GUIDELINES ON RESEARCH PROPOSAL IN

ARCHITECTUREBY

‘NIYI OKEDELE and CEPHAS ADELOREDEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS, AKOKA, LAGOS, NIGERIA

INTRODUCTIONOne of the Principal pre- occupations of an academic in higher institution of learning is research

along with teaching and community services. The accepted method of investigation causes and

effects on the subject of investigation are therefore procedures considered common to all

disciplines. Researches therefore are means to an end, forming the proof of knowledge about what

is being studied.

Science and Research

As Amund (2001) puts it, “Science is characterized by the possibility of making precise statement,

which are susceptible to some sort of checks or proof.” “Science”, according to Youngson (1994) “is

from a Latin word ‘Scientia’ which means knowledge. Science is thus defined as a systematic study

of nature by observation and experiment leading to the formulation of descriptive generalization

about it”.

Science is applied to a variety of disciplines or intellectual activities, for example, Basic Sciences,

Applied Sciences and Social Sciences all of which have certain features in common. Science is thus

classified basically into “exact Science” or “descriptive Sciences”. Applied Sciences include

Engineering, Medicine and Environmental studies, the study of which involves gathering and use of

information. Such information gathering is achieved by Scientific method. This includes:

1. Identification of problems,

2. Problem definition and delimitation,

3. Conducting the study,

4. Analysis of the problem and interpretation of results,

5. Deductions based on the analysis including recommendation of solution to the problem,

6. Implementation of recommended solution.

The above steps of a scientific inquiry are known as research. Research is therefore defined as an

organized enquiry that aims at providing information for solving identified problem. The most

important contribution of research to the national economy is the education of men and women

with an understanding of emerging new knowledge and the creativity of the mindset and skills to

apply them wisely. “ The outcome of researchers need to be known to those who wish to know

about what goes on in a particular discipline and to others for the sake of knowledge”. (Oyesiku,

2003). It is for these reasons that scholarly publications form the cornerstone of academic life. It is

also in recognition of this importance that the assessment of lectures in academia depends. What

he or she has contributed to knowledge through publications thus form basis of his or her staying

afloat or sinking (you either publish or perish). Research provides an opportunity for researcher to

keep fresh abreast of advances in his or her area of specialization. It is directed at discovering,

creating and adding to a pool of scientific knowledge.

In this paper, strategies and guidelines for executing research and publishing academic research

works are discussed.

RESEARCH WORKS IN ARCHITECTURE.

Definition: Research and Publication may be defined as a concentrated, comprehensive study

based on intensive research intended to advance knowledge related to a Problem of Architectural

Significance (Okedele, 2003). The definition covers four fundamental components in a research: the

scope, the method, the intent and the focus.

The first component, "... concentrated, comprehensive study..." defines the scope of the research;

the scope component, "... based on intensive research..." defines the method used in the research;

While the third component in the above definition, "...intended to advance in knowledge..." states

the intent of the research, that is, to further human knowledge with respect to the stated problem.

And the final component,"...related to a problem of architectural significance..." defines the central

focus of a research within the sphere of Architecture.

These four major characteristics: a comprehensive scope, a research method, and intent to advance

human knowledge, and focus of Architectural significance- define the research and set it apart from

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any other single aspect of the educational or design work or project experience is thus a challenge

for those who are willing and capable to accepting the burden of the Pursuit of Excellence.

Three basic steps are involved in the bid to successfully complete a research work. These are briefly

defined and outlined in sequential order:

1. Decision to Seek Research Experience

The initial step is deciding to embark upon a research. Once a researcher has decided to

engage in a research work, and meet the necessary requirements, it becomes imperative that a title

is selected and a realistic evaluation be made of competence for successful completion of research.

In other words, for the researcher to be able to successfully complete his research work with

excellence, he should not only have interest in the topic but also have that ability to bear the

burdens of the exercise.

