Uncovering Arguments : General Patterns of Quantitative and Qualitative Research Proposals

By : Rizqoh Maulida/5th Semester Student/D Department of Islamic Education Management, Sunan Gunung Djati State Islamic University, Bandung

Research on educational management shows that many students only write proposals formally without understanding the scientific basis. As a result, research preparation is seen as a critical thinking process rather than simply fulfilling an academic assignment. This condition leads to a difference in understanding between the formal proposal structure and the conceptual meaning that should be developed. Therefore, this argumentative essay aims to emphasize the importance of understanding the phenomena, theories, policies, and research objectives as a basis for creating academically oriented and meaningful proposals.

First, Both regional and global phenomena demonstrate that the world of education continues to experience changes in policy, social behavior, and the need for innovation. For example, the push for digitalization of education is emerging globally, while equitable quality is emerging at the national level, and adaptation to local social norms is needed at the regional level. To develop relevant and contextual research recommendations, these phenomena provide a crucial starting point.

Second, Theory is useful in developing research proposals because it provides a scientific basis for conceptually grounded research. Educational policy serves as a standard for determining research boundaries and relevance to industry needs. Assumptions, on the other hand, serve as the basis for the researcher's analysis and position on the problem being studied. The combination of these three elements strengthens the research proposal.

Third, After observing empirical reality, problems are identified by comparing them to theory or policy ideals. This process yields research gaps, indicating that certain topics have not been thoroughly studied. These gaps drive the need for research. Therefore, a research proposal not only explains the problem but also demonstrates the scientific need to fill the existing knowledge gap.

Fourth, The previously identified problems and deficiencies form the basis for formulating research objectives. Objectives in educational management must describe a realistic, methodologically sound path to achievement, and possess both theoretical and practical benefits. Furthermore, the formulated objectives must be clearly and operationally formulated so they can be translated into systematic research methods. Research becomes more focused and makes a credible scientific contribution when conducted correctly.

Based on the explanation, it can be concluded that research proposals on educational management must be oriented toward clear objectives, understanding the phenomenon, strengthening theory and policy, and not simply following a formal structure. Research contributes scientifically and becomes more meaningful when people recognize research gaps. To ensure that research doesn't stop at the administrative level and develops into valuable academic work, it is important to understand the conceptual foundation before developing a proposal.

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*) This article is summarized from the Teaching Module for the Management Research Methods Part 7 course taught by Prof. Dr. HA Rusdiana, MM (https://digilib.uinsgd.ac.id/id/eprint/121673).