under specific descriptive research theme headings. ☐ ☐ Gaps in the Literature The gaps identified within the literature are described and supported by key authors who have also reported any gaps in the research related to the practice-based research problem. ☐ ☐ Conclusions The overarching conclusions drawn from the literature review are presented in this section and cited by the literature reviewed. This section presents the argument for the need for the proposed study to address the gap(s) within the literature identified. ☐ ☐ Chapter Summary A coherent summary of the chapter contents is presented. No more than 2-3 paragraphs. Note: A typical literature review chapter will be around 22-26 pages in length and incorporate 90-100 sources, but this can vary by research topic and discipline (e.g., for a relatively new topic area, such as in computer science, source availability could be much lower whereas well-established topics are rich in sources). ☐ ☐ Chapter 3: Methodology, Design and Methods Chapter introduction Approximately half to 3/4 of one page in length. Restates study purpose and study problem, and briefly recaps the conceptual framework for the study. ☐ ☐ Research Methodology and Design The methodology and design choices are well justified as appropriate to address the practice-based research problem and are appropriately described within this section. Discussion includes the tenets and principles of the research design chosen for the study. Appropriateness of methods for discipline are discussed. ☐ ☐ Population, Sample and Participant Recruitment Target population and research setting for the study are described. Sampling frame is described along with the rationale for the sampling method to be used. The minimum sample size is well justified. Procedures for sampling and participant recruitment are described (varies where secondary data are used). ☐ ☐ Data Collection Instrumentation and Procedures The data collection instrument is presented and, when appropriate, included as an appendix to this section. The data collection method is supported by a clear rationale for the choice in respect to the study method and design as well as the program discipline. Data collection procedures are well detailed for replication. ☐ ☐ Data Analysis Procedures The data analysis method is supported by a clear rationale for the choice in respect to the study method and design as well as the program discipline (Management/ODC). Data analysis procedures are well detailed for replication. ☐ ☐ Trustworthiness The four criteria that establish the assurances of data trustworthiness are presented and are well described (credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability). ☐ ☐ Ethical Assurances Addresses assurances used to support the ethical principles necessary for minimizing risk to human subjects, alignment with ethical research expected within the program discipline, and potential benefits of study findings to the discipline. Certain studies may have further social value beyond the practice-based problem, and these are also presented. ☐ ☐ Chapter Summary A coherent summary of the chapter contents is presented. No more than 2-3 paragraphs. ☐ ☐ Chapter 4: Findings Introduction Approximately half to 3/4 of one page in length. Restates study purpose and study problem. ☐ ☐ Description of the Study Sample Restates target population, sampling method used, and final sample size. Demographic characteristics for the final sample are presented as relevant in narrative form or by using APA-formatted tables. For secondary/archival data studies with no identifying data, summary of final sample includes description of dataset gathered. ☐ ☐ Results An appropriate presentation of study findings is offered as aligned with APA style and the presentation of findings expected in accordance with the conventions of the discipline and research design employed. ☐ ☐ Discussion of Study Findings An objective analysis of the study findings is presented. Findings are considered in context with the current scholarship and synthesized into a coherent discussion. ☐ ☐ Chapter Summary A coherent summary of the chapter contents is presented. No more than 2-3 paragraphs. ☐ ☐ Chapter 5: Discussion and Conclusions Introduction Approximately half to 3/4 of one page in length. Restates study purpose, a brief cited restatement of study problem, and brief restatement of the conceptual framework for the study. ☐ ☐ Limitations of Study Findings Describe any limitations of the study findings caused by recruitment or sampling challenges, limitations to transferability, limitations of data trustworthiness, or other reasons that may have limited study findings. Justify the value and/or rigor for the study findings despite limitations. ☐ ☐ Interpretations of Study Findings This section continues from the Discussion of the Study Findings analysis in Chapter 4 and describes the contributions of the study findings to the current scholarship and practice. All claims made should be well supported by the findings or current scholarship. ☐ ☐ Practice Implications of Study Findings A coherent, well-organized discussion of the inferences for the application of the study findings to address the problem in relation to practice. ☐ ☐ Researcher Reflections Researcher presents 1-2 paragraphs of reflections on how experience of conducting the research study contributed to shifts in understanding of the topic and its practical applications. ☐ ☐ Recommendations for Further Research The recommendations for future research present the method and design for each recommended study and each recommendation is supported by the study findings and current scholarship. ☐ ☐ Conclusion This section presents a concise summary of the study findings, the applicability of the study findings to practice, and the recommendations for future research. Approximately 2 pages in length. ☐ ☐ Back Matter References Formatted per APA 7th ed. guidelines with a reasonable error rate. ☐ ☐ Appendices Formatted per APA 7th ed. guidelines with a reasonable error rate. Appendices should include, e.g., interview questions and interview protocols but should not include informed consent forms. ☐ ☐ Evaluation Rubric Qualitative Proposal