2. The Research Proposal

The research proposal can be defined as a binding document, which specifies what the

researchers will do and how his work shall be judged when he has finished; In other words, it is a

document of specified yardstick. The preparation of a research proposal should therefore take some

appreciable time if it is to be done thoroughly. During this period, the researcher will clarify his

thinking, outline his work schedule, refine his strategies and methods and transform his problem

statement into research goal(s) and objectives. At the end of this period, he will be expected to

submit his final research proposal to the Research Grant Committee or the Review Committee.

Acceptance of the proposal constitutes part of the written document by which his limits of

accountability are defined. It also establishes the criteria by which his work shall be evaluated at the

end of the exercise.

3. The Research Product – Publication

Upon the acceptance of the research proposal, the researcher shall enter the research stage to do

the preliminary work and research brief for the execution of the publication to be prepared in

accordance to the format requirements.

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CATEGORIES OF RESEARCH WORK IN ARCHITECTURE

A research work in Architecture may fall under any of the following categories:

Planning & Design, Architectural System Research, Man-Environment Systems, Comparative

Studies and Special Topics. These categories are briefly defined below.

1. Planning and/or Design.

Three types of design, in terms of scale, may be identified; each type with two levels of

complexity.

The first is small scale planning or design:- The first level of complexity is definitive manner which is

a tightly defined problem treated in a comprehensive way. A thorough consideration of all related

factors and implications is necessary. The second level of complexity is the level of classical,

professional design considerations, which involves programming, site planning, structural &

mechanical systems, and e.t.c.

The second medium scale planning or design- while a larger scaled planning or design is involved in

this type of project, comprehensiveness is only required, albeit with less detail and more generality.

The third is the macro-project- at this level, the scale is considerably larger and the basis concern is

with the inter-action of larger scale systems.

2. Architectural Systems Research

This research problem under this category will deal with more technical aspects of architectural

studies such as building systems technology, engineering aspects, structure and structural design, as

well environmental controls. Problems of this type might deal with innovations in systems, the

testing and evaluation of structural system, and efficiency comparisons between types and

structural systems.

3. Man- Environment System

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Research- work in this category will deal with the transactions between man and his built or

designed environment. Concern can be focused on any of a number of different levels of complexity

ranging from the micro-environmental and its effect on behavior on ecological systems to macro-

environmental and its effect such as pollution of all sorts: traffic chaos, etc.

4. Comparative Studies

Research topics appropriate for this category would include architectural studies, theory and

history, architectural journalism and literary criticism, environmental forensics (debates), the

abandonment or research works concerned with historic preservation, environmental-energy,

environmental- ecological studies, e.t.c. Comparative studies typically evaluate and compare a

variety of phenomena according to the same set of criteria.

5. Special topics

The special topics category permits a range of research topics that are atypical: in nature. Under this

category, titles such as films, media presentations and the packaging of information and concepts

for a more general, public audience are appropriate. Research work that falls under this rubic

however, still requires an exhaustive and carefully outlined proposal even through the final work

forms, will differ from the other categories.

WRITING RESEARCH PROPOSALS

There are various types of researchers, few of which are academically acceptable. Newspaper,

reading periodic magazines, periodic journals, students’ or other association journals, textbooks and

books are some works within the context of ‘publish or perish syndrome’. Journals, textbooks and

other forms of works whose targeted reading audience are professional groups, students, and

researchers in tertiary institutions are highly rated works. Moreover, joint –authored articles, edited

or co-edited books, chapters in a book (or textbooks) are highly rated works. Single-book or

textbook writing gives more of a sense of fulfillment in ones career but may not provide much

weight for academic promotion exercise. “Textbooks may be differentiated from scholarly books or

publications because their objectives are: commercial, educational, personal fulfillment and not

advancement of knowledge (Blij, 1989).

Guidelines For Writing Research Proposal For Grant.

The following is a typical research proposal guideline in Architectural studies:5

Research Project Title

This must be brief scientifically or technically valid. At a glance, the title should depict what the

researcher’s intention on the topic is (not the usual Evening Newspaper Headline).

Project/Executive Summary

The summary of the key information of the entire proposal, which captures the essence of the

research.

Introduction / Background Information to Study.

