Assignment Task: Motivation Theories Grant Proposal Project
Grant Project: Produce a grant proposal with a motivational component applied to an area of interest. By writing a mini-grant proposal, students will:
- Gain an understanding of the basic steps of grant development guided by theory and evidence
- Review what is known on the topic of interest
- Plan a well-designed applied program or intervention that is theory and evidence based
Timeline
SEPTEMBER 22
Students submit an idea for a grant project and an "elevator pitch" for it. Elevator pitch à a brief (~2 minutes; or a long paragraph), persuasive argument that students use to spark interest in their idea and explore the need and general objective - this will be written but we will share in small groups in class. Need Assignment Help?
OCTOBER 03
"Letter of Intent" Students will identify a compelling program or intervention and write a convincing proposal. One single-page proposal idea (Called a "Letter of Intent") explaining the problem to be addressed, central goals of the applied program, general idea for proposed program, and the significance (need). It should beno more than1 single spaced page but at least 300 words.
DECEMBER 1 - Proposal Due (include the following sections)(30% of class grade)
Aims and Theoretical Basis: the goal of this section is to introduce the aims of the proposal (e.g., goals of the applied program) and why it is important. What problem is being addressed, use citations to provide a compelling case. Articulate how the proposal advances knowledge in the motivational science field or directly fulfills an applied need. Present a theory or theories that are used to guide and support the program. Additionally, in this section students should offer several hypotheses or expectations about the impact of the program and this should be linked to evidence and theory (~1-2 pages).
Background: the goal of this section is to review prior relevant research on the research topic. Students will lay out what is known and what remains unknown about the topic. This section is meant to help the "grant manager (i.e. the reviewer)" understand how the program is situated in the context of both research and other programs (~1-2 pages).
Method: The goal of this section is to provide a broad technical description of the proposed plan: Students will write to convince that the idea deserves funding. Students will clearly describe their proposed program and show how it is linked to theory and evidence. Include how you will assess that you are successful in meeting your objectives/aims. ~1-2 pages
Budget and Budget Justification: Well thought out budgets are critical to successful grant applications. Careful thought to what is needed in order to execute a program is very important. Do your best to estimate what resources and associated expenses are needed to carry out your program. Include an itemized list with associated expenses and a paragraph justifying each line item. ~1 page
References: Include a full APA formatted reference list.
Consult with the instructor with any questions or concerns to guide the final proposal. The final grant proposal should be about 5-6 pages(single spaced) not including references. Papers will be graded based on creativity and accurate theoretical and empirical basis for the proposal as well as ability to clearly communicate concepts.
DECEMBER 1- Presentations (5% of class grade)
"Three Minute Thesis" format presentation: Students will prepare a three-minute presentation to the class of the final proposal. This should be a compelling "Ted Talk" style presentation that is succinct yet thorough. The motivational focus must be central. Use a single PowerPoint slide or visual.