Group Project Proposal: Choosing a Technical System to Research

Choosing a Technical System and Dividing Research Areas

Teams will select the topic and divide it into two or three research areas that will be taken on by each member of the team.  As such you must choose a technical system about which you could find adequate information so that you can define, describe, and explain. Try thinking outside of the box! What systems would you want to see implemented?  Consider the following:

· What systems would be essential in creating safe, secure, efficient, cost-effective technologies/products in your field? Choose one for your research.

· Is there a topic you are interested in and want to know more about?

· Is there an area of expertise that you have or would like to achieve related to the topic area?

· Do you have relevant work experience that can help you?

· Do you know anyone with experience in the area of research and with whom you can consult?

1. Proposal

A proposal helps a group organize responsibilities and meet deadlines. When you start early and anticipate the time requirements and possible obstacles, you have more time to complete the project. Discuss the details before you create a proposal that outlines how your group will accomplish its goals. In your proposal, break down the tasks into manageable stages and assign roles for each member of the team. Refer to the plan throughout the project and adjust it when necessary. Your proposal will include information about the following:

1. Project Description:  Identify the project and its goals. Outline the report’s purpose [what do you hope to achieve? Why are you writing this report (think beyond the grade)].

2. Tasks and Deadlines:  Explain what you will do and when you will accomplish the tasks involved in this project. Create a table that shows tasks (including research and deliverables), task due dates and team member responsible.

3. Communication and Documentation: Establish a communication plan including team member names and contact information, communication methods, meetings, etc. Include any software required, and how you will share and store information.

4. Assumptions and Concerns: State assumptions already made about the project (that is, what you already know) and any concerns or risks identified.

5. Commitments: List five team agreements that are essential for your success. Consider conflict resolution/decision-making process, honesty, roles, responsibilities, time restrictions, etc.

6. Names and Signatures: All team members should sign the final document to show agreement. Each team member is responsible for completing a substantial portion of the research and writing for the project.

Importance of Starting Early and Anticipating Time Requirements

2. Research  

Credible facts and opinions are integral elements of any report. Evaluate primary and secondary sources that may be useful, and do not ignore data that contradicts other findings. Along with information, remember to collect relevant graphics (you may instead create them yourself using information from your sources). Gather tables and/or figures and organize them with clear names for easy recall.  Remember to record your results and your sources for ethical use in your report. Include in-text citations following APA Style. You must cite graphics that you did not create, and cite the content source for those you did create.

You must consult a variety of sources for your report. Here are the guidelines:

· Three unique database sources: Select magazine, newspaper or journal articles. Search from the Seneca Libraries home page for current and credible print and online sources. This will also search the Seneca Library Databases, but they can be searched on their own. For a review of how to find articles, complete the Searching: Article Databases portion of the Research Success online tutorial. Alternatively, you may click on the Articles or Subject Guides tab on the Seneca Libraries home page to launch your search.

· Three websites: Search online for current and credible information.

· (OPTIONAL because of the COVID situation). One primary source: Select a SME (Subject Matter Expert) with whom you can conduct an interview about your report topic. Conduct the interview after you have completed the rest of your research.

3. Report

As you progress, it may be necessary to update your project plan to match the requirements listed on the assignment rubric. Stay organized! The following are suggested steps for writing the report:

1. Write the report body. Complete the Discussion of Findings, Conclusion, and Recommendations sections. The Discussion section may be subdivided into different sections, depending on how you want to present the results of your research. End with a Conclusion which gives your logical opinion about your research findings and makes Recommendations to the readers.

Note:  Since readers may not understand a report full of jargon, it is important to use plain language, define any acronyms or unfamiliar words in a glossary, and use concise and concrete terms. Add a glossary to your report for many unfamiliar terms. Add graphics that complement the text to make content easier to understand.

2. Write the Introduction and Background sections. Include the purpose, scope, authorization and methodology.

3. Complete the front matter and back matter. These are easier to write once you have written the report body. Write the Executive Summary and Letter of Transmittal. Check in-text citations and create a list of References using the APA style.  If necessary, include Appendix items. Fine-tune the Table of Contents, including a separate list of figures and tables. Design an attractive Cover Page including all necessary elements.

4. Edit and proofread the report for errors in content, grammar, mechanics, style, pagination and format. Avoid errors that diminish a document’s credibility and value. Allow ample time to edit and proofread the report more than once to ensure accuracy in all areas.