Template Section Evaluation Standards Met Not Met Front Matter Title page Formatt ed per APA 7 th ed. guidelines ; front matter pages are not in all caps and only the study title is bolded . Title is approximately 12 - 15 words and reflects method or design and geographic scope of study. ? ? Abstract Formatted per APA 7 th ed. guidelines; first line of Abstract is not indented. Abstract is no more than 250 words and is a concise summary of the study including key findings and recommendations. Keywords are included. ? ? Table of Contents Table of Contents (TOC) is complete and includes only chapter Level 1 and Level 2 headings. Front matter headings are not included in TOC; back matter headings are included in TOC. ? ? Lists of Tables/Figures Formatt ed per APA 7 th ed. guidelines ; List pages are not included if 1 or less table and/or 1 or less figure is included in manuscript. ? ? Chapter 1 : Introduction Introduction Introduction content directly follows Chapter 1 heading (no level 2 introduction header). Approximately 2 to 2 - 1/2 pages in length ? ? Study Problem /Opportunity A focused , practice - based , and scholarship - supported research problem is well situated w ithin the context of the current scholarship and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. ? ? Study Purpose The study purpose statement presents the study method and design and i ntroduces the study constructs/phenomenon for qualitative study and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. The research setting, target population, sampling frame, sampling method, p roposed sample size, data collection, and data analysis method s are briefly introduced. If software is used for data analysis the specific software is also noted. ? ? Research Question The research question is aligned with the Problem and Purpose and phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study method s. ? ? Conceptual Framework The conceptual framework is appropriately aligned with the degree program and offers a clear lens through which to view the practice - based problem. An illustration of the framework may accompany the narrative and, if so, it includes an appropriately formatted figure caption. Normally 2 pages. ? ? Significance of the Study This discussion is well supported with citation s from the current scholarship. The original contribution of the study to the existing scholarship is clearly noted. ? ? Evaluation Rubric Qualitative Proposal Template Section Evaluation Standards Met Not Met Front Matter Title page Formatted per APA 7 th ed. guidelines; front matter pages are not in all caps and only the study title is bolded. Title is approximately 12- 15 words and reflects method or design and geographic scope of study. ? ? Abstract Formatted per APA 7 th ed. guidelines; first line of Abstract is not indented. Abstract is no more than 250 words and is a concise summary of the study including key findings and recommendations. Keywords are included. ? ? Table of Contents Table of Contents (TOC) is complete and includes only chapter Level 1 and Level 2 headings. Front matter headings are not included in TOC; back matter headings are included in TOC. ? ? Lists of Tables/Figures Formatted per APA 7 th ed. guidelines; List pages are not included if 1 or less table and/or 1 or less figure is included in manuscript. ? ? Chapter 1: Introduction Introduction Introduction content directly follows Chapter 1 heading (no level 2 introduction header). Approximately 2 to 2-1/2 pages in length ? ? Study Problem/Opportunity A focused, practice-based, and scholarship-supported research problem is well situated within the context of the current scholarship and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. ? ? Study Purpose The study purpose statement presents the study method and design and introduces the study constructs/phenomenon for qualitative study and is phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. The research setting, target population, sampling frame, sampling method, proposed sample size, data collection, and data analysis methods are briefly introduced. If software is used for data analysis the specific software is also noted. ? ? Research Question The research question is aligned with the Problem and Purpose and phrased in accordance with the conventions expected by program discipline, research design and study methods. ? ? Conceptual Framework The conceptual framework is appropriately aligned with the degree program and offers a clear lens through which to view the practice- based problem. An illustration of the framework may accompany the narrative and, if so, it includes an appropriately formatted figure caption. Normally 2 pages. ? ? Significance of the Study This discussion is well supported with citations from the current scholarship. The original contribution of the study to the existing scholarship is clearly noted. ? ? Chapter 1. Introduction The study should start with a brief introduction to the entire research study. The introduction should be no longer than one double spaced page. In the proposal stage, the introduction should be a summation of both section 1 and section 2. Include a brief introduction to the study you will conduct. Start with the purpose and scope of the research study. Present what is known about the topic and the identified gap as found in the literature review. Then identify the problem and list the research question. The research study design is then described with the associated analysis to determine the study results. Finally, summarize the study conclusion and list the impact to social change. No citations are used in the introduction because this is a summary of your study. The Background should include the historical background of the problem. Describe the events that led up to the current status of this problem. Use citations to support the historical background. This section is not a summary or review of the literature but should be focused on the applied business problem and the consequences that will result if this problem is not addressed. The background should be no longer than five paragraphs, introduction with thesis statement, 3 supporting paragraphs, and summary and conclusion. Use essay style of