If a pilot study is to be conducted, it should be described in this section, with a statement of anticipated tests and data analysis procedures. Include a timetable and budget, and, if humans or animals are to be used as subjects, proof that their protection is ensured. The final section is a bibliography including, but not limited to, all works cited in the earlier sections. There are a variety of qualitative and quantitative forms of research that may be utilized to explore problems in information science, library science, information systems, and information environments. Students must confer with their Adviser to select the most appropriate methods for their particular inquiry since each method requires specific strategies and procedures.
Some problems require a variety of methods to gather and analyze relevant data.
It should be of publishable quality, meeting acceptance criteria for scholarly journals. While students are encouraged to publish, this is not required. The research paper is expected to involve a level of effort greater than that normally expended on a term paper, but less than that expended on a master's thesis. It should demonstrate competence in the use of appropriate research methodology. Students should arrange with a faculty member to serve as adviser for the research paper, and confer with them as needed during the research and writing stages.