FOR PROPOSAL & DBA DOCTORAL STUDY DOCUMENTS
Quality Indicators
Met/Not met
Background —Provides an overview of the context or background of the problem. DBA Doctoral Studies are focused on applied business research. This sets the stage for
the study.
NAThe problem statement
a. Hook (with peer reviewed citation)
b. Anchor (with peer reviewed citation)
c. General business problem
d. Specific business problem to be studied
Problem statement should be 100 – 200 words. Check with Ulrich’s Periodical Directory http://library.waldenu.edu/728.htm to ensure citations are peer reviewed.
Remember 85% of citations must be within 5 years from anticipated graduation
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NAThe purpose statement of the study clearly describes the intent of the research. The Purpose statement is a mini story and should not exceed 250 words and
contains the following six elements:
a. Research method is identified as qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods
b. Research design is clearly stated
c. If quan or mixed method: Research variables briefly identified: independent, dependent (experimental study) or a correlation (relationships, comparison)
d. Specific population group of proposed study is identified & justified
e. Geographic location of study is identified
f. How study might contribute to social change and/or impact a business practice a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
f. NA
Nature of the Study (method/design) — Provides a brief discussion on the research method and design- cite one source (this will be discussed in greater detail in
section 2). State why one method (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) was selected and why other methods would not work. State why one design (within the
method) was selected and why it was selected over other designs. Remember synthesis is important
NAA. Research Question – defines why study is being conducted in a question format (about 10-15 words). This is not the interview questions, but the
overarching question on what will be researched for the study.
B. Hypotheses (quantitative/mixed method only) are formatted in the scientific format of
H1o
H1a
C. List each interview or survey question. Each interview/survey question must contribute knowledge to the research question. Avoid questions with yes/no
answers.
A. NA
B. NA
C. NA
Theoretical or Conceptual Framework is identified — In quantitative studies, the theoretical base is the appropriate term and in qualitative studies the conceptual
framework shows which ideas from the literature ground and complement the business research being conducted. Identify/describe the management theory, author of
theory, date of theory, and how the theory is applicable and fits to the study.
NA
Operational definitions of technical terms, jargon, or special word uses are provided. Terms are listed in alphabetical order in italics. Citations of definitions
must be provided from peer reviewed articles/government websites.
NAAssumptions, Limitations, and Delimitations provide descriptions of:
a. Facts assumed to be true but not actually verified (assumptions),
b. Potential weaknesses of the study (limitations),
c. The bounds of the study (delimitations).
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
The Significance of the Study is described in terms of
a. Why is this study of value to business/social impact,
b. How this study will contribute to effective practice of business,
c. How the results might contribute to positive social change and (improvement of business practice).
This area is important in determining Doc Study of the Year Award-justify well a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
Review of the Professional and Academic Literature
Following elements required:
a. Faculty confirm: The literature review should incorporate a minimum of 60 + peer reviewed references with 85% being published within the last 3 – 5 years of
anticipated graduation. Note, Check with Ulrich’s Periodical Directory (http://library.waldenu.edu/728.htm) if questionable to ascertain if the sources are peer
reviewed. Few, if any quotations.
b. The literature review is well organized (Creswell suggests by chronological order or by major theme). Introduce the purpose of the study and the research question.
Include hypotheses if a quantitative/mixed method study) in the opening narrative.
c. Introduction should include a summary of various sources/content of the literature (websites, books, journals, etc) to convince readers of depth of inquiry.
d. Compare and contrast different points of view and the relationship of the study to previous research and findings (sample size/geographical location variance, etc).
e. Concise summaries of the literature define the most important aspects of the theory for understanding, improved business practice, and which will be examined or
tested for quantitative studies. The summaries substantiate the rationale or theoretical framework for the study that will provide the context for understanding and
explaining the elements for improved business practice (for qualitative studies).
f. There is literature-based description of the research variables (quantitative studies), or potential themes and perceptions to be explored (qualitative studies).
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
f. NASection 1 ends with a transition section that contains a summary of key points of the study and an overview introducing sections two and three are provided.