writing. Start with an introduction with thesis statement, three supporting points, and a conclusion. All essays should include at least 5 paragraphs. A paragraph is at least FOUR sentences. Paragraph 1: Introduction with thesis statement. Identify three supporting points (no citation). Paragraph 2: Discussion of supporting point 1, events that led up to the current status of this problem (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 3: Discussion of supporting point 2, severity of the problem as experienced by organizations (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 4: Discussion of supporting point 3, consequences to organizations if this problem is not addressed (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 5: Summary of supporting points and conclusion statement of the main topic. This final paragraph should not include new information (no citation). Problem Statement Using the information presented in the Background section, develop the problem statement. The problem statement is a direct statement that defines the problem you will address in your research study. The problem statement should be only one paragraph of 4 sentences and 100 – 200 words. One well-developed sentence for each criterion of the rubric. The Hook is a description of the problem using a peer-reviewed source that proves that a general problem exists. This Hook sentence defines the problem as viewed from a published expert’s perspective. This is a fact used to hook the readers interest. Use a citation from this published expert’s literature to support the statement. The Anchor is an additional statement that supports the previously noted expert’s perspective but includes a number, metric, or measurement of the baseline status of the problem. This numerical fact must come from a reliable source, such as US Census data. Support this statement with a citation from the source. The research study should address a business problem experienced by many organizations. Be specific about listing the general business problem that is experienced by many organizations. The research study must address a problem that other organizations can learn from and adopt or adapt the solution to the organizational problem. This is how the research study impacts social change in society. Identify the specific business problem to be studied as experienced by the organization where you will apply your research. This is the specific area where you will conduct your study. This statement should be about the organization and/or area where you will focus your research study. Study Purpose The purpose statement is a mini story about your research and includes several details about the research. The purpose statement should be should not exceed 250 words and maintain the order of the 6 elements below as much as possible. Place elements a, b, c, d, and e in the first paragraph. Then place element f in a second paragraph described in 3-5 sentences. The purpose statement of the study clearly describes the intent of the investigation and contains the following 6 elements: The research method is identified as qualitative. The introductory sentence used in the purpose statement should include for example, “The purpose of this qualitative study . . . “ Research design is clearly stated. Add to the first sentence with the design. . . “using a correlation design” . . . Research variables briefly identified: independent, dependent (experimental study), or a correlation (relationships, comparison). Also in this first sentence . . . “is to study the relationship between the dependent variable baby deliveries and the independent variable stork population”. . . The specific population group of the proposed study is identified & justified (use of reference). The specific population is also in this first sentence, . . .” specifically the pairs of wood storks located outside city limits . . . The geographic location of study is identified. . . . “in the German state of Lower Saxony” How study might contribute to social change and/or impact business practice. Expand on the first sentence and describe how this research can contribute to a positive influence on social change. Include how the information will contribute to further the body of knowledge of the business topic. Also, include who might benefit from this research and how they may apply this information to improve the problem experienced by the organization. Research Question Using the information written in your problem statement, develop a single paragraph that describes the problem. Develop one clear research question that will guide the data collection of the research study. The Research Question defines why the study is being conducted in a question format (about 10-15 words). This is not an interview question, but the overarching question for the research study. Each study should have one overarching question that encompasses all possible questions. Qualitative studies: This section starts with a declarative statement that identifies the concept, or phenomena under study. For example, this study explores the concept of how. . .? or this study examines the phenomena of why. . .? After a brief introduction. 3-5 sentences, state the research question (about 10-15 words). How, what, and why are good starting words for the qualitative research question. Example: What effect does mentoring, and training have on student success? Conceptual Framework This section is written as an essay. Use 4 or 5 paragraphs in essay format. Use essay style of writing. Start with an introduction with thesis statement, three supporting points, and a conclusion. A paragraph is at least three sentences. · Paragraph 1: Introduction with thesis statement. Identify two or three theories or concepts to guide research (no citation). · Paragraph 2: Discussion of theory or concept 1 (support with citations). · Paragraph 3: Discussion of theory or concept 2 (support with citations). · Paragraph 4: Discussion of theory or concept 3 (if needed) (support with citations). · Create a model of the Conceptual Framework using Insert Smart Art. Include as a figure in proper APA format. · Paragraph 5: Summary of supporting points and conclusion statement of the main topic. This