Week 5 Source of Data and Data Collection Discussion
Week 5 Source of Data and Data Collection Discussion
Discussion 2: Documents and Website Content as Data Sources for a Qualitative Study
Websites and social media sites can provide important sources of data that will help expand your understanding of the stakeholders who are connected to the phenomena you are exploring.
Walden has devoted an entire website to making visible its actions and activities about social change. At the social change website, you will find videos, annual reports, text, and images. As you explore this data source, consider what text, images, and reports you would like to include as part of your data analysis exercise.
To prepare for this Discussion:
- Choose one of the three social change literature review articles found in this week’s Learning Resources and review the article in detail.
- Explore the Walden Social Change website and locate an additional document, video, or webpage that will inform your understanding of the meaning of positive social change. Reflect on any additional sources you find.
- Next, write field notes based on the information you gathered from the Walden social change website and any other documents or websites that might inform your changing impressions about the meaning of positive social change.
- Finally, review the media programs related to coding and consider how you will use this information to support this Discussion. Note: In your Excel Video Coding template there is a tab for your website data. Use this tab to place your content and codes for the website.
By Day 4
Prepare a brief explanation of your understanding of the meaning of positive social change thus far. Refer to the additional sources you have reviewed this week, and comment on how they are shaping your experience. Use the data you gathered from your analytic memo to support your explanation.
Be sure to support your main post and response post with reference to the week’s Learning Resources and other scholarly evidence in APA style.
Week 5 Source of Data and Data Collection Discussion
Description
If doing a quantitative study:
Identify the data sources or instrumentation for each of the variables in your study. Justify the use of each data source or instrument in your study. Support your justification with citations from peer-reviewed sources. Discuss the reliability and validity of each data source or instrument. Also discuss how the instrument is scored and the level (categorical, ordinal, interval, ratio) the data obtained for your variable of interest.
I attached a draft of my prospectus. For data collection
Dissertation Draft Prospectus
Black Professionals Coping with Stress while Practicing Mindfulness
Cassandra D. Summers
Grand Canyon University
May 13, 2020
Chair: Leslie Sherlin
Mindfulness, Meditation, and Coping Strategies for Stress
The dissertation topic for this study dwells on the use of mindfulness in addressing the issue of (reducing) stress in black professionals. The rising incidences of psychological disorders, depressive tendencies, anxiety, as well as mental health problems, is emblematic of the inability of people across the spectrum of age, class, professions, and even personal relationships, to deal with the complexities of life, and living, especially in today’s world. This is especially true for specific special groups and minority (vulnerable) groups such as black professionals, and native tribes. These groups often have to deal with the daily stress that every other citizen has to handle at home and work, as well as the unique challenges that apply to them. Black professionals, who are the main focus of this paper, tend to have stress at their places of work that are unique to them because they are living in a community that is different from them culturally, and in terms of race as noted in several studies discussed below.
As Spruill & Shallcross (2018) noted, they (black people) have to consider factors such as racism and discrimination, and behave in a manner that would be held to higher standards than the white people, whether as a matter of perception or truth (Spruill & Shallcross, 2018). The need to find appropriate, and effective means of mitigating, treating, and preventing these disorders is based on the notion that “mental health disorders diminish the quality of life of people who suffer from them, and they also increase vulnerability for the development of severe disabling diseases.” (Herrero et al. 2019, p.43). Most contemporary medical interventions that deal with psychological, and mental health issues rely on a combination of drugs, and therapeutic interventions through active engagement between a therapist and the clients. They include mindfulness-based home practices, which are discussed in the subsequent paragraph.
The use of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) techniques have increasingly been considered effective interventions in helping individuals deal with stress, anxiety, psychological and mental health issues (Burke et al. 2016, p.102). Because of the relatively recent integration of mindfulness-based approaches, research related to their efficacy of use, and importance of regular practice is limited. These limits apply more to black professionals than other groups, such as white professionals. Due to the limited nature of this research within the black professional community, it is necessary to conduct additional research to mitigate this limitation and verify the relationship between mindfulness and stress reduction.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Introduction This section briefly overviews the research focus or problem, why this study is worth conducting, and how this study will be completed. The recommended length for this section is two to three paragraphs. |
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1. Dissertation topic is introduced along with why the study is needed. |
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2. Provides a summary of results from the prior empirical research on the topic. |
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3. Using results, societal needs, recommendations for further study, or needs identified in three to five research studies (primarily from the last three years), the learner identifies the stated need, called a gap. |
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4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This Introduction section elaborates on the Topic from the 10 Strategic Points. This Introduction section provides the foundation for the Introduction section in Chapter 1 of the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Background of the Problem
Further comparative effectiveness research with the inclusion of controls for non-specific effects is needed to define a range of additional, effective interventions to increase resilience to stress in black professionals. The increment in the number of individuals enduring stress-related side effects and clutters has gone up significantly within the past decade. The issue gets to be exceedingly noteworthy within black professionals’ case, with workplaces across the country witnessing the increasing cases of mental illness in society, especially among black people, and professionals. Hardeman et al. (2016) also note uneasiness, and mental well-being clutters in black professionals. According to Hardeman et al. (2016), the instances of mental illness in the black community are on the rise, affecting black individuals in their daily lives, in school, and later on in their professions (Hardeman et al., 2016).