NA
Section 2
The Project
(FOR PROPOSAL & DBA DOCTORAL STUDY DOCUMENTS)
Quality Indicators Rating
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1. Purpose Statement — Begin Section 2 with a restatement of the business project purpose. Do not copy and paste word for word from Section 1; instead, vary the
language slightly to keep your reader engaged.
NA2. Role of the Researcher — Describe the role of the researcher in the data collection process. Describe any relationship the researcher may have had
with the topic, participants, or area.
NA3. Participants (if any) –
a. Discuss strategies for gaining access to participants
b. how to establish a working relationship with participants,
c. measures to be taken to assure that the ethical protection of participants is adequate.
d. Include data retention plans to protect the rights of the participants are discussed.
Note: If participants are not used in the study, just note N/A and why.
Describe:
a. Population selected for the study.
b. Sampling method (random, purposeful, snowball,…) (define & include citation).
c. Defend sample size (use citation). Consider using a sample size calculator.
d. Reference the confidentiality/consent to participate form ( included in the table of contents, and appendices) a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. Research Method — Identify and justify the use of a specific research method, indicate whether the research project uses quantitative, qualitative, or mixed
methods (hybrid), why it was selected, and why other methods were not selected. Expand on the discussion in Section 1.
Paraphrase and cite from the perspectives of 3 different scholars on method selected for the study.
NAf. Research Design — Identify and justify the use of a specific research design and why other designs were not selected. This is an expansion on the
discussion in Section 1.
Paraphrase and cite 3 scholars on design selected to add strength/justification on your selection.
NAg. Population and Sampling — This section:
(a) Describes the population from which the sample will be drawn
(b) Describes and justifies the sampling method (purposeful, random (quantitative), etc include citation),
(c) Describes and justifies the sample size using citation,
(d) Describes the eligibility criteria for study participants,
(e) 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. DBA policy for phenomenological studies is a minimum of 20
participants.
(g) Criteria for selecting participants and interview setting are specified and are appropriate to the study. Rich descriptions encouraged.
Note: Quantitative researchers must justify sample size calculation
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
f. NA
g. NA
h. Ethical Research – Describe in a rich detail step by step process:
a. The consenting process (and include form in appendix and list in the Table of Contents),
b. Describe how you allow participants to withdraw from the study,
c. Describe incentives, if any, used.
d. Statement that data will be maintained in a safe place for 5 years to protect rights of participants,
e. Agreement documents are listed in the (a) text of the study, (b) appendices and (c) table of contents
Reminder: No names of individual organizations or individuals are used,
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
i. Data Collection – Instruments. This section presents:
(a) Descriptions of instrument data collection tools to include the name of the instrument,
(b) The type of instrument, (5-point Likert, etc)
(c) Concepts measured by the instrument,
(d) How scores are calculated and their meaning,
(e) Processes for assessment of reliability and validity of the instrument(s),
(f) Processes needed for participants to complete instrument,
(g) Describe where raw data will be available (appendices, tables, or by request from the researcher).
(h) Include a detailed description of data that comprise each variable in the study.
(i) Discusses strategies used to address threats to validity, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, among others.
(j) Discuss any adjustments or revisions to the use of standardized research instruments that were made.
(k) Identify where in appendices the Instrument (or copy of permission to use instrument or purchase is located. Ensure Table of Contents lists appendices.
a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
f. NA
g. NA
h. NA
i. NA
j. NA
k. NA
j. Data Collection Technique. Describe the technique used to collect data such as a online/paper survey, interview, observation, site visit, video recording
(think recipe card- step by step process and describe richly).
k. Will a pilot study be used conducted after IRB approval? If so, describe the process. j. NA
k. NAl. Data Organization Techniques. Describe the systems used for keeping track of data, emerging understandings such as research logs, reflective journals, and
cataloging/labeling systems. Remind readers all raw data will be maintained in a locked container for 5 years.