final paragraph should not include new information and no citations. In qualitative studies. Nearly every business discipline has a number of competing concepts or symbolic representations of an abstract idea. These concepts shape research studies based on coherent ideas. A conceptual framework helps to place a study in perspective among other studies. A conceptual framework is used to set limits or boundaries to the study within your research setting. New ideas can be generated from the conceptual framework. Previous research studies using the same conceptual framework suggest the need for further study in specific areas. · Suggest options (both obvious and subtle) for approaching the problem; suggest risks, ramifications, and possible consequences of alternative courses of action; deal with cognitive ideas that affective aspects of the problem. · Describe in detail the selected concepts, how it relates to the study, how it informs the expectations and aspirations of the research and tie it back to the study. · Explain the management concept, author of the concept, date of concept, how the concept has been used in another study, and how the concept is applicable and fits to the study. Use citations to support your writing. Significance of the research Definition of Terms – Operational Terms Chapter Summary CHAPTER 3: Research Method and Research Design · Introduction: Introduce the methodology and design you will use to conduct your study. Justify why you selected this research and design. Provide a logical statement of how this research method and design is appropriate and applies to your business problem statement. Research Method In this section you must conduct a literature review of the methodology you will use in this study, qualitative. · Start with a historical explanation of the origin of using this method. · Expand on the methodology discussion. · Discuss in more detail the author used to assist in the development of your methodology. · Discuss why this method was selected and why other methods were not selected. · Discuss three practitioner studies with a similar topic to your that successfully used this method. Be careful to not use the same wording. · You can use a diagram to discuss how the method will be used for your sample population. A diagram adds comprehension to your discussion. · If using a diagram, and I strongly suggest you do, you will need to discuss your method diagram in great detail. Research Design In this section you must conduct a literature review of the design you will use in this study as introduced in Section 1. · Start with a historical explanation of the origin of using this design. · Expand on the design discussion section. Discuss in more detail the author used to assist in the development of your design. Finally discuss why this design is appropriate to the problem being studied. Discuss why this design was selected and why other designs were not selected. · Discuss three practitioner studies with a similar topic to your that successfully used this method. · Be careful to not use the same wording as in section 1. You can use a diagram to discuss how the design will be used for your research study. · A diagram adds comprehension to your discussion. If using a diagram, and I strongly suggest you do, you will need to discuss your research diagram in great detail. Population · Discuss your total population. Then describe your sample population to use in the research study. · Discuss sample type random, purposive, stratified, or other (cite source of sampling strategy). · Discuss why this sample size if appropriate for your research study (cite source of research similar to yours that used the same sample strategy). Use a sample size calculator if possible. · Discuss how you will select and reach potential participants and mention their geographical location. · Discuss how many participants are needed to have purposeful sample size to be representative of the total population. · Discuss how you will contact and establishing a working relationship with participants. · Discuss what measures you will take to assure that the ethical protection of participants is adequate. Include how you will keep information shared between you and participant confidential. Discuss use of letter of consent form and list where letter is in the Appendix. Describe how coding participant identities and that you will not disclose identities to anyone. · Describe how long data will be kept, where stored and how disposed of when retention is no longer necessary, all with the notion of keeping the identity of the participants protected. · If conducting a research study using historical or archival data and participants are not used in the study, then note that this section is not applicable in your research and why. Note: Leave the first Appendix A for the survey, Appendix B is second survey as in a mixed-methods study. If not mixed methods then Appendix B will be the consent letter, if using mixed-methods then consent form is Appendix C. Check for example of consent form. Population and Sampling · This section is written in an essay format, introduction, body content, and conclusion. The content described comes from the rubric and template. Following these criteria will ensure you meet all the criteria of the rubric for this section. · Describe the population from which the sample will be drawn, this is the total population that the sample will represent, and results and conclusions based on the sample will draw inference to this population. · Describe sampling method (purposeful, random (qualitative), etc. and defend the sampling method by stating why this sampling method is good for your research. You must include a citation when you defend your sample method. For the citation use another research study that used this same sample method for a study that was similar to your proposed research study. · Describe sample size and defend the sample size by stating why this sample size is good for your research. You must include a citation when you defend your sample size. For the citation use another research study that used this same sample size for a study that was similar to your proposed research study. · Describe in detail the