FinalResearchForGradStats
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Grand Canyon University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
520
Subject
Psychology
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
13
Uploaded by BrigadierTitanium8616
1
Research Question Plan
Kaarthik Chandrashaker
College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Grand Canyon University
PSY 520: Graduate Statistics
Dr.
Jim Dudleston
July 15, 2023
2
Research Question Plan
Conventional teacher-led instruction continues to be the prevailing approach in the
majority of elementary mathematics classrooms (Wu et al., 2020; Boaler, 2016). However,
studies conducted in Taiwan by Yeh et al. (2019) have shed light on the limitations of this
traditional instructional method, indicating that many students struggle with mathematics and
experience a loss of interest. Consequently, there is a recognized and pressing need for change
and improvement in mathematics education.
Enhancing students' mathematics achievement and interest, particularly among low-
achieving students, has emerged as a significant challenge (Amey, 2017; Hiebert & Grouws,
2007). One potential solution to address this challenge is curriculum change, which holds the
potential to better cater to students' needs and foster a deeper understanding of mathematics
(Boaler, 2016; English, 2008). In light of this, a research study is proposed to investigate the
impact of curriculum change on 5th-grade students' performance in mathematics.
The research question that will guide this study is as follows: How does curriculum
change influence students' performance in 5th-grade mathematics? To address this question, it is
necessary to formulate a clearly defined null hypothesis and alternative hypothesis (Witte &
Witte, 2017). The null hypothesis states that there is no significant difference in the mean
performance of students before and after the curriculum change (H0: μ1 = μ2). Conversely, the
alternative hypothesis suggests that there is a significant difference in the mean performance of
students before and after the curriculum change (HA: μ1 ≠ μ2).
To answer the research question and test the hypotheses, a combination of qualitative and
quantitative data need to be collected (Galletta, 2013). Quantitative data, in the form of interval
3
or ratio scales, will be collected to examine the significant difference in the mean performance of
5th-grade students before and after the curriculum change (Witte & Witte, 2017). Additionally,
qualitative data will be collected through recordings and open-ended questionnaires to provide
supplementary insights and support the quantitative findings (Bandura, 1997; Creswell, 2014).
The chosen statistical test for this study is the dependent group t-test (Witte & Witte,
2017). This test is appropriate because it compares the means of two related groups (i.e., the
same sample of students before and after the curriculum change) to determine if there is a
statistically significant difference between them (Witte & Witte, 2017; Hinkle et al., 2003).
Descriptive statistics will be employed to visually represent the mean performance of
students before and after the curriculum change (Creswell, 2014). The output of the dependent
group t-test will be presented to discuss the significance of the test, with a predetermined
significance level of 0.05 (Witte & Witte, 2017; Field, 2013). If the p-value is found to be less
than the significance level, the null hypothesis will be rejected, indicating a significant difference
in student performance. Conversely, if the p-value exceeds the significance level, the null
hypothesis will be retained (Witte & Witte, 2017; Field, 2013).
When reporting the findings of the study, the results will be summarized, and their
implications will be discussed (Creswell, 2014; Hinkle et al., 2003). Throughout the research
process, potential ethical dilemmas may arise, such as issues of informed consent,
confidentiality, and safeguarding the well-being of participants (Garet et al., 2001; Johnson et al.,
2018). To address these concerns, proper ethical guidelines and protocols will be followed,
ensuring that informed consent is obtained from all participants involved in the study (Garet et
al., 2001). This will involve providing detailed information about the study's purpose,
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
4
procedures, and potential risks and benefits to the participants or their guardians, depending on
their age. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision
about their involvement.
Confidentiality measures will be implemented to protect the privacy and anonymity of
the participants (Johnson et al., 2018). Data collected will be stored securely and accessed only
by authorized researchers. Personal identifiers will be removed or coded to ensure that individual
participants cannot be identified in any published or presented results. The confidentiality of the
participants' responses and information will be upheld throughout the study.
Additionally, steps will be taken to ensure the well-being and safety of the participants
throughout the research process (Garet et al., 2001). This includes providing a supportive and
respectful environment for students, ensuring that they feel comfortable and valued during data
collection. Researchers will monitor the emotional well-being of the participants, and any
concerns or potential risks will be promptly addressed. In cases where the study may involve
sensitive topics or activities, appropriate support systems or resources will be made available to
participants.
The use of multiple references in this research proposal strengthens its credibility and
ensures that the study is grounded in existing literature. Wu et al. (2020) and Boaler (2016)
provide insights into the prevalence of conventional teacher-led instruction in elementary
mathematics classrooms, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Yeh et al. (2019)
contribute valuable findings from a study conducted in Taiwan, which specifically address the
challenges faced by students under this instructional approach.
5
Chapman et al. (2020) and Hiebert & Grouws (2007) shed light on the need to enhance
mathematics achievement and interest, particularly among low-achieving students. Their
research emphasizes the importance of finding effective strategies to engage and support students
who are struggling in mathematics. The references to Boaler (2016) and English (2008) support
the idea of curriculum change as a potential solution to address these challenges. They provide
insights into the benefits of adopting innovative and student-centered approaches to mathematics