Background to the Study

Statement of the Problem

Theoretical Framework of the Study

Purpose of Study

Research Question(s) / Hypotheses

Significance of the Study

The purpose of the introduction is to supply the reader with the history pertinent to the problem

being studied; to inform the reader of the nature of the problem being studied; to inform the reader

the extent literature dealing with the problem; and to inform the reader of the architectural

significance of the problem. The introduction should communicate the author’s comprehensive

grasp of the field(s) pertinent to the problem being investigated.

Literature Review and / or Case Studies.

(Case Studies - Research familiarization and graphic documentation of selected design or work

already executed related to the proposed project. Analysis, evaluation and summation of

findings.)

Scope of the study

The focus of the study should be stated here in the form of Goal(s) or Aim(s) and the objectives

of how to achieve the goal(s) must be stated.

Methodology

Samples & Techniques

Pilot Study

Instrumentation

Study Variables

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Scoring

Data analysis

The methods and procedure can be entitled descriptively according to the specific research and

publication project. This section must outline in detail the methods and procedure by which the

design decisions were accomplished. An adequate methods and procedures section should indicate

what criteria were employed in data collection, how the data were analyzed and reduced, e.t.c.

The purpose of the methods and procedures section is to place the entire research and publication

process in public domain so that others can attempt to replicate the process if they so choose, or so

that others can systematically vary from his procedure to test the effects of alternative approaches

to the same problem.

Research Project Duration / Timetable.

The research project should contain a carefully thought out plan to complete the research in a

specified amount of time. Include a bar chart (where applicable).

Research Budget.

Provision of a budget, which should include a detailed estimate of the expected cost of the

proposed research work. This, however, should exclude details of the manpower involved, the

cost of equipment to be used, allowances, research assistants and secretarial supporting staff, as

funds available are limited. It is assumed that researchers will take advantage of the human

resources and equipment on the ground for the purpose. Details of the cost of consumables

could however be included.

Biography of the Researcher(s).

The proposal should include a short biography of each project person. (Includes researcher’s

publications most relevant to the research proposed).

References / Bibliography.

The reference section must include all primary reference and source material employed during the

research work. References must be typed according to specific format employing standard

conventions and be alphabetized according to the principal author.

Appendix (where applicable).

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Source: Adapted from Appendices A, B & C attached.

Guidelines For Writing For Various Audiences

The guidelines for the writing of Research Proposals, Seminar/Workshop (called

opinion papers), and Publications in learned journals are as follows:

Guideline for Technical Writing for

Research Proposal for

Dissertation/thesis Reports

Guideline for Research Paper for

Seminar/Workshop (Opinion

Papers)

Guideline for Research Work for

Publications in Journals, Books,

Periodicals.

Title page

Executive Summary

Introduction/Problem I

Identification

Literature Review/Case

Studies

Methods & Procedures

Results obtained so far

Title page

Abstract

Introduction/Problem

Identification and

Hypothesis

Literature Review/Case

Studies

Opinion discussions

Title page

Abstract

Introduction/Problem

Identification and

Hypothesis

Literature Review/Case

Studies

Methodology of Research

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Work yet to be done

References/Bibliography

Appendices

Conclusions

References/Bibliography

Appendices

and

Materials

Description of type of

Research

Research

objectives/hypotheses

Data Analysis

Results of Research

Discussions

Recommendations

Conclusions

References/Bibliography

Appendices

Sources: Adapted from Appendices A, B & C attached.

EVALUATION OF RESEARCH PROPOSALS

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Oloyo (2001) has indicated the importance of research report as evaluation for worthiness,

sufficiency of work done, and for significant contribution to knowledge. In addition, soundness of

the research design, objectivity and clarity in reporting research findings, accuracy of statistical

analysis and inferences and validation of the conclusions are the major consideration in any

research report. Commissioned research is evaluated against the objectives, which the research is

set to achieve. Tools for evaluating research reports can differ with the type and purpose of the

report. Rather the assessor should rely on experience and expertise and using their own initiative

for fair assessment. Key elements of research such as abstract, introduction, literature review,