eligibility criteria for study participants. Why a person is selected based on knowledge and experience in the study topic. · Describe and explain the relevance of characteristics of the selected sample. Criteria for selecting participants are specified and are appropriate to the study. · There is a justification for the number of participants (in accordance with the qualitative design/approach chosen) which is balanced with depth of inquiry. If appropriate, the rationale for specific types of subjects/representation in sampling is provided. This would apply to sub-groups in your sample. · Criteria for selecting participants and setting are specified and are appropriate to the study. Rich descriptions encouraged. Data Collection, Data Collection Technique, Data Organization Techniques 1. Data Collection – This section presents: · Descriptions of instrumentation or data collection tools to include the name of the instrument, (if using your own, then name it, tape recorder model) · the type of instrument, (questionnaire, survey, list of questions) · concepts measured by the instrument, (list theoretical or conceptual framework) · how scores are calculated and their meaning, (necessary for quantitative) Discuss if using 5 point, 7 point, 10 point Likert scale. · processes for assessment of reliability and validity of the instrument(s), check data entry, compare to sub-group, compare to similar questions, pilot instrument, reliability of transcribed recorded data · processes needed to complete instruments by participants, (step-by-step process participants will use to complete instrument,) · here raw data are or will be available (appendices, tables, or by request from the researcher). Place description of raw data and location, and how you will make this data available to requesters) · Includes a detailed description of data that comprise each variable in the study. List which questions that will be used to research each variable. · Discuss strategies used to address threats to validity, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, among others. Discuss in detail any threats to data collection, discuss controls to ensure data is entered correctly into data analysis tool, data triangulation is using that technique, transcribed data from tape recorder) · Discuss any adjustments or revisions to the use of standardized research instruments that were made. If using a standard or borrowed instrument, list questions, content, demographic or score that is different from the standard, published instrument. · Instrument or copy of permission to use instrument or purchase receipt in Appendix and listed in the Table of Contents. Use Appendix A for instrument. Data Collection Technique. Describe the technique used to collect data such as a survey, interview, observation, site visit, video recording (think recipe card- step by step process and describe richly), Will a pilot study be used prior to the study – if so, describe the process? If using a test pilot describe the sample size, validate the sample size (citation) what you want to learn from the pilot, list additional questions that might be asked of the test pilot participants (i.e. was the survey easy to use, did the interview take too long, any other questions that should be asked, etc.), changes you will make to the instrument based on pilot results, how pilot data will be used to test analysis of the data to answer the research question. Data Organization Techniques. Describe the systems use for keeping track of data and emerging understandings such as research logs, reflective journals, and cataloging/labeling systems. Discuss coding of data, labeling data by participant. Data Analysis – (proposal stage) This section is written as an essay. · List each research question and identify how the data analysis logically and sequentially addresses all research questions · Qualitative study: Describe how data will be analyzed to identify themes and patterns in the data. If using sub-groups, describe how data between and within subgroups will be compared. · Describe in detail any data coding used. Data coding by participant and sub-group should be described in how the data will be displayed. · Finally, overall, explain how the data analysis (presentation, interpretation, explanation) is consistent with the research questions or hypotheses. · Describe how the data relates to theoretical/conceptual framework of the study. Return the discussion to the theoretical (qualitative) or conceptual (qualitative) or both (for mixed methods). Describe how the data analysis will address the theory or concept addressed in the study. Assumption and Limitations Trustworthiness Credibility: Dependability: Transferability: Confirmability: Ethical Assurances In the Ethical Research section you will describe the step-by-step process you will take to ensure your research methods are ethical. Some of this information may be repetitive of information located in the participants section; therefore try to not use the exact same wording as previously used in Participants sub-section. Remember to use essay style of writing with an introduction with thesis statement, supporting points, and summary and conclusion. The consenting process (and include consent form in appendix and list in the Table of Contents) Describe the step-by-step process of how you will acquire consent from the participants. Discuss the content of the consent form, how the consent form will be sent to participants, and how you will collect consent from participants. In what stage of the research study will this be done? Describe how participants may withdraw from the study. The study must include voluntary participation and participants can change their minds and decide to not participate at any time. If you plan to offer a copy of the completed research study to participants you can mention this offer here. Statement that data will be maintained in a safe place for three years to protect rights of participants. Discuss how the data will be protected from disclosure to anyone else. Discuss how the data will be destroyed when the time limit is up. No names of individual organizations/individuals are used. Discuss how you will protect the identity of individuals