Research into the use of MBST and MBCT shows that most practitioners complete only about 60% of the allotted time of home practice. It also shows that “there is value in supporting and encouraging participants’ home practice in MBCT and MBSR.” (Parsons et al. 2017, p.37). The adoption of the CORE program, an Internet-based intervention, which includes mindfulness training, also revealed that preventive and coping strategies using ICTs could be “advantageous, compared to face to face interventions,” especially among university students. (Herrero 2019, p.49). Additionally, mindfulness as a means of “wellness and self-care” (Burke et al. 2016, p.95), and its association with “improved stress symptoms and sleep quality” (Greeson et al. 2018, p.8) have been established. This paper seeks to explore the importance of promoting MBCT, and MBSR as part of the therapeutic intervention for black professionals as a means of helping them cope with stress, and also promote the use of mindfulness as a lifelong strategy to deal with mental and psychological issues. This is done primarily by establishing the effect mindfulness has onstress reduction, which is the premise of the gap that this paper seeks to fill.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Background of the Problem This section uses the literature to provide the reader with a definition and statement of the research gap and problem the study will address. This section further presents a brief historical perspective of when the problem started and how it has evolved over time.
The recommended length for this section is two-three paragraphs. |
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1. Includes a brief discussion demonstrating how literature has established the gap and a clear statement informing the reader of the gap. |
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2. Discusses how the “need” or “defined gap” has evolved historically into the current problem or opportunity to be addressed by the proposed study (citing seminal and/or current research). |
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3. ALIGNMENT: The problem statement for the dissertation will be developed from and justified by the “need” or “defined gap” that is described in this section and supported by the empirical research literature published within the past 3-5 years. |
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4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This Background of the Problem section uses information from the Literature Review in the 10 Strategic Points. This Background of the Problem section becomes the Background of the Study in Note, this section develops the foundation for Chapter 1 in the Proposal. It is then expanded to develop the comprehensive Background to the Problem section and Identification of the GAP sections in Chapter 2 (Literature Review) in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Theoretical Foundations/Conceptual Framework and Review of the Literature/Themes
The Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (TMSC) is an invaluable framework because it helps one understand how stress works and how an individual combats such stress. The framework postulates that the experience of stress is based on appraisal, one’s response to it, and eventual adaptation. This is thus important to the study and the phenomenon of how mindfulness can reduce stress because it enables one to understand or contextualize the concept of stress. Stress is abstract, and unless it is somehow constrained through a theory that shows or proposes how it works, it would not be possible to form viable variables that can help in its study, and it would not be easy to measure. With the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, this hurdle is significantly reduced since the concept of mindfulness can be applied within the framework’s constraints, and its impact analyzed based on how stress is appraised, how black professionals respond to it, and how they manage to cope with or without practicing mindfulness.
Literature Themes
Stress Among the Population
Stress in the modern world is a common occurrence to the extent that the WHO has deemed it an epidemic of the 21st century (Smith & Perez, 2018). The authors note that this is because of several individuals’ daily routine which is often taxing and can wreak havoc, both physically and mentally (Smith & Perez, 2018). This daily routine can either be in the employed sector, unemployed sector, or other areas that individuals are forced to make ends meet. Scholars agree that stress increases regardless of an individual’s societal status, but is more harshly felt among the poor and vulnerable groups (Galante et al., 2017).
Stress in Black American professionals
Black professionals are of interest because they are often understudied, and underrepresented in research (Hardeman et al., 2016). This is despite the fact that they are a vulnerable group that has been weighed down by several issues, and injustices, both socially and politically. It is thus interesting to see how these individuals cope with stress, and how mindfulness would be used (Sisco, 2020).
Research on Mindfulness and Its Efficacy
Mindfulness has been used in several studies, but several factors often limit the research. First, since it is a new approach, it has been studied relatively few times than other methods of tackling stress. Where such research has been done, it often excluded minority groups, and vulnerable individuals such as black people, and black professionals (Parsons et al. 2017, p.37). However, based on the few studies that have been done already, mindfulness is agreed to be a useful tool for combating stress (Bamber & Schneider, 2015).
