Research Concept Note structure for Graduate programs.pptx

this power point explains how to write a concept note in research methods

1. Makerere University School of Public Health Name of student Reg No. Program Title of the study 1

2. Introduction (or Background) (1 Slide) Explain the public health importance of the issue globally and locally Support your message with a succinct review of literature on the issue, citing appropriate sources Explain how the issue applies in the context of your study 2

3. Statement of the Problem (1 Slide) Summarize how things are currently State clearly the knowledge discrepancy that necessitates this study Support the above by describing the magnitude of the problem (E.g., How big is the issue, the consequences of not knowing what we do not know, what has been done in the past and the gaps, possible explanatory factors) How your study intends to address the knowledge gap 3

4. Objectives (1 Slide) General Objective: [State one General Objective of the study] Specific Objectives: [State at least two and not more than four Specific Objectives] XXXX YYYY ZZZZ 4

5. Methods (1-2 Slides maximum) (Describe succinctly but clearly; you may use a summary table or bullets) Study Site/Study population: Where wil l the study be conducted? Who will you study (to whom will your findings apply)? (Indicate if multiple/different study populations are needed) Study design: State the main study methods involved. Summarize the study succinctly but sufficiently for someone to know the approaches to be used (Note: Not all studies require epidemiological designs; select methods depending on your objectives) Sample size considerations and Sampling : Given your design, what will you consider in determining a sample size (or sample sizes) for your study population(s) . How will you sample the people/units up to the actual respondent? (Note: Not all study designs require a calculated sample size; Stating the actual sample size is optional) Data collection procedures/Tools: How will you organize and undertake the data collection activities including how you will reach and engage the respondents, and the Tools to be used? Variables and Data analysis: What key variables will you study? What approaches will you use to analyze the data and what type of summary information will you generate? 5