Title: Trail vs Spoken Word: Understanding the Choice of written English Communication and Oral communication among Students

RESEARCH PROTOCOL

A research protocol is essentially a map of your research, of what you will be doing, how and why?

1. Aims and Objectives -

Aim: This research aims to have a better understanding as to how written English communication is more preferred than the oral English communication amongst the students
coming from different departments in Saint Francis Xavier College.

Objectives:
● To interview 10 students from each departments
● To identify the their preferences between oral and written English communication
● To identify the reasons for their preferences between Written and Oral English Communication
●
2. Background
Exploring the preferences of students at Saint Francis Xavier College when it comes to written and oral English communication is a valuable undertaking. This topic, though less
frequently discussed, holds immense potential for shedding light on the factors influencing a student's anxiety and confidence in using the English language. Addressing these
issues can have a profound impact on students' overall language proficiency and self-assurance. The preferences of students at Saint Francis Xavier College between
written and oral English communication is not only a valuable academic pursuit but also a practical means of addressing students' ongoing struggles with
language confidence. By delving into the factors influencing these preferences and taking targeted actions, the college can contribute to the growth and
development of its students in terms of language proficiency and self-assurance.

3. Methods

Understanding the choice of written English communication and oral communication among students requires a qualitative research approach that involves collecting rich and
detailed data to gain insights into the factors influencing this choice. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to collect qualitative data for this research:
 1. Participant Selection: We will select 10 participants for each departments naming: college of teachers education, college of criminal justice education, and college of
business education.

2. Data Collection Methods:

● In-depth Interviews: We will Conduct one-on-one interviews with selected students. These interviews will be semi-structured, allowing for open-ended questions and
follow-up probes. we will ask about their communication preferences, experiences, and the factors that influence their choices between written and oral communication.

● Focus Groups: Organize focus group discussions with small groups of students. This can help capture group dynamics and explore shared experiences and opinions.
Encourage group members to discuss and debate their communication choices.

● Document Analysis: Review written documents, such as essays, emails, or social media posts, to gain insights into the students' written communication skills and
preferences.

3. Data Collection Process:

● Develop an interview guide or focus group discussion guide with open-ended questions that explore the following areas:
● Reasons for choosing written or oral communication.
● Perceived strengths and weaknesses of each form.
● Contextual factors influencing their choices.
● Personal experiences and cultural influences.
● Communication goals and preferences in different situations.

5. Data Recording: Record interviews and focus group discussions (with participants' consent) or take detailed notes during participant observation.

6. Data Analysis: Transcribe recorded interviews and discussions. Analyze the data using qualitative analysis techniques such as thematic coding. Identify recurring themes,
patterns, and insights related to students' choices between written and oral communication.

7. Triangulation: Use multiple data sources (interviews, focus groups, observations, document analysis) to cross-verify findings and enhance the validity of our results.

8. Ethical Considerations: Ensure that we adhere to ethical guidelines, including obtaining informed consent from participants, maintaining confidentiality, and addressing any
potential harm or discomfort.
 9. Reporting Findings: Present our findings in a comprehensive qualitative research report. Use quotes and anecdotes from participants to illustrate key points. Include a
discussion of implications and recommendations based on your findings.

By following these steps and using a combination of qualitative data collection methods, we can gain a deep understanding of the factors influencing students' choices between
written and oral communication in English. This approach allows us to collect detailed and context-rich data that can inform educational practices and communication strategies.

4. Ethical Issues

Informed Consent: Ensure that participants have provided informed consent to participate in the study.We will explain the purpose of the research, how their data will be used, and any
potential risks or benefits. Participants will have the option to withdraw from the study at any time without consequences.

Privacy and Confidentiality: Protect the privacy and confidentiality of the participants. using any personally identifiable information in research reports or publications will be avoided.
Use codes or pseudonyms instead of real names will be done.

Data Collection and Storage: Safeguard the data collected during the study. Store data securely and limit access to authorized researchers only. Consider using encryption and secure
servers to protect sensitive information.

Bias and Stereotyping: we, as researchers, wil be mindful of potential biases and stereotypes that may arise when analyzing communication preferences. We will avoid making
generalizations or perpetuating stereotypes about certain groups of students based on their communication choices.

