Overview
This lecture covers how to properly write the rationale of a research study, emphasizing its structure, importance, and required supporting evidence.
Importance of the Rationale
- The rationale is a crucial part of your research and is required to justify conducting your study.
- Without a convincing rationale, research proposals may not be approved.
Location and Structure
- The rationale of the study appears as the last paragraph of the background of the study section in Chapter 1.
- Ideally, the rationale should be one concise paragraph, outlining motivations and evidence for the research.
Content Requirements
- The rationale must clearly state the reason for conducting and choosing the study.
- It should present arguments backed by documented evidence, not personal opinions or experiences.
- Evidences are discussed in the background of the study, while the rationale summarizes and outlines these reasons.
Types of Supporting Evidence
- Use documentary evidence such as school documents, meeting minutes, evaluation results, or assessment data.
- The rationale must reference these specific sources to establish an urgent need for the study.
Proper Organization
- The background of the study should use a deductive approach (general to specific), leading logically to the rationale paragraph.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Rationale — the justification or reasoning for conducting a particular research study.
- Background of the Study — introductory section presenting the problem and supporting evidence.
- Deductive Method — organizing information from general statements to specific conclusions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Gather and cite documentary evidence supporting your study’s necessity.
- Draft your background and rationale using a deductive structure.
- Watch the recommended video on writing background of the study for further guidance.