Module 4 - Research

Overview | Big Picture | RQS | Design | R&E | Proposal Steps | Resources

Overview

All ITEST projects are research and development projects. The results of ITEST research should contribute knowledge to the field about the innovation or the project being implemented and researched. NSF describes this as the Intellectual Merit of a proposal, i.e., its potential to advance knowledge.

This module presents information about the research design for your ITEST proposal.

In this module, you will:

  • Learn how to present a clear and concise research design that will answer important questions about your proposed project
  • Consider ways to align research designs and evaluation plans

Module format

Each module has the following sections, organized into tabs.

  • The Overview provides module objectives.
  • The Topics cover specific module content. Embedded within each topic tab are activities and assignments designed to build on and support what you have just learned. This module has four topic tabs:
    • Big Picture. Setting up your Research Plan
    • RQS. Identifying a Researchable Question
    • Design. Components of your Research Design
    • R and E. Aligning Research and Evaluation
  • The Proposal Steps tab will summarize the three activities from the previous tabs within the module. It also includes one assignment to complete that will help you write the research section of your proposal.

The Resources tab provides general and specific resources.

Module Review Video:

 

 

Course Homepage

This course is being preserved for historical purposes. While the project has ended, the materials remain highly relevant for proposal development and can still serve as a valuable resource for NSF proposal writers. The course is no longer maintained, and some content may reference past initiatives or deadlines.