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Theoretical Foundations and/or Conceptual Framework This section identifies the theory(s) or model(s) that provide the foundation for the research. This section should present the theory(s) or models(s) and explain how the problem under investigation relates to the theory or model. The theory(s) or models(s) guide the research questions and justify what is being measured (variables) as well as how those variables are related (quantitative) or the phenomena being investigated (qualitative). Review of the Literature/Themes This section provides a broad, balanced overview of the existing literature related to the proposed The recommended length for this section is 1 paragraph for Theoretical Foundations and a bulleted list for Literature Themes section. |
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1. Theoretical Foundations section identifies the theory(s), model(s) relevant to the variables (quantitative study) or phenomenon (qualitative study). This section should explain how the study topic or problem coming out of the “need” or “defined gap” in the Background to the Problem section relates to the theory(s) or model(s) presented in this section. (One paragraph) |
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2. Review of the Literature Themes section: This section is a bulleted list of the major themes or topics related to the research topic. Each theme or topic should have a one-two sentence summary. |
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3. ALIGNMENT: The Theoretical Foundations models and theories need to be related to and support the problem statement or study topic. The sections in the Review of the Literature are topical areas needed to understand the various aspects of the phenomenon (qualitative) or variables/groups (quantitative) being studied; to select the design needed to address the Problem Statement; to select surveys or instruments to collect information on variables/groups; to define the population and sample for the study; to describe components or factors that comprise the phenomenon; to describe key topics related to the study topic, etc. |
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4. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: The two parts of this section use information about the Literature Review and Theoretical Foundations/Conceptual Framework from the 10 Strategic Points. This Theoretical Foundations section is expanded upon to become the Theoretical Foundations section in Chapter 2 (Literature Review). The Theoretical Foundations and the Literature Review sections are also used to help create the Advancing Scientific Knowledge/Review of the Literature section in Chapter 2 (Literature Review). |
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Reviewer Comments:
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Problem Statement
Little is known about how blacks who are working as professionals can cope with the stresses of work-life balance, and how they can use mindfulness while attending to integration problems in the workforce, and educational environment, despite the various counselling, and orientation services being provided (Sisco, 2020). Therefore, this paper’s problem statement is based on the premise that black professionals, who are the general population for this study, face numerous issues that can affect their mental health when they join the workforce. Little is done to help prevent these issues resulting in stress and anxiety (Hardeman et al., 2016). Through a quantitative analysis, the research seeks to identify and measure the stress faced by black professionals and assess the efficacy of MBCT and MBSR as part of the coping strategies provided for this group. Therefore, the levels of stress and the use or lack of use of mindfulness, as well as its efficacy are the variables. The unit of analysis is the efficacy of mindfulness. The measurement would be in terms of the correlation between stress reduction, and use of mindfulness. This relationship is significant because it would help establish how black professionals can reliably reduce stress using mindfulness, resulting in a better life for them at the workplace.
Criteria
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Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Problem Statement This section includes the problem statement, the population affected, and how the study will contribute to solving the problem. The recommended length for this section is one paragraph. |
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1. States the specific problem proposed for research with a clear declarative statement. |
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2. Describes the population of interest affected by the problem. The general population refers to all individuals that could be affected by the study problem. |
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3. Describes the unit of analysis. For qualitative studies this describes how the phenomenon will be studied. This can be individuals, group, or organization under study. For quantitative studies, the unit of analysis needs to be defined in terms of the variable structure (conceptual, operational, and measurement). |
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4. Discusses the importance, scope, or opportunity for the problem and the importance of addressing the problem. |
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5. The problem statement is developed based on the need or gap defined in the Background to the Study section. |
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6. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the Problem Statement from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Problem Statement section in Chapter 1 and other Chapters where appropriate in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Purpose of the Study
This is a quantitative study that seeks to understand the relationship between the variables of stress reduction, and mindfulness among black professionals in the United States through conducting interviews of professionals and analysing the results. It thus examines mindfulness within black professionals’ context to find out whether it is a viable option. To do this, it examines the use of mindfulness as a variable and its effect on stress, as the other variable, in an effort to establish a correlation.
Criteria
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Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY This section reflects what the study is about, connecting the problem statement, methodology & research design, target population, variables/phenomena, and geographic location. The recommended length for this section is one paragraph. |
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7. Begins with one sentence that identifies the research methodology and design, target population, variables (quantitative) or phenomena (qualitative) to be studied and geographic location. |
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8. Quantitative Studies: Defines the variables and relationship of variables. 9. Qualitative Studies: Describes the nature of the phenomena to be explored. |
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10. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on information in the Purpose Statement from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Purpose of the Study section in Chapter 1 and other Chapters where appropriate in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Research Questions and Hypotheses
The psychological problems and mental issues faced by many professionals and young adults, especially those belonging to ethnic and racial minorities, lead to professional underachievement, depression, and many other things that can affect how they work daily. The existence of, and the level of stress, and the effectiveness of mindfulness are the two aspects that this paper would focus on. The following research questions guide this study:
R1: To what extend does mindfulness help black professionals deal with stress?
H10: There is no statistically significant difference between individuals who use mindfulness to cope with stress and those who do not.
H1a: There is a strong correlation between the use of mindfulness and stress reduction.
R2: What is the impact of mindfulness on black professionals?
H10:Mindfulness has no impact.
H1a:There is a strong positive correlation between mindfulness and black professionals.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Research Question(s) and/or Hypotheses · The recommendation is a minimum of two research questions along with related hypotheses and variables is required for a quantitative study. · Also recommended is a minimum of two research questions along with the phenomenon description is required for a qualitative study. · Put the Research Questions in the appropriate Table in Appendix B based on whether the study is qualitative or quantitative.
