Question

RESEARCH PROPOSAL: Identifying factors that contributing to Gender-Based violence on campus
Provide a full description of research design and the methods would like to employ to satisfy the aims of study
Element include: Research design

Answer 1

## Research Proposal: Identifying Factors Contributing to Gender-Based Violence on Campus

### Research Design

The proposed research will employ a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to gender-based violence (GBV) on campus. This design allows for the collection of rich, contextual data while also facilitating statistical analysis to identify patterns and correlations.

#### 1. **Research Objectives:**
- To identify the prevalence and types of gender-based violence on campus.
- To explore the socio-cultural, institutional, and interpersonal factors contributing to GBV.
- To assess the effectiveness of existing support systems and preventive measures.
- To provide recommendations for policy and programmatic interventions.

#### 2. **Research Questions:**
- What is the incidence of gender-based violence on campus?
- What are the perceived and actual risk factors associated with GBV among students?
- How do students perceive the effectiveness of existing GBV prevention and response strategies on campus?
- What cultural and institutional norms contribute to the perpetuation of GBV?

### Methodology

#### A. **Quantitative Component:**

1. **Survey Design:**
- A structured questionnaire will be developed, encompassing demographic information, experiences of GBV, perceptions of campus culture, awareness of support services, and attitudes toward GBV.
- The survey will use validated scales to measure constructs related to GBV (e.g., the Gender-based Violence Scale, Attitudes Toward Women Scale).

2. **Sampling:**
- A stratified random sampling method will be used to ensure that participants represent diverse demographics (gender, ethnicity, year of study, etc.).
- The target sample size will be calculated based on the total student population to achieve a statistically significant representation.

3. **Data Collection:**
- Online surveys will be distributed through university email lists and social media platforms, ensuring anonymity and encouraging participation.
- A pilot study will be conducted to test the questionnaire and make necessary adjustments.

4. **Data Analysis:**
- Descriptive statistics will be used to analyze demographic data and prevalence rates of GBV.
- Inferential statistics (e.g., chi-square tests, regression analysis) will be applied to explore relationships between variables and identify significant predictors of GBV.

#### B. **Qualitative Component:**

1. **Focus Groups:**
- Focus group discussions will be organized with diverse groups of students to explore their perceptions, experiences, and attitudes regarding GBV on campus.
- Each focus group will consist of 6-10 participants and will be facilitated by trained moderators to guide the conversation and ensure inclusivity.

2. **In-Depth Interviews:**
- Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with key informants, including campus administrators, support service staff, and student leaders.
- These interviews will provide insights into institutional policies, support systems, and community norms related to GBV.

3. **Data Analysis:**
- Qualitative data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes, narratives, and insights that emerge from the discussions and interviews.
- Software such as NVivo may be utilized to assist in organizing and coding the qualitative data.

### Ethical Considerations:

- **Informed Consent:** All participants will be required to provide informed consent before participating in the study. They will be assured of confidentiality and the right to withdraw at any time.
- **Support Services:** Resources for counseling and support will be made available to participants, particularly those who may disclose experiences of GBV during the study.
- **Ethical Review:** The research proposal will undergo review by an institutional ethics committee to ensure it adheres to ethical standards.

### Timeline:

- **Preparation Stage:** (Months 1-2)
- Literature review, survey development, and focus group protocols.
- **Data Collection Stage:** (Months 3-5)
- Administer surveys and conduct focus groups/interviews.
- **Data Analysis Stage:** (Months 6-7)
- Analyze qualitative and quantitative data.
- **Reporting Stage:** (Months 8-9)
- Draft and finalize research report with findings and recommendations.

### Conclusion:

This research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the factors contributing to gender-based violence on campus by employing a well-rounded mixed-methods approach. The findings will not only enhance academic knowledge but also inform better policies and practices to create safer campus environments.