Coercion and Pressure: Ensure that participants are not coerced or pressured into participating in the study. This is especially important in academic settings where students might feel
obligated to participate.

Deception: We will avoid using deception in the research process. Participants should be provided with accurate information about the study and its objectives.

Beneficence: Consider the well-being of participants. If the study involves sensitive topics or potentially distressing questions, provide appropriate support and resources to participants
who may become emotionally affected.

Data Accuracy and Transparency: Report the findings accurately and transparently. We will not manipulate or selectively report data to fit a particular narrative or agenda.

Conflict of Interest: Declare any potential conflicts of interest that could bias the research findings or interpretation. Maintain objectivity in the research process.
 Publishing Results: When publishing the results, we will ensure that the findings are presented in a way that respects the dignity and privacy of the participants. we will avoid revealing
specific details that could lead to the identification of individual participants.

5. Resources
● Travel Expenses:
Plan our trips efficiently to minimize costs.
Look for grants or funding opportunities that support research-related travel.
Consider virtual alternatives when physical travel is not essential.
● Accommodation: Example:
Compare accommodation options to find the most cost-effective ones.
Seek out accommodations near us
research site or conference venue to reduce travel time and expenses.

● Interpreting/Translation:
Consider using online translation tools for basic tasks.
Collaborate with bilingual colleagues or local experts when possible.

● Data Input/Help with Analysis:

Tips: Delegate data entry tasks to research assistants or use data entry software. Collaborate with statisticians or data analysts for complex analyses. Learn relevant software tools
or programming languages to conduct your own analysis.

● Funding and Grants:

Research funding opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and institutions.
Write compelling grant proposals outlining your research objectives and expected outcomes.
Build a network to identify potential sources of financial support. .

● Library and Research Materials:

Utilize your institution's library resources.
Explore open-access journals and repositories
Consider interlibrary loan services for hard-to-find materials.
● Technology and Equipment:
Assess your needs and prioritize essential equipment.
Seek equipment loans or grants for specialized tools.
Explore open-source or free software alternatives when possible.

6. Time Scale
Month 1: Project Initiation and Planning
● Define research objectives and questions.
● Develop a research proposal.
● Create a detailed research plan.
● Obtain necessary approvals and permissions.

Months 2-3: Literature Review

● Review relevant literature on written and oral communication.

● Identify key theories and concepts.
● Collect and organize relevant research articles.

Months 4-5: Data Collection and Analysis

● Design research instruments (surveys, interviews, etc.).
● Recruit participants (students).
● Collect data on their communication preferences.
● Begin data analysis.

Months 6-7: Data Analysis and Interpretation

● Continue data analysis.
● Identify patterns and trends in communication choices.
● Draw preliminary conclusions from the data.
 Months 8-9: Final Data Analysis and Report Writing
● Complete data analysis and interpretation.
● Write the research report, including methodology, findings, and discussion.
● Revise and edit the report for clarity and coherence.

Months 10-11: Peer Review and Feedback

● Share the research report with peers and advisors.
● Receive feedback and make necessary revisions.

Month 12: Finalize Research and Dissemination

● Incorporate final feedback into the research report.
● Prepare presentations or articles for dissemination.
● Present findings at conferences or submit the article for publication.

7. Dissemination/output
● Who will you target and how do you want to disseminate your conclusion?
Possible dissemination
● Internal reports , external reports, conferences, workshop ( internal/external)
Possible target audience
● NGOs , Academics, Community

● Internal Reports: These reports will be shared with relevant departments and members within our institution. Workshops and training sessions will be
organized to equip educators with strategies to address the diverse communication preferences of students effectively. The insights gained from this study
will inform curriculum development efforts to better align with the needs of our student body.

● External Reports: This external report will be made available to educational institutions, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. We aim to share our
insights through presentations at conferences, webinars, and academic publications to promote discussions on adapting communication strategies to meet
the evolving needs of students and professionals in a globalized world.

❖ Dissemination Method
● Academic Publications: Share research findings through peer-reviewed journals, conference papers, and academic books. This is an essential method for
reaching the academic and research community.
● Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as policymakers, industry leaders, or advocacy groups, to ensure research
findings are considered in decision-making processes.
● Engage with Online Communities: Participate in relevant online forums, discussion boards, and social media groups to share research findings and
engage in discussions with interested parties.