The recommended length for this section is a list of research questions and associated hypotheses (quantitative) |
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11. Qualitative Studies: States the research question(s) the study will answer and describes the phenomenon to be studied. 12. Quantitative Studies: States the research questions the study will answer, identifies and describes the variables, and states the hypotheses (predictive statements) using the format appropriate for the specific design and statistical analysis. |
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13. Alignment: The research questions are based on both the Problem Statement and Theoretical Foundation model(s) or theory(s). There should be no research questions that are not clearly aligned to the Problem Statement. |
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14. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the information about Research Questions) & Hypothesis/variables or Phenomena from the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Research Question(s) and/or Hypotheses section in Chapter 1 in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Significance of the Study
Studies into the positive impact of MBCT and MBSR as coping strategies for stress are relatively new research areas. Most extant literature deals with the way it helps participants to deal with stress and psychological issues. This particular study aims to address gaps related to the effectiveness of MBCT and MBSR as preventive strategies for black professionals.
To address this gap in the literature, the study uses a quantitative analysis method, based upon analysis of available data and personal interviews with participants, approximately 12-15 interviews. This will be done to identify the problems in adhering to formal practice and the importance of continuing with the program as part of one’s daily regimen. The formal and informal practice of MBCT and MBSR raise questions of the active components of the treatment but fail to provide direct evidence of the importance of home practice (Parsons et al. 2017, p.37) while Greeson et al. highlight the positive outcomes of MBSR and MBCT therapy for “myriad stress-related disorders” (p.8) and Galante et al. (2017) highlight the use of mindfulness as a preventive strategy for students.
New research into the use of MBCT and MBSR as a coping strategy for professionals and young adults dealing with mental issues and psychological disorders will prove useful, as it promotes a relatively cheap means of therapy.
The use of the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping model to understand and explain the effectiveness of MBCT and MBSR is also essential as it explains the importance of understanding stress and its effect on an individual. While there are research gaps in the use of mindfulness-based strategies overall, which this paper would attempt to address, it is even more useful because it helps narrow down the research. By focusing on the black professional groups, the paper would offer invaluable insight into mindfulness across various diverse groups and hopefully encourage more scientists to examine its use in the black professional groups and beyond.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
ADVANCING SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE and SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY This section reiterates the gap or need in the literature and states how the study will address the gap or need and how the research will contribute to the literature, practical implications to the community of interest, and alignment with the program of study. The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs, providing a brief synopsis of each criteria listed below which will be expanded in the proposal. |
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1. Clearly identifies the “gap” or “need” in the literature that was used to define the problem statement and develop the research questions. (citations required) |
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2. Describes how the study will address the “gap” or “identified need” defined in the literature and contribute to /advance the body of literature. (citations required) |
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3. Describes the potential practical applications from the research. (citations required) |
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4. Identifies and connects the theory(ies) or model(s) that provide the theoretical foundations or conceptual frameworks for the study. (citations required) |
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5. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section builds on information about the Literature review and Theoretical Foundations sections in the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Theoretical Foundations section in Chapter 2 |
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Reviewer Comments: |
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Rationale for Methodology
The research relies on a quantitative analysis of data gleaned from interviews with participants as well as other studies of extant literature related to mindfulness as a coping strategy for stress. This approach relies on numerical data to establish patterns and relationships between variables (Squires & Dorsen, 2018). Quantitative research is an appropriate methodology since it can help generate data that can then be manipulated mathematically to establish relationships between variables. The research is directed towards understanding the relationship between practicing mindfulness, and stress reduction, which makes the experimental quantitative methodology appropriate. The relationship allude to shall be deduced based on numerical data collected on the variables through correlation analysis, making the quantitative approach the proper one.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Rationale for Methodology The Rationale for Methodology section clearly justifies the methodology the researcher plans to use for conducting the study. It argues how the methodological choice (quantitative or qualitative) is the best approach to answer the research questions and address the problem statement. Finally, it contains citations from textbooks and articles on research methodology and/or articles on related studies to provide evidence to support the argument for the selected methodology. The recommended length for this section is one paragraph. |
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1. Identifies the specific research methodology for the study. |
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2. Justifies the methodology to be used for the study by discussing why it is an appropriate approach for answering the research question(s) and addressing the problem statement. 3. Quantitative Studies: Justify in terms of problem statement and the variables for which data will be collected. 4. Qualitative Studies: Justify in terms of problem statement and phenomenon. |
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5. Uses citations from seminal (authoritative) sources (textbooks and/or empirical research literature) to justify the selected methodology. Note: Introductory or survey research textbooks (such as Creswell) are not considered seminal sources. |
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6. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the Methodology and Design in the 10 Strategic Points. This section becomes the foundation for the Research Methodology in Chapter 1 of the Proposal and the basis for developing Chapter 3, Research Methodology. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Nature of the Research Design for the Study
The study design is based on a combination of data collection and analysis and a purposeful sample. The former is chiefly based on a study of existing literature and data accessed from institutions and individuals and interviews with identified black professionals (sample population) who use mindfulness as a way of stress reduction. These interviews will not necessarily be face to face. They can take the form of answers through questionnaires supplied, or even telephonic or Skype interviews with those willing to participate. An essential part of the data collection will be examining existing literature, and studies carried out in the field of mindfulness. Available scores will be analysed and used to understand further the need to regularly follow mindfulness practices to promote resilience and advance coping strategies.