participating in the study. If anyone other than yourself will have access to the names you must disclose this now (such as a research assistance, data collection service, or data analysis service). If you are using a service to assist with data collection and/or analysis that will have access to participant names and organization information and data then you must have the party(s) sign a Non-disclosure Agreement document. You must discuss the document in this section. Place a copy of the signed document in the appendix and include the document in the table of contents. Chapter Summary Chapter 1 . Introduction The study should start with a brief introduction to the entire research study. The introduction should be no longer than one double spaced page. In the proposal stage, the introduction should be a summation of both section 1 and section 2. Include a brief introduction to the study you will conduct. Start with the purpose and scope of the research study. Present what is known about the topic and the identified gap as found in the literature review. Then identify the problem and lis t the research question. The research study design is then described with the associated analysis to determine the study results. Finally, summarize the study conclusion and list the impact to social change. No citations are used in the introduction becaus e this is a summary of your study. The Background should include the historical background of the problem. Describe the events that led up to the current status of this problem. Use citations to support the historical background. This section is not a summ ary or review of the literature but should be focused on the applied business problem and the consequences that will result if this problem is not addressed. The background should be no longer than five paragraphs, introduction with thesis statement, 3 s upporting paragraphs, and summary and conclusion. Use essay style of writing. Start with an introduction with thesis statement, three supporting points, and a conclusion. All essays should include at least 5 paragraphs. A paragraph is at least FOUR sentenc es. Paragraph 1: Introduction with thesis statement. Identify three supporting points (no citation). Paragraph 2: Discussion of supporting point 1, events that led up to the current status of this problem (support with 2 - 5 peer - reviewed citations). Paragra ph 3: Discussion of supporting point 2, severity of the problem as experienced by organizations (support with 2 - 5 peer - reviewed citations). Paragraph 4: Discussion of supporting point 3, consequences to organizations if this problem is not addressed (suppo rt with 2 - 5 peer - reviewed citations). Paragraph 5: Summary of supporting points and conclusion statement of the main topic. This final paragraph should not include new information (no citation). Problem Statement Using the information presented in the Back ground section, develop the problem statement. The problem statement is a direct statement that defines the problem you will address in your research study. The problem statement should be only one paragraph of 4 sentences and 100 – 200 words. One well - dev eloped sentence for each criterion of the rubric. The Hook is a description of the problem using a peer - reviewed source that proves that a general problem exists. This Hook sentence defines the problem as viewed from a published expert’s perspective. This is a Chapter 1. Introduction The study should start with a brief introduction to the entire research study. The introduction should be no longer than one double spaced page. In the proposal stage, the introduction should be a summation of both section 1 and section 2. Include a brief introduction to the study you will conduct. Start with the purpose and scope of the research study. Present what is known about the topic and the identified gap as found in the literature review. Then identify the problem and list the research question. The research study design is then described with the associated analysis to determine the study results. Finally, summarize the study conclusion and list the impact to social change. No citations are used in the introduction because this is a summary of your study. The Background should include the historical background of the problem. Describe the events that led up to the current status of this problem. Use citations to support the historical background. This section is not a summary or review of the literature but should be focused on the applied business problem and the consequences that will result if this problem is not addressed. The background should be no longer than five paragraphs, introduction with thesis statement, 3 supporting paragraphs, and summary and conclusion. Use essay style of writing. Start with an introduction with thesis statement, three supporting points, and a conclusion. All essays should include at least 5 paragraphs. A paragraph is at least FOUR sentences. Paragraph 1: Introduction with thesis statement. Identify three supporting points (no citation). Paragraph 2: Discussion of supporting point 1, events that led up to the current status of this problem (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 3: Discussion of supporting point 2, severity of the problem as experienced by organizations (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 4: Discussion of supporting point 3, consequences to organizations if this problem is not addressed (support with 2-5 peer-reviewed citations). Paragraph 5: Summary of supporting points and conclusion statement of the main topic. This final paragraph should not include new information (no citation). Problem Statement Using the information presented in the Background section, develop the problem statement. The problem statement is a direct statement that defines the problem you will address in your research study. The problem statement should be only one paragraph of 4 sentences and 100 – 200 words. One well-developed sentence for each criterion of the rubric. The Hook is a description of the problem using a peer-reviewed source that proves that a general problem exists. This Hook sentence defines the problem as viewed from a published expert’s perspective. This is a