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RESEARCH PROPOSAL: Identifying factors that contributing to Gender-Based violence on campus

Provide full description of research design and methods would like to employ to satisfy the aim of the study
Elements inclues: sample sampling procedures for qualitative component
Data collection for qualitative component
Data analysis for qualitative component

1 answer

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

Research Design

The research will employ a qualitative design using semi-structured interviews and focus groups, allowing an in-depth exploration of the factors contributing to gender-based violence (GBV) on campus. This design is useful for obtaining nuanced perspectives from individuals who experience or observe GBV, providing rich, contextual data that can aid in understanding complex social dynamics.

1. Sample and Sampling Procedures for Qualitative Component

Sample Size:
A total of 30-40 participants will be recruited to ensure a diversity of perspectives while allowing for detailed individual accounts. This sample size is sufficient for saturation, where no new themes emerge from the data.

Sampling Procedure:
A purposive sampling strategy will be employed to identify participants who can provide relevant insights into the issue of GBV on campus. The sample will include the following groups:

  • Survivors of GBV: Individuals who have experienced gender-based violence on campus, including students of all genders.
  • Bystanders: Students who have witnessed incidents of GBV.
  • Campus Staff and Faculty: Individuals in positions that may encounter or respond to GBV, such as counselors, security personnel, and academic staff.
  • Advocate Groups: Members of organizations focused on gender equity, safety, and student well-being.

Participants will be recruited through flyers, social media outreach, campus organizations, and advocacy groups. Efforts will be made to ensure representation across various demographics, including gender, age, ethnicity, and year of study.

2. Data Collection for Qualitative Component

Data Collection Methods:
Two primary methods will be used:

  • Semi-Structured Interviews:
    Individual interviews will provide a platform for participants to share their experiences and perspectives in an open-ended format. A semi-structured interview guide will be developed to address key themes while allowing flexibility for participants to introduce relevant topics. Interviews will be conducted in a private setting to ensure confidentiality and comfort, lasting approximately 45-60 minutes.

  • Focus Groups:
    Focus group discussions will gather insights from groups of 6-8 participants who can share and discuss their perceptions of GBV on campus. These discussions will be guided by a facilitator using a predetermined set of questions to stimulate conversation while allowing participants to interact with one another. Focus groups will last approximately 60-90 minutes and will be recorded with participant consent.

Recruitment Procedures:
Participants will be informed about the study's purpose, procedures, potential risks, and their right to withdraw at any stage without penalty. Informed consent will be obtained prior to participation. Confidentiality will be maintained by assigning pseudonyms and securely storing data.

3. Data Analysis for Qualitative Component

Data Analysis Approach:
The collected data will be analyzed using thematic analysis, which involves the following steps:

  1. Familiarization with Data:
    Transcriptions from audio recordings (from interviews and focus groups) will be reviewed multiple times to gain an initial understanding of the content.

  2. Generating Initial Codes:
    Coding will begin by identifying significant phrases, concepts, or themes as they emerge from the transcripts. NVivo or similar qualitative analysis software may be utilized to assist in organizing and managing the data.

  3. Searching for Themes:
    Codes will be grouped into broader themes that capture the essence of the data. This process may involve iterative cycles of theme refinement as the analysis progresses.

  4. Reviewing Themes:
    Themes will be reviewed and modified in relation to the data to ensure they accurately reflect participants' insights and experiences.

  5. Defining and Naming Themes:
    Each theme will be clearly defined, and sub-themes may be identified to provide a nuanced understanding of participants' experiences related to GBV.

  6. Writing the Report:
    The final report will articulate the themes identified through the analysis, drawing on direct quotes from participants to provide evidence and context to the findings.

By employing this qualitative research design and methods, this study aims to illuminate the multifaceted nature of gender-based violence on campus, offering insights that could ultimately inform intervention strategies and policy development.