Criterion Score |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Nature of the Research Design for the Study This section describes the specific research design to answer the research questions and why this approach was selected. Here, the learner discusses why the selected design is the best design to address the problem statement and research questions as compared to other designs. This section contains a description of the research sample being studied, as well as, the process that will be used to collect the data on the sample.
The recommended length for this section is two to three paragraphs and must address each criterion. |
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1. Identifies and describes the selected design for the study. |
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2. Justifies why the selected design addresses the problem statement and research questions. 3. Quantitative Studies: Justifies the selected design based on the appropriateness of the design to address the research questions and data for each variable. 4. Qualitative Studies: Justifies the selected design based on appropriateness of design to address research questions and study the phenomenon. |
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5. Briefly describes the target population and sample for the study. |
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6. Identifies the sources and instruments that will be used to collect data needed to answer the research questions. |
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7. Briefly describes data collection procedures to collect data on the sample. |
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8. Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section also elaborates on the Design portion of the Methodology and Design section in the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for Nature of the Research Design for the Study in Chapter 1. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Research Materials
The research design is chiefly based upon analysis of existing data taken from extant literature, accessed from databases, and institutions. To make an appropriate evaluation, and analysis of the prior literature, it is crucial to analyze the various sections of the study. Even as the study’s significance and the problem aspect are the reason for the research papers being used, it is essential to look at the methods section with a critical eye, as it provides information about data collection methods, management, and analysis. (Merriam, Grenier 2019, p.21). The limitation section of the study and the validation instruments, if any, have been used, need to be understood clearly to ensure that ethical considerations related to data collection have been managed. As this particular research study depends upon interviews with participants, a field test could be carried out using a questionnaire and appropriate analysis done to ensure that the final questionnaire is error-free.
Criterion Score |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
RESEARCH MATERIALS, INSTRUMENTATION, OR SOURCES OF DATA This section identifies and describes the types of data that will be collected, as well as the specific research materials, instruments, and sources used to collect those data (tests, surveys, validated instruments, questionnaires, interview protocols, databases, media, etc.).
The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs. Note: this section can be set up as a bulleted list. |
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Quantitative- Instruments/Research Materials: Provides a bulleted list of the instrumentation and/or materials for data collection. Describes the survey instruments or equipment/materials used (experimental research), and specifies the type and level of data collected with each instrument. Includes citations from original publications by instrument developers (and subsequent users as appropriate) or related studies. |
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Qualitative – Sources of Data: Describes the structure of each data collection instrument and data sources (tests, questionnaires, interview protocols, observations databases, media, etc.). |
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Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the Data Collection from the 10 Strategic Points This information is summarized high level in Chapter 1 in the Proposal in the Nature of the Research Design for the Study section. This section provides the foundation for Research Materials, Instrumentation (quantitative) or Sources of Data (qualitative) section in Chapter 3. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Data Collection
- Most of the data used for the research is accessed from existing literature where “applicability, or transferability of the research findings, is the criterion for evaluating external validity.” (Hammarberg et al. 2016, p.500).
- This helps in redirecting efforts, based on essential and incriminating evidence found. For the participant interviews, after the field test, a group of individuals will be identified, permission sought for accessing their records, and conducting interviews, after which the data will be collated and analyzed.
- This data will be examined individually. The use of most recent data and studies, between one to three years old, will be carried out to provide the most recent studies, and data needed to create the framework for further analysis.
- For questionnaires, they would first be constructed based on the information about the research, target respondents, and disseminating avenues.
- It would then be worded, pretested and distributed.
- To obtain informed consent, the sample population would be contacted in a advance and requested, in writing, for their permission to participate in the study.
- To protect the rights of the participants, the gathered data would be stored on an encrypted hard drive and only published with their written consent. In addition, no names would be used in order to enhance anonymity.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
DATA COLLECTION AND MANAGEMENT This section details the data collection process and procedures so that another researcher could conduct or replicate the study. It includes authorizations and detailed steps. The recommended length for this section is a bullet or numbered list of data collection steps that should not exceed one page. |
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Quantitative Studies: Lists steps for the actual data collection that would allow replication of the study by another researcher, including how each instrument or data source was used, how and where data were collected, and recorded. Includes a linear sequence of actions or step-by-step of procedures used to carry out all the major steps for data collection. Includes a workflow and corresponding timeline, presenting a logical, sequential, and transparent protocol for data collection that would allow another researcher to replicate the study. Data from different sources may have to be collected in parallel (e.g., paper-and-pen surveys for teachers, corresponding students, and their parents AND retrieval of archival data from the school district). A flow chart is ok—”linear” may not apply to all situations Qualitative Studies: Provides detailed description of data collection process, including all sources of data and methods used, such as interviews, member checking, observations, surveys, field tests, and expert panel review. Note: The collected data must be sufficient in breadth and depth to answer the research question(s) and interpreted and presented correctly, by theme, research question, and/or source of data. |
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Describes the procedures for obtaining participant informed consent and for protecting the rights and well-being of the study sample participants. |
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Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the Sample and Location and Data Collection in the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for the Data Collection Procedures section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal. And it is summarized high level in Chapter 1 in Nature of the Research Design for the Study in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Data Analysis Procedures
The use of hypothetico-deductive model helps in quantitative research. It comprises methodical, yet adaptable rules for gathering, and analyzing data and pieces of information to develop hypotheses grounded in the data themselves (McKenzie, 2018). Based on this, the data collection was done through thematic analysis of emerging themes to access the patterns in unifying themes in the databases. The initial coding, which led to the main themes related to regular practice and the importance of integrating mindfulness in one’s daily routine, led to focussed coding that helped to synthesize and explain big chunks of data.
