Preparation

For this research, you will use the archival data from the GSS Data Explorer website to develop a research research question, develop a hypothesis, and analyze the data to draw conclusions. 

Navigate to the GSS website.

•  Retrieved from https://gssdataexplorer.norc.org/

You will complete the following steps in the GSS website. For a step-by-step guide, refer to the PDF or the video. 

• Create an account and add your two chosen variables to your cart. 
  • Be sure that those variables are what you selected for your Literature Review.
• Create a project, label it 4600_Last name, and save it.
• Download the data by exporting it to Microsoft Excel.
• Review the data available for each variable.

Once you have chosen your variables, use them for the entire course and use the resources provided to craft your study. 

Instructions

In the next assessment, you will start to conduct your research study. We conduct research studies to expand our knowledge on how human behavior in the world is evolving. To conduct an effective study, we need to understand theories of development as they relate to our current environment and society. 

The first step, however, is to create a research proposal that provides the detailed plan for your study. Be sure to use the , as it provides context and wording that you should use to help you clearly explain your main points. By using the template, you will cover all of the points below. 

• Insert your revised literature review in the Literature Review section in the template.
• Operationally define the variables that you are using in your study.
• State your hypothesis for your study.
• Report on the method you will use to sample your participants. 
  • You may want to look at the GSS website to see how participants were found.
  • Use your notes from the media piece to guide your sampling method selection. 
• Explain the method you will use to collect and analyze your data.  
  • You may want to look at the GSS site to see how data was found.
  • Use your notes from the media piece to guide your sampling method selection.
• Choose the measurement that matches your study. 
  • Review the template for suggested language.
• Discuss how the measurement increases the reliability and validity of the study.
• Explain your procedure based on research design you chose.