Research Title A Comparative study of classroom-based learning experience Vs Virtual Learning experiences of employees in a Company.

Aim(s) The aim of the research is to assess the effectiveness of traditional classroom-based versus virtual training interventions in a fast food company in Britain. To achieve this primary aim the research will focus on the following objectives. i. ii. iii. iv. An insight into the usefulness of the identified training methods and compare the effectiveness of each; Analyse which learning method is more impactful; Make recommendations to improve training design and delivery to the management of the company; and Compare and contrast research findings to existing research.

Background The personal value of the research to me: even though the current trend emphasizes the value and effectiveness of virtual learning environment, the authors find online learning challenging from past personal experience and therefore has personal interest in exploring this topic. From a professional perspective, as an aspiring Learning and Development practitioner, this research will give greater insight on individual learning preferences and how best training can be designed and facilitated to meet individual learning needs.

Research Issue

Method The proposed research will use a multi approach combining quantitative and qualitative design and analysis. Qualitatively the researcher will examine secondary data such as Corporate Goal and Strategy, Mission Statement, Training Strategy

Ethics The researcher will maintain the highest level of ethics throughout the entire research process. Respect will be shown to all participants and care will be taken to respect their personal differences and diversity. The researcher will seek permission of the organisation and the consent of prospective participants before commencing the research. Also, participants right to opt out at any stage of the study will be respected. Additionally, information gathered will be kept securely and will be used for the intended purpose only. Strictest confidentiality will be observed through-out and even after the conduct of the research. The researcher will design the questionnaire to allow for anonymous responses from participants.

Finally, even though the researcher is working against a limited time schedule, care will be given not to put undue pressure on participants, and to administer the survey instrument at a convenient time to them.

Proposed Plan of Action January 2012 Receive Research Proposal feedback from Lecturer, which if successful, the author will conduct more literature review research to gain more understanding of the empirical and theoretical literature around the chosen topic.

February 2012

Develop questions and prepare questionnaires and send off to the company of research study Conducting more literature review research to develop and support arguments. Read more journals and articles, make notes and send email reminder to company for questionnaire feedback. Contact Supervisor to discuss dissertation progress and implement advice accordingly in dissertation Data evaluation and analysis of questionnaire information gathered from company Arrange to see Supervisor with draft dissertation to discuss progress and implement changes as advised by Supervisor Develop conclusion for dissertation, review completed dissertation and email draft dissertation to Supervisor

March 2012

April 2012

May 2012

June 2012

July 2012

August 2012

Integrate changes as suggested by Supervisor, conduct final review, check for typographical errors, structure, references and grammar and sense checks, font size and spacing requirement. Submit dissertation

September 2012

References

Structure for your Research Proposal

Title Aim (s) Background Method Plan of work
Normally no more than ten words A broad statement of the purpose of your project, which may include a list of specific objectives/ hypotheses and questions A background to the project including initial literature review; why the research is significant; why you wish to undertake it Indicate the methods, tools or approaches by which you plan to collect information or data to address your aims Outline the main phases or general timetable for completion of the project (Note : Supervisors are appointed by mid-December and the project must be completed by the 1st September 2012)

Ethics References

A short statement indicating that you have considered the ethical issues involved and what you see these as being These may range from academic journal articles to the minutes of meetings or wider data sources but specific to topic not general!