education.
Amey (2017) contributes to the analysis by emphasizing the importance of closing the
STEM skills gap, which aligns with the goal of enhancing students' mathematics achievement.
The study explores the sector response to addressing this gap and emphasizes the need for
effective strategies in STEM education. Incorporating insights from Amey's research strengthens
the proposal's understanding of the broader context and the significance of the proposed study in
contributing to STEM education.
Witte & Witte (2017) provide guidance on formulating null and alternative hypotheses, as
well as selecting the appropriate statistical test. Their work contributes to the methodological
rigor of the proposed study. Galletta (2013) emphasizes the importance of collecting both
qualitative and quantitative data, highlighting the complementary nature of these data sources.
Bandura (1997) and Creswell (2014) offer insights into data collection techniques and analysis,
supporting the inclusion of qualitative methods in this study.
The choice of the dependent group t-test as the statistical test is supported by Witte &
Witte (2017) and Hinkle et al. (2003), who highlight its suitability for comparing means in
6
related groups. This statistical test will allow for a direct comparison of student performance
before and after the curriculum change.
Field (2013) contributes to the discussion by emphasizing the significance level and
interpreting the p-value. By adhering to a predetermined significance level of 0.05, the study will
establish a threshold for determining statistical significance. The interpretation of the p-value
will enable researchers to make informed decisions regarding the acceptance or rejection of the
null hypothesis.
When reporting the findings of the study, the results will be summarized, and their
implications will be discussed (Creswell, 2014; Hinkle et al., 2003). Throughout the research
process, potential ethical dilemmas may arise, such as issues of informed consent,
confidentiality, and safeguarding the well-being of participants (Garet et al., 2001; Johnson et al.,
2018). To address these concerns, proper ethical guidelines and protocols will be followed,
ensuring that informed consent is obtained from all participants involved in the study (Garet et
al., 2001). This will involve providing detailed information about the study's purpose,
procedures, and potential risks and benefits to the participants or their guardians, depending on
their age. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision
about their involvement.
Confidentiality measures will be implemented to protect the privacy and anonymity of
the participants (Johnson et al., 2018). Data collected will be stored securely and accessed only
by authorized researchers. Personal identifiers will be removed or coded to ensure that individual
participants cannot be identified in any published or presented results. The confidentiality of the
participants' responses and information will be upheld throughout the study.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
7
Additionally, steps will be taken to ensure the well-being and safety of the participants
throughout the research process (Garet et al., 2001). This includes providing a supportive and
respectful environment for students, ensuring that they feel comfortable and valued during data
collection. Researchers will monitor the emotional well-being of the participants, and any
concerns or potential risks will be promptly addressed. In cases where the study may involve
sensitive topics or activities, appropriate support systems or resources will be made available to
participants.
The use of multiple references in this research proposal strengthens its credibility and
ensures that the study is grounded in existing literature. Wu et al. (2020) and Boaler (2016)
provide insights into the prevalence of conventional teacher-led instruction in elementary
mathematics classrooms, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Yeh et al. (2019)
contribute valuable findings from a study conducted in Taiwan, which specifically address the
challenges faced by students under this instructional approach.
Chapman et al. (2020) and Hiebert & Grouws (2007) shed light on the need to enhance
mathematics achievement and interest, particularly among low-achieving students. Their
research emphasizes the importance of finding effective strategies to engage and support students
who are struggling in mathematics. The references to Boaler (2016) and English (2008) support
the idea of curriculum change as a potential solution to address these challenges. They provide
insights into the benefits of adopting innovative and student-centered approaches to mathematics
education.
Amey (2017) contributes to the analysis by emphasizing the importance of closing the
STEM skills gap, which aligns with the goal of enhancing students' mathematics achievement.
8
The study explores the sector response to addressing this gap and emphasizes the need for
effective strategies in STEM education. Incorporating insights from Amey's research strengthens
the proposal's understanding of the broader context and the significance of the proposed study in
contributing to STEM education.
Witte & Witte (2017) provide guidance on formulating null and alternative hypotheses, as
well as selecting the appropriate statistical test. Their work contributes to the methodological
rigor of the proposed study. Galletta (2013) emphasizes the importance of collecting both
qualitative and quantitative data, highlighting the complementary nature of these data sources.
Bandura (1997) and Creswell (2014) offer insights into data collection techniques and analysis,
supporting the inclusion of qualitative methods in this study.
The choice of the dependent group t-test as the statistical test is supported by Witte &
Witte (2017) and Hinkle et al. (2003), who highlight its suitability for comparing means in
related groups. This statistical test will allow for a direct comparison of student performance
before and after the curriculum change.
Field (2013) contributes to the discussion by emphasizing the significance level and
interpreting the p-value. By adhering to a predetermined significance level of 0.05, the study will
establish a threshold for determining statistical significance. The interpretation of the p-value
will enable researchers to make informed decisions regarding the acceptance or rejection of the
null hypothesis.
When reporting the findings of the study, Creswell (2014) and Hinkle et al. (2003)
provide guidance on summarizing and discussing the results. Clear and concise summaries of the