NAm. Data Analysis –
a. List each interview question. Data analysis logically and sequentially addresses all research questions or hypotheses, where appropriate, outcomes of
hypothesis-testing procedures are clearly reported (e.g., findings support or fail to support, and do not contain any evident statistical errors).
b. Describe software to be used and how data will be analyzed, such as using software tools like NVivo, SPSS, Excel. Richly describe the value of this resource.
c. Describe in detail any data coding used.
d. Finally, overall, data analysis (presentation, interpretation, explanation) is consistent with the research questions or hypotheses.
e. Tie in how data relates to theoretical/conceptual framework of the study. a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
Reliability and Validity – Cover the reliability of the instruments, processes, and the study
a. Internal validity,
b. External validity
a. NA
b. NA
Transition and Summary. Section 2 ends with a Transition Statement that contains a summary of key points covered and an overview of what will be covered in section 3.
NAProposal Stage. Before IRB approval, the paper should be written in future tense and after IRB approval, the paper should be changed to past tense.
NAWriting Style – the paper should be written without slang, euphemisms, and anthropomorphisms. NAFollows APA 6th edition in the text and in the reference list NAUses
85% peer reviewed sources published within the past 5-years from the anticipated graduation date. NA
This ends the Proposal section. See the Process Checklist located at the Research Center for next steps
Section 3
(FOR DBA DOCTORAL STUDY DOCUMENTS)
Quality Indicators Rating
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1.Introduction
a. Begins with the purpose statement,
b. Reminds reader of research questions/hypothesis,
c. And a brief summary of the findings. a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
2. Presentation of Findings:
a. List each research question and include conclusions,
b. Findings are addressed by the evidence collected,
c. Relates the findings to a larger body of literature on the topic,
d. Ties findings to the conceptual/theoretical framework,
e. Ties findings or disputes findings to the existing literature on effective business practice. a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
d. NA
e. NA
3. Application to Professional Practice — There is a detailed discussion on the applicability of the findings with respect to the professional practice of
business. This major sub-section provides academic argument in detail why and how the findings are relevant to improved business practice.
Note: This is an important area for Doc Study of the Year Award
NA4. Implications for Social Change.
The implications are expressed in terms of tangible improvements to individuals, communities, organizations, institutions, cultures, or societies as it relates to
social change/behaviors.
Note: This is an important area for Doc Study of the Year Award
NA5. Recommendations for Action
a. Should flow logically from the conclusions and contain steps to useful action?
b. State who needs to pay attention to the results and
c. Indicate how the results might be disseminated using the literature/conferences, training, etc. a. NA
b. NA
c. NA
6. Recommendations for Further Study
List recommendations for further study as they relate to future studies related to improved practice in business.
NA7. Reflections
Includes a reflection on the researcher’s experience with the research process in which the researcher discusses possible personal biases or preconceived ideas and
values, the possible effects of the researcher on the participants or the situation, and her/his changes in thinking because of the study.
NA8. The work closes with a strong concluding statement making the “take-home message” clear to the reader. NA
Abstract contains the following elements:
(FOR DBA DOCTORAL STUDY DOCUMENTS)
Quality Indicators Rating
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The format and content information of the Abstract is located in the Research Center:
http://researchcenter.waldenu.edu/Abstract-Assistance-for-all-programs-with-research-capstones.htm
Abstract Guidance for DBA Doctoral Studies: abstract guidelines, abstract primer, abstract primer (video)
Attention: The abstract is the most important page in the document as it is the window into the quality of a doc study. An abstract cannot exceed 1 page. It is not
indented. See figure 2.1/2.04 of the APA, 6th edition manual. You should also read recently approved DBA Doc Study abstracts to ensure you can pass the CAO review the
first look.
The following elements must be included in the abstract:
1. Identify the method AND design used
2. List the problem “explored” (if qualitative) or “examined” (if quan or mixed) in one sentence
3. Identify how the conceptual or theoretical frame work connected to your study (use lower case letters for the name of the theory)
4. Research question used
5. Specific identification of the participants
6. Identify how the data was collected (i.e. online survey/interview, content analysis, etc)
7. Identify the software that was used to analyze the data
8. Identify results or 2-3 themes that morphed from the study
9. Address how the study might contribute to social change and help business environments NA