Research Proposal: Identifying Factors Contributing to Gender-Based Violence on Campus
1. Research Design
This study will employ a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to gender-based violence (GBV) on campus. The quantitative component will involve a survey distributed to students, while the qualitative component will consist of focus group discussions and individual interviews, allowing for deeper exploration of personal experiences and perspectives.
Research Aims
- To identify the prevalence of gender-based violence on campus.
- To explore individual, societal, and institutional factors that contribute to GBV.
- To assess students’ perceptions of safety and the support systems available on campus.
- To provide data that can inform policy recommendations to reduce GBV.
2. Sample and Sampling Procedures
Sample
The target population will be undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at the university. The sample will aim to include diverse demographics, including variations in gender identity, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and academic discipline.
Sampling Procedures
- Quantitative Component: A stratified random sampling method will be used to ensure representation from different faculties and demographics on campus. A minimum of 400 students will be targeted to achieve statistical significance in our analysis.
- Qualitative Component: Purposeful sampling will be employed to select participants for focus groups and individual interviews. This will include individuals who have reported incidents of GBV, as well as those who have not, to gather a wide range of experiences. A total of 30-40 participants will be recruited, ensuring diversity in gender identity and background.
3. Data Collection
Quantitative Data Collection
- Survey Development: An online survey will be developed, incorporating validated scales for measuring prevalence and attitudes regarding GBV (e.g., the Gender-Based Violence Scale, the Attitudes Toward Women Scale).
- Distribution: The survey will be distributed via university email, social media platforms, and through academic departments. Anonymity will be ensured, and participation will be voluntary to encourage candid responses.
Qualitative Data Collection
- Focus Groups: Two to three focus groups will be organized, each comprising 6-10 students to facilitate discussion. Focus groups will be guided by open-ended questions exploring experiences with GBV, perceptions of campus safety, and the effectiveness of reporting mechanisms.
- Individual Interviews: In-depth interviews will be conducted with selected participants to gather detailed accounts of experiences with GBV. Interviews will be semi-structured to allow flexibility in exploring key themes while ensuring consistency across interviews.
- Duration: Focus groups will last approximately 90 minutes, and interviews will last about 1 hour.
4. Data Analysis
Quantitative Data Analysis
- Statistical Analysis: Data from surveys will be analyzed using statistical software (e.g., SPSS or R). Descriptive statistics will be used to report prevalence rates, while inferential statistics (e.g., chi-square tests, regression analysis) will be employed to identify relationships between variables (e.g., demographics and experiences of GBV).
Qualitative Data Analysis
- Thematic Analysis: Data from focus groups and interviews will be transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. This will involve:
- Familiarization with transcripts through repeated reading.
- Coding data to identify key themes and patterns related to GBV.
- Developing a thematic framework to represent the findings contextually and theoretically.
Conclusion
This proposed research seeks to contribute valuable insights into the factors that lead to gender-based violence on campus. By employing a mixed-methods approach, the study aims not only to quantify the problem but also to understand the complex social dynamics at play, ultimately leading to meaningful recommendations for policy and practice.
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