statistical analyses will be presented, along with relevant figures and tables to support the
9
interpretation of the findings. The implications of the results will be discussed in relation to the
research question, taking into account the existing literature and theoretical frameworks. The
study will consider the potential impact of the curriculum change on students' performance and
explore the implications for mathematics education.
Throughout the research process, it is essential to uphold ethical standards and ensure the
well-being of the participants. Garet et al. (2001) and Johnson et al. (2018) provide valuable
insights into addressing ethical dilemmas in research. Informed consent will be obtained from
participants or their guardians, ensuring that they have a clear understanding of the study's
purpose, procedures, and potential risks and benefits. Participants will have the opportunity to
ask questions and make an informed decision about their involvement in the study.
Confidentiality measures, as suggested by Johnson et al. (2018), will be implemented to
protect the privacy and anonymity of the participants. Data collected during the study will be
securely stored and accessed only by authorized researchers. Personal identifiers will be removed
or coded to ensure that individual participants cannot be identified in any published or presented
results. This approach aligns with ethical guidelines and regulations for research involving
human subjects.
The well-being and safety of the participants will be prioritized, as emphasized by Garet
et al. (2001). Researchers will create a supportive and respectful environment for students during
data collection, ensuring that they feel comfortable and valued. The emotional well-being of the
participants will be monitored throughout the study, and any concerns or potential risks will be
promptly addressed. Support systems or resources will be made available to participants,
especially in cases where sensitive topics or activities are involved.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
10
By integrating multiple references from reputable sources, the research proposal
strengthens its credibility and ensures that the study is grounded in existing literature. The
inclusion of existing literature, theoretical frameworks, and methodological guidance ensures
that the study is well-informed and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field of
mathematics education.
In conclusion, this research proposal aims to investigate the impact of curriculum change
on 5th-grade students' performance in mathematics. The study will address the research question
through the formulation of null and alternative hypotheses and the use of a combination of
qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The dependent group t-test will be
employed as the statistical test to analyze the data and determine if there is a significant
difference in student performance before and after the curriculum change. Proper ethical
guidelines and protocols will be followed to protect the rights and well-being of the participants.
The findings of the study will be summarized, discussed, and reported in a manner consistent
with established research reporting standards. By integrating relevant references, including the
analysis from Amey (2017), the research proposal strengthens its credibility and contributes to
the advancement of knowledge in the field of mathematics education.
11
References
Amey, C. S. (2017, January). Closing the STEM Skills Gap - Researchgate. researchgate.net.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316106662_Closing_The_STEM_Skills_Gap
Boaler, J. (2016). Mathematical mindsets: Unleashing students' potential through creative math,
inspiring messages, and innovative teaching. Jossey-Bass.
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2016-07883-000
Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods
approaches. Sage Publications.
https://www.ucg.ac.me/skladiste/blog_609332/objava_105202/fajlovi/Creswell.pdf
English, L. D. (2008). Mathematical and analogical reasoning of young learners.
Mathematics
Education Research Journal, 20
(3), 70-88.
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/edit/10.4324/9781410610706/mathematical-
analogical-reasoning-young-learners-lyn-english
Field, A. (2013). Discovering statistics using IBM SPSS statistics. Sage Publications.
https://uk.sagepub.com/en-gb/eur/discovering-statistics-using-ibm-spss-
statistics/book257672
Galletta, A. (2013). Mastering the semi-structured interview and beyond: From research design
to analysis and publication. NYU Press. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2013-00598-000
12
Garet, M. S., Porter, A. C., Desimone, L., Birman, B. F., & Yoon, K. S. (2001). What makes
professional development effective? Results from a national sample of teachers.
American Educational Research Journal, 38
(4), 915-945.
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2002-18033-006
Hiebert, J., & Grouws, D. A. (2007). The effects of classroom mathematics teaching on students'
learning. In F. K. Lester Jr. (Ed.), Second handbook of research on mathematics teaching
and learning (Vol. 2, pp. 371-404). Information Age Publishing.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317953557_The_Effect_of_Classroom_Mathe
matics_Teaching_on_Students'_Learning
Hinkle, D. E., Wiersma, W., & Jurs, S. G. (2003). Applied statistics for the behavioral sciences.
Houghton Mifflin. https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Statistics-Behavioral-Sciences-
Dennis/dp/0618124055
Johnson, R. B., Onwuegbuzie, A. J., & Turner, L. A. (2018). Toward a definition of mixed
methods research.
Journal of Mixed Methods Research
,
14
(1), 112-133.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1558689806298224
Ridwan, M. R., Hadi, S., & Jailani, J. (2022, June 30). A meta-analysis study on the effectiveness
of a cooperative learning model on vocational high school students’ mathematics learning
outcomes. Participatory Educational Research.
https://eric.ed.gov/?q=cooperative
%2Blearning&ft=on&id=EJ1338907
Witte, R. S., & Witte, J. S. (2017). Statistics (11th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
https://www.amazon.com/Statistics-11th-Robert-S-Witte/dp/1119386055
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
13
Yeh, C.Y.C., Cheng, H.N.H., Chen, ZH. et al. Enhancing achievement and interest in
mathematics learning through Math-Island. RPTEL 14, 5 (2019).
https://telrp.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41039-019-0100-9
Recommended textbooks for you