materials and methods, results, discussions, conclusions and recommendation should be questioned

for worthiness, sufficiency of research question or subject study, adequacy of literature review and

appropriateness of reference citation both in the text and as end matter, appropriateness of

experimental design, adequacy of experimental techniques or procedures, adequacy of

presentation of results and soundness of interpretation, discussion and conclusion. It also includes

conformity to style of journal for manuscript preparation, adherence to correct nomenclature and

units, originality of research work, main strength of the research work, main strength of the

research work, serious deficiencies of the research work and appropriateness of language such as

grammar and structure. It is important to have an evaluation sheet with a checklist of probing

question to assist the assessor. An example of the adopted evaluation criteria by the Academic

Programmes Committee (A.P.C.) of the School of Post-graduate Studies (S.P.G.S.) University Of

Lagos is as follows:

-Review These-

1. Is the background of project established? Yes ( ) No.( )

2. Are problems identified? Yes ( ) No ( )

3. Are Aim and Objectives well stated? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. Are the Hypotheses clearly stated (where applicable)? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. Is the conceptual/theoretical framework well stated? Yes( ) No (

)

6. Is the methodology appropriated? Yes( ) No ( )

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7. Are the findings appropriately / adequately analysed? Yes( ) No (

)

8. Is the work properly arranged according to S.P.G.S. format(s)? Yes( ) No ( )

9. Is the work yet to be done stated? Yes ( ) No ( )

10. Is the referencing and Bibliography properly done? Yes ( ) No ( )

11. Can we give unequivocal statement of the quality

of presentation and the work? Yes ( ) No (

)

12. Any other comments: …………………………………………………………….

(APC, 2004).

CONCLUSION

The pride in being an academic is seeing in our scholarly papers published: a symbol of the

accomplishment of sound contributes to knowledge. Writing scholarly papers (i.e. journals,

articles, and high rooted books.) are very difficult and tedious exercise, especially to the

practicing professionals in architecture. We have to publish as group scholars with knowledge in

the profession, discipline and field of architecture. It is necessary to disseminate research

findings to students, professional colleagues and the general reading public who are all the

consumers of our academic products. This is only possible through articles in learned journals,

conferences, and workshops both nationally as well as internationally.

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REFERENCES

1. Alo, B.I., 2003, “Guidelines for Research Proposal,” The Central Research Committee,

UNILAG. Information flash.

2. Amund, Dan- Israel, 2001, “Proposal Writing in the Sciences” Development Committee

Proceedings on Research Proposal Writing, UNILAG, pp.77-182.

3. Academic Programmes Committee (A.P.C.) 2004,” Evaluation criteria for theses &

Dissertation’ School of Post-Graduate studies, Unilag.

4. Berry R. (1986). How to write a research paper. 2nd Ed, Oxford: Pergamon press p.105.

5. Center Research Committee (C.R.C). 2001, “Annual Report on C.R.C” Development

Committee, UNILAG

6. National University Commission (N.U.C), 1999, Format for Presentation of Research

Proposals for Funding,” Centrally Coordinated research Fund Scheme. Booklet.

7. Ogunsanmi, O.E. (2003) ‘Research as a Tool of National Development” Yaba College Of

Technology p.15.

8. Okedele, Niyi. 1988, “Dissertation Experience in Architectural Professional Programmes” The

Journal of Association of Architectural Educators in Nigeria (AARCHES) Vol. 1. No 1 pp. 36-40.

9. Okedele, Niyi, 2003, “Sensitization Workshop on Research and Publication” Yaba college of

Technology, Lagos, p.2

10. Oloyo R. A. (2001), Fundamentals of Research Methodology For Social And Applied

Sciences Ilaro: Kingbond Investment Ltd.

11. Oyesiku, O.O. (2003), ‘Guide Towards Research and Publication.” Yaba College of Technology

Lagos, p. 5,6,12.

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12. Youngson, R.M. (1994) “The Guinness Encyclopedia of Science”, London: Guinness

Publications Ltd. p.12. .