Data on stress reduction shall be gathered within the context of the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping discussed earlier. The appraisals that the participants give would thus be the scales upon which the data would be based and interpreted. Similarly, the efficacy of mindfulness would be evaluated based on how the stress is seen to reduce when mindfulness is used. The variations in appraisals would be evaluated. Similarly, data from other studies would be evaluated using correlation analysis to identify the relationships between the data. Some of the assumptions of this model are that it assumes linearity, and an absence of outliers, among other things.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
DATA ANALYSIS PROCEDURES This section provides detailed steps for the analytic procedures to be used to conduct data analysis. The recommended length for this section is one to two paragraphs, can also be presented in bulleted format. |
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Describes in detail the relevant data collected for each stated research question and/or each variable within each hypothesis (if applicable).
Quantitative Studies: “In detail” means scales (and subscales) of specified instruments AND type of data for each variable of interest. IMPORTANT: For (quasi) experimental studies, provide detailed description of all treatment materials per treatment condition, as part of the description of the independent variable corresponding to the experimental manipulation. |
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What: Describes, in detail, statistical and non-statistical analysis to be used and procedures used to conduct the data analysis. Quantitative Studies: (1) describe data file preparation (descriptive statistics used to check completeness and accuracy; for files from different sources, possibly aggregating data to obtain a common unit of analysis in all files, necessarily merging files (using the key variable defining the unit of analysis); (2) computation of statistics for the sample profile; (3) computation of (subscales and) scales; (4) reliability analysis for all scales and subscales; (5) computation of descriptive statistics for all variables of interest in the study (except those already presented in the sample profile); (6) state and justify all statistical procedures (“tests”) needed to generate the information to answer all research questions; and (7) state assumptions checks for all those statistical procedures (including the tests and / or charts to be computed).
Qualitative Studies: This section begins by identifying and discussing the specific analysis approach or strategy, followed by a discussion of coding procedures to be used. Note: coding procedures may be different for Thematic Analysis, Narrative Analysis, Phenomenological Analysis, or Grounded Theory Analysis. |
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Why: Provides the justification for each of the (statistical and non-statistical) data analysis procedures used in the study. |
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Show Steps that Support Evidence Quantitative Analysis – states the level of statistical significance for each test as appropriate, and describes tests of assumptions for each statistical test. Qualitative Analysis – evidence of qualitative analysis approach, such as coding and theming process, must be completely described and included the analysis /interpretation process. Clear evidence from how codes moved to themes must be presented. |
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Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section elaborates on the Data Analysis from the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for Data Analysis Procedures section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
Ethical Considerations
The guiding principle of a significant research project should be to find solutions for prevalent issues while ensuring that the highest ethical considerations are integrated throughout the research process. Several research projects face ethical issues such as privacy rights violation, and use of underhand tactics to obtain results. In this situation, it is vital to maintain the highest confidentiality levels, protect the data collected, and ensure that the examinee has given informed consent. For this particular research study, through informed consent and confidentiality of subjects, and objective interpretation, the ethical issues related to the project will be managed positively. To obtain informed consent, the sample population would be contacted in a advance and requested, in writing, for their permission to participate in the study. To protect the rights and identity of the participants, the gathered data would be stored on an encrypted hard drive and only published with their written consent. In addition, no names would be used in order to enhance anonymity
Finally, to ensure that the dissertation is deemed ethical, the necessary approvals from relevant regulatory bodies and ethical bodies would be obtained where applicable. This would be done through written requests to the relevant boards and face to face meetings with others which are near. This helps demonstrate that the research has been done in compliance with specifications laid down regulations. The approvals would be obtained for the instruments to be used in the research, the site, and the IRB.
Criteria |
Learner Self-Evaluation Score (0-3) |
Chair or Score (0-3) |
Reviewer Score (0-3) |
Ethical Considerations This section discusses the potential ethical issues surrounding the research, as well as how human subjects and data will be protected. It identifies how any potential ethical issues will be addressed.
