The Personal Model for Research version 2 and its visualization method to learn design of research proposals

摘要

This paper introduces the “Personal Model for Research” (PMR) version 2 as a framework and a tool to learn design of research proposals. It is better to say “design” instead of “writing” as usually referred in literature because “writing” cognitively induces to see the making of a research proposal as a linear sequence of steps, when in practice the articulation of its elements is a “design” activity: non-linear and iterative. Consequently, the Design Thinking approach is one core foundation of the PMR. Another core foundation is Personal Motivation because it is the driving force to move towards an end and, therefore, complete projects. Thus, to identify personal interests as sources for motivation to do a research is a key activity that must be made at the beginning. The application of the PMR is supported by the “Canvas for Research”, a visualization method created to make visible its conceptual design and facilitate the articulation of elements for a research proposal before writing it as a document. As an ultimate purpose, the PMR aims to help students to think of research as an opportunity to demonstrate the best that they are able to do, thus contributing to knowledge and to humankind.