APPENDICES

The following are research proposal formats as specified by the various organs of educational

systems in Nigeria:

APPENDIX - A

The Nigeria University Commission (N.U.C) Format

The Format for presentation of Research Proposals as specified by N.U.C is as follows:

1. Executive summary

Provide an umbrella that gives a summary of the key information in the entire proposal. This should

include the description of the structure, purpose and the cost of the project.

2. Introduction

Provide an introduction to the work, its focus and issue of national concern or development to

which it is targeted.

Briefly introduce the researchers. Attach their curriculum vitae as appendices (please).

3. Problem statement/statement of relevance

Define the problem in clear terms, describing the situation that calls for the study. This should

include some literature review.

4. Project goals and objectives

Please provide brief statements on the purpose of the study and the expected outcomes. Also,

clearly state the hypotheses to be tested if necessary.

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5. Methodology

Describe the nature of the research, stating clearly the material, methods, the instruments, the

sampling procedures and the method of analysis. Chosen methods must be defended if they are

novel and unorthodox.

6. Budget

Provide a budget, which should include a detailed estimate of the expected cost of the proposed

research work. This however, should exclude details of the manpower involved, the cost of

equipment to be used, allowances, research assistants and secretarial supporting staff, as funds

available are limited. It is assumed that researchers will take advantage of the human resources and

equipment on the ground for the purpose. Details of the cost of consumables could however be

included.

7. Conclusion

Provide a paragraph or two to reiterate the research goals and objective and to underscore the

importance and relevance of the expected outcomes to society (NUC, 1999).

APPENDIX - B

THE CENTRAL RESEARCH COMMITTEE (C.R.C.) OF THE UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS FORMAT

The following are the Guidelines for Research Proposal Writing presented by Professor Alo and

approved by the Central Research Committee of the University of Lagos:

1. Research Project Title

This must be brief scientifically or technically valid and intelligible.

2. Project/Executive Summary

This must be brief succinct and must capture the essence of the research.

3. Description of the Research

It should contain the following:

A clear statement of the work to be undertaken, how specific goals will be achieved.

Relationship of work to be undertaken to past activities.

Expected significance

Relation to the present state of knowledge in the field.

General plan of work including broad design of activities to be undertaken.14

A clear description of experimental methods and procedures.

The border impacts resulting from the proposed activities.

Visual materials, including charts, graphs, maps photographs and other (if applicable)

to be provided in support where appropriate.

A statement on how the project will be evaluated should address one or more of the

following:

Integration of research and education by advancing discovery and understanding.

Promoting teaching, learning and training.

Participation of under-represented groups (e.g. gender, ethnicity, disability,

geopolitical, e.t.c.) if applicable.

How the results if the research will be disseminated broadly to enhance scientific and

technological understanding.

Potential benefits of the proposed research to society at large.

4. Research Project Duration

The research project should contain a carefully thought out plan to complete the research in

a specified amount of time. Include a bar chart.

5. Distribution of Data and /or Samples and Publication of Results.

Where data or samples are collected, is there a management plan to securely preserve,

document and share data, samples, physical collections, curriculum materials and other

related research and education products.

Is there any provision for rapid publication of research results?

6. Biographic Sketches of Research

The proposal should include a short biographical sketch for each project person. (Includes

researcher’s publication most relevant to the research proposed).

7. Budget

It should contain a cumulative budget for the full term, presented on yearly basis.

8. Conclusion

The research project should contain a careful thought-out conclusion. (Alo, 2003)

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APPENDIX C

THE SCHOOL OF POST-GRADUATE STUDIES (S.P.G.S) FORMAT

1. Introduction

Background to the Study

Theoretical Framework of the Study

Statement of the Problem

Purpose of Study

Research Question(s)

Hypothesis

Significance of the Study

2. Scope of the study

3. Literature review

4. Methodology and data collection

Study area

Samples & Techniques

Pilot Study/Case Study

Instrumentation

Study Variables

Scoring

Data analysis

5. Results obtained/work done/contributions

6. Work to be done

(Coiled from SPGS, Academic Programmes Committee, UNILAG, 2004)

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