The recommended length for this section is one paragraph. |
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1. Describes site authorization process, subject recruiting, and informed consent processes. |
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2. Describes how the identities of the participants in the study and data will be protected. |
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3. Discusses potential ethical concerns that might occur during the data collection process. |
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4. ALIGNMENT: Ethical considerations are clearly aligned with, and relate directly to the specific Data Collection Procedures. This section also identifies ethical considerations related to the target population being researched and organization or location as described in the Purpose Statement section. |
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Section is written in a way that is well structured, has a logical flow, uses correct paragraph structure, uses correct sentence structure, uses correct punctuation, and uses correct APA format. |
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NOTE: This section does not include information from any of the 10 Strategic Points. This section provides the foundation for Ethical Considerations section in Chapter 3 in the Proposal. |
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Reviewer Comments: |
References
Bamber, M., & Schneider, J. (2015, December). Mindfulness-Based Meditation to Decrease Stress and Anxiety in College Students: A Narrative Synthesis of the Research. Educational Research Review, 1(32), 1-29. doi:10.1016/j.edurev.2015.12.004
Burke, M. G., Dye, L., & Hughey, A. W. (2016). Teaching mindfulness for the self-care and
well-being of student affairs professionals. College Student Affairs Journal, 34(3), 93-107.
Galante, J., Dufour, G., Vainre, M., Wagner, A. P., Stochl, J., Benton, A., … & Jones, P. B.
(2018). A mindfulness-based intervention to increase resilience to university students (the Mindful Student Study): a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. The Lancet Public Health, 3(2), e72-e81.
Greeson, J. M., Zarrin, H., Smoski, M. J., Brantley, J. G., Lynch, T. R., Webber, D. M., … &
Wolever, R. Q. (2018). Mindfulness meditation targets transdiagnostic symptoms implicated in stress-related disorders: Understanding relationships between changes in mindfulness, sleep quality, and physical symptoms: evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018.
Hammarberg, K., Kirkman, M., & de Lacey, S. (2016). Qualitative research methods: when to
use them and how to judge them. Human Reproduction, 31(3), 498-501.
Hardeman, R., Perry, S., Phelan, S. M., Przedworski, J. M., Burgess, D. J., & Ryn, M. (2016). Racial identity and mental well-being: The experience of African American Medical Students. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities, 3(2), 250–258. doi:/orders/dx.doi.org/10.1007%2Fs40615-015-0136-5
Herrero, R., Mira, A., Cormo, G., Etchemendy, E., Baños, R., García-Palacios, A., … & Görlich,
- (2019). An Internet-based intervention for improving university students’ resilience and coping strategies: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Internet interventions, 16, 43-51.
Merriam, S. B., & Grenier, R. S. (Eds.). (2019). Qualitative research in practice: Examples for
discussion and analysis. John Wiley & Sons.
McKenzie, S. E. (2018). Research Methods: Qualitative Approach. Retrieved from Downstate.edu: /orders/www.downstate.edu/geriatricfellowship/documents/QualitativeResearchMethods_DownstatePresentationSTUDENT.pdf
Parsons, C. E., Crane, C., Parsons, L. J., Fjorback, L. O., & Kuyken, W. (2017). Home practice
in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of participants’ mindfulness practice and its association with outcomes. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 95, 29-41.
Sibinga, C. T. (Ed.). (2018). Ensuring research integrity and the ethical management of data.
IGI Global.
Sisco, S. (2020, August 20). Race-Conscious Career Development: Exploring Self-Preservation and Coping Strategies of Black Professionals in Corporate America. Advances in Developing Human Resources. doi:/orders/doi.org/10.1177%2F1523422320948885
Smith, J., & Perez, M. (2018). The importance of stress management in todays. Rev. Client. Sena Aires, 7(1), 1-4.
Spruill, T. M., & Shallcross, A. J. (2018). The Protective Role of Mindfulness in the Relationship Between Perceived Discrimination and Depression. Mindfulness (N Y), 9(4), 1100–1109. doi:/orders/dx.doi.org/10.1007%2Fs12671-017-0845-4
Squires, A., & Dorsen, C. (2018, October 01). Qualitative Research in Nursing and Health Professions Regulation. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 9(3), 15-26. doi:/orders/doi.org/10.1016/S2155-8256(18)30150-9
Turner, F. D., & Smith, J. K. (2015). A comparative study on the stress levels of black, white,
Asian and Latino undergraduate students. Journal of Research Initiatives, 1(3), 6.
Appendix A
The 10 Strategic Points
The 10 strategy points emerge from researching literature on a topic that is based on, or aligned with, the defined need in the literature as well as the learner’s personal passion, future career purpose, and degree area. The 10 Strategic Points document includes the following 10 key or strategic points that define the research focus and approach:
- Topic—Provides a broad research topic area/title.
The efficacy of mindfulness as a strategy in stress reduction.
- Literature review—Lists primary points for four sections in the Literature Review:
(a) Background of the problem/gap and the need for the study based on citations from the literature;
There is evidence to indicate rising levels of stress in the world and in black professionals (Smith & Perez, 2018).
According to Hardeman et al. (2016), the instances of mental illness in the black community are on the rise, affecting black individuals in their daily lives, in school, and later on in their professions (Hardeman et al., 2016).
(b) Theoretical foundations (models and theories to be foundation for study);
The Transactional Model of Stress and Coping is an invaluable framework because it helps one understand how stress works and how an individual combats such stress.
(c) Review of literature topics with key theme for each one;
Stress Among the Population
Stress in the modern world is a common occurrence to the extent that the WHO has been deemed an epidemic of the 21st century (Smith & Perez, 2018).
