Concept Papers and Definitions

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a concept paper?

To define an idea or a concept and explain its essence (correct)

To provide a detailed final report of a research project

To conduct the entire research study

To persuade readers to accept a particular viewpoint

Which of the following defines a formal definition?

It compares and contrasts the term with similar terms

It includes examples and anecdotes to elaborate the term

It provides a brief description without distinguishing features

It includes the term, its class, and its distinguishing features (correct)

What is NOT typically included in a concept paper's introduction?

An overview of the research methodology (correct)

Why the project is important

The applicant's mission and partnerships

The potential sponsor's mission

What is the essence of informal definitions?

They lack distinguishing features Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an extended definition?

A triangle is a plane figure with three straight bounding sides explained with illustrations and examples Signup and view all the answers

What question do concept papers typically answer?

What is the essence of the idea or concept? Signup and view all the answers

Which part of a concept paper addresses the intersection of the applicant's mission and the sponsor's mission?

Introduction Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes extended definitions from other types?

They use various rhetorical patterns to elaborate the meaning Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Purpose section in a proposal?

To highlight gaps in knowledge and the problem to be solved. Signup and view all the answers

How do goals differ from objectives in a project proposal?

Goals outline desired conditions, but objectives specify measurable outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the project description section of a proposal?

The unique aspects of the approach and a compelling case for funding. Signup and view all the answers

In the Budget/Support section, what is typically outlined?

A summary of main budget categories or a total request amount. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Methodology section of a proposal refer to?

The set of philosophical foundations behind the research method. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Introduction in a simple concept paper?

To serve as a hook to engage the readers' interest. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding benefits and anticipated outcomes in a project proposal?

They detail the individuals or groups who will benefit and how. Signup and view all the answers

What is the overall purpose of a simple concept paper?

To define, illustrate, or explain a potentially new or controversial concept. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the introduction in a concept paper?

To define the issue or problem that needs to be solved Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a suggested question for building the body of a concept paper?

Who are the authors that make claims about this definition? Signup and view all the answers

What should the conclusion of a concept paper accomplish?

It summarizes the main points and emphasizes the thesis statement. Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy can enhance the reader's understanding of the concept being discussed?

Using images or familiar experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What is essential to clarify when discussing a concept in the body of the paper?

Conflicting ideas or definitions regarding the concept. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the use of examples in the body of a concept paper?

Examples are intended to aid in the understanding of the concept. Signup and view all the answers

In the introduction of a concept paper, which item should be explicitly stated?

The definitions and descriptions of the concept. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to present related literature in the body of the paper?

To support the idea being defined and analyze conflicting views. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Concept Papers

A concept paper defines an idea or concept, clarifying its essence (what it is and what about it).
Concept papers summarize research projects or proposals, outlining the project, its importance, and execution plan.

Defining Concepts

Definitions provide a framework for discussions, explaining terms.
Types of definitions include:
- Formal: Includes the term, its class, and distinguishing features.
- Informal: Lacks distinguishing features.
- Extended: Detailed explanations using various rhetorical techniques (e.g., description, comparison, contrast, cause-and-effect).

Parts of a Concept Paper (Research Papers/Proposals)

Introduction:
- Shows how the applicant's mission aligns with the funder's.
- Explains why the funder should support the project.
- Introduces project partners and their involvement.
Purpose/Rationale:
- Outlines previous research and identifies gaps in knowledge.
- Explains the problem the project aims to address (or the need).
- Note: Can be combined with the introduction into a background section.
Project Description:
- Highlights unique, innovative, and/or novel aspects of the approach.
- Presents a compelling funding case.
- Includes:
  - Goals & Objectives: High-level aims and measurable steps to achieve them.
  - Methodology & Timelines: Description of methods and a schedule.
Benefits/Anticipated Outcomes: Details who benefits and how.
Budget/Support:
- Outlines budget categories or a total amount with a brief explanation of use.
- Alternatively provides an outline of main budget categories.

Simple Concept Papers

Focus on defining, illustrating, or explaining a new, unfamiliar, or controversial concept.
Introduction: Hooks the reader, outlines the thesis, arguments, and purpose.
- Includes questions about the issue/problem, the concept itself, and who defines it.
Body: Elaborates on the main points of the concept.
- Uses related literature to support the idea.
- Addresses conflicting ideas or definitions.
- Includes examples to clarify the concept.
- Answers questions like, "What other terms describe it?", "Are there illustrations?" or "Conflicting descriptions? How are they seen in the work?", etc.
- Mentions and explains examples used to explain the concept.
Conclusion: Restates the thesis, summarizes the body's points, and emphasizes the concept's importance.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the essential components of concept papers, including their purpose and structure. It also explores different types of definitions used in research and how to effectively communicate ideas. Test your knowledge on how to draft and analyze concept papers!