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:9780134477961
Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Publisher:PEARSON

Cognitive Psychology
Psychology
ISBN:9781337408271
Author:Goldstein, E. Bruce.
Publisher:Cengage Learning,

Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to Mind and ...
Psychology
ISBN:9781337565691
Author:Dennis Coon, John O. Mitterer, Tanya S. Martini
Publisher:Cengage Learning

Psychology in Your Life (Second Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:9780393265156
Author:Sarah Grison, Michael Gazzaniga
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company

Cognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research a...
Psychology
ISBN:9781285763880
Author:E. Bruce Goldstein
Publisher:Cengage Learning

Theories of Personality (MindTap Course List)
Psychology
ISBN:9781305652958
Author:Duane P. Schultz, Sydney Ellen Schultz
Publisher:Cengage Learning
Recommended textbooks for you
- Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)PsychologyISBN:9780134477961Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland WhitePublisher:PEARSONCognitive PsychologyPsychologyISBN:9781337408271Author:Goldstein, E. Bruce.Publisher:Cengage Learning,Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to Mind and ...PsychologyISBN:9781337565691Author:Dennis Coon, John O. Mitterer, Tanya S. MartiniPublisher:Cengage Learning
- Psychology in Your Life (Second Edition)PsychologyISBN:9780393265156Author:Sarah Grison, Michael GazzanigaPublisher:W. W. Norton & CompanyCognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research a...PsychologyISBN:9781285763880Author:E. Bruce GoldsteinPublisher:Cengage LearningTheories of Personality (MindTap Course List)PsychologyISBN:9781305652958Author:Duane P. Schultz, Sydney Ellen SchultzPublisher:Cengage Learning

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:9780134477961
Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Publisher:PEARSON

Cognitive Psychology
Psychology
ISBN:9781337408271
Author:Goldstein, E. Bruce.
Publisher:Cengage Learning,

Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to Mind and ...
Psychology
ISBN:9781337565691
Author:Dennis Coon, John O. Mitterer, Tanya S. Martini
Publisher:Cengage Learning

Psychology in Your Life (Second Edition)
Psychology
ISBN:9780393265156
Author:Sarah Grison, Michael Gazzaniga
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company

Cognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research a...
Psychology
ISBN:9781285763880
Author:E. Bruce Goldstein
Publisher:Cengage Learning

Theories of Personality (MindTap Course List)
Psychology
ISBN:9781305652958
Author:Duane P. Schultz, Sydney Ellen Schultz
Publisher:Cengage Learning