Stress in Black American professionals
Black professionals are of interest because they are often understudied, and underrepresented in research (Hardeman et al., 2016).
Research on Mindfulness and Its Efficacy
Mindfulness has been used in several studies, but several factors often limit the research.
(d) Summary.
Literature shows that stress is indeed a significant impediment in people’s lives, especially black professionals. There are, however, limited studies on how this stress can be combated and especially so in black professionals. This has to be remedied by conducting mores studies in how mindfulness can help reduce stress.
- Problem statement—Describes the problem to address through the study based on defined needs or gaps from the literature.
This paper’s problem statement is based on the premise that black professionals, who are general population for this study, face numerous issues that can affect their mental health when they join the workforce
- Sample and location—Identifies sample, needed sample size, and location (study phenomena with small numbers and variables/groups with large numbers).
This is a quantitative study that seeks to understand the relationship between the variables of stress reduction, and mindfulness among black professionals in the United States through conducting interviews of professionals (approximately) and content analysis (number of articles yet to be determined) then analyzing the results.
- Research questions—Provides research questions to collect data to address the problem statement.
R1: To what extend does mindfulness help black professionals deal with stress?
- Hypothesis/variables or Phenomena—Provides hypotheses with variables for each research question (quantitative) or describes the phenomena to be better understood (qualitative).
H10: There is no statistically significant difference between individuals who use mindfulness to cope with stress and those who do not.
H1a: There is a strong correlation between the use of mindfulness and stress reduction.
- Methodology and design—Describes the selected methodology and specific research design to address problem statement and research questions.
The experimental quantitative methodology is used and interviews and content analysis constitute the design of the projects.
- Purpose statement—Provides a one-sentence statement of purpose including the problem statement, methodology, design, population sample, and location.
This is a quantitative study that seeks to understand the relationship between the variables of stress reduction, and mindfulness among black professionals in the United States through conducting interviews of professionals and analysing the results. It thus examines mindfulness within black professionals’ context to find out whether it is a viable option. To do this, it examines the use of mindfulness as a variable and its effect on stress, as the other variable, in an effort to establish a correlation.
- Data collection—Describes primary instruments and sources of data to answer research questions.
Data collection would be done through content analysis and interviews of the sample population.
Data analysis—Describes the specific data analysis approaches to be used to address research questions.
Data would be analysed through the use of statistical software such as SPSS and excel where applicable. It would be cleaned and sorted before this analysis.
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- Discussion Questions (DQ)
Initial responses to the DQ should address all components of the questions asked, including a minimum of one scholarly source, and be at least 250 words. Successful responses are substantive (i.e., add something new to the discussion, engage others in the discussion, well-developed idea) and include at least one scholarly source. One or two-sentence responses, simple statements of agreement or “good post,” and responses that are off-topic will not count as substantive. Substantive responses should be at least 150 words. I encourage you to incorporate the readings from the week (as applicable) into your responses. Week 5 Source of Data and Data Collection Discussion
- Weekly Participation
Your initial responses to the mandatory DQ do not count toward participation and are graded separately. In addition to the DQ responses, you must post at least one reply to peers (or me) on three separate days, for a total of three replies. Participation posts do not require a scholarly source/citation (unless you cite someone else’s work). Part of your weekly participation includes viewing the weekly announcement and attesting to watching it in the comments. These announcements are made to ensure you understand everything that is due during the week.
- APA Format and Writing Quality
Familiarize yourself with the APA format and practice using it correctly. It is used for most writing assignments for your degree. Visit the Writing Center in the Student Success Center, under the Resources tab in Loud-cloud for APA paper templates, citation examples, tips, etc. Points will be deducted for poor use of APA format or absence of APA format (if required). Cite all sources of information! When in doubt, cite the source. Paraphrasing also requires a citation. I highly recommend using the APA Publication Manual, 6th edition.
- Use of Direct Quotes
I discourage over-utilization of direct quotes in DQs and assignments at the Master’s level and deduct points accordingly. As Masters’ level students, it is important that you be able to critically analyze and interpret information from journal articles and other resources. Simply restating someone else’s words does not demonstrate an understanding of the content or critical analysis of the content. It is best to paraphrase content and cite your source. Week 5 Source of Data and Data Collection Discussion
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Appendix B
Table 1
Quantitative Studies
Research Questions: State the research Questions |
Hypotheses: State the hypotheses to match each Research question |
List of Variables/Groups to Collect Data For: Independent and Dependent Variable(s) |
Instrument(s) To collect data for each variable |
Analysis Plan Data analysis approach to (1) describe data and (2) test the hypothesis |
1. R1: To what extend does mindfulness help black professionals deal with stress? |
H10: There is no statistically significant difference between individuals who use mindfulness to cope with stress and those who do not. H1a: There is a strong correlation between the use of mindfulness and stress reduction.
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Level of stress Use of mindfulness |
Interviews Content analysis |
Use of statistical approaches and software. |
2. R2: What is the impact of mindfulness on black professionals? Mindfulness has no impact. |
H10:Mindfulness has no impact. H1a:There is a strong positive correlation between mindfulness and black professionals |
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