LESSON 2 TOPIC: CONCEPT PAPERS

Question 1

A ________________ is a summary of a project or study, a proposal providing an in-depth discussion of a topic, with the
goal of extensive research, or as a result of a current project.
Modified from Spickard (2005), “All research projects need a concept paper: a summary that tells the reader what the
project is, why it is important, and how it will be carried out”. A concept paper may serve as the foundation and
benchmark for potential projects that needed further investigation and improvement. So when is the concept paper
written?
A ________________ must be written before completing a full-blown paper or project. The primary function of the concept
paper is to explain the importance of a particular research project, likewise, uses persuasive text. It serves as a
summary that initiates a proposal, thesis, dissertation, project, or proposal. Why do you think writing concept papers
is important?

Answer 1

concept paper

Question 2

The Importance of Concept Papers

Answer 2

A concept paper can be used in any of the following ways:
* To determine whether a project proposal or idea is feasible
* To develop potential solutions or investigations of a certain project
* To serve as the foundation for a full proposal
* To interest potential benefactors and sponsors

Question 3

A concept paper is divided into parts or components in which relative to the kind of concept paper you are asked to prepare. There is a certain requirement depending on a specific area of discipline or program. The format may vary from organizations, institutions, businesses to industries. Basically, there is a certain format prescribed or being asked based on the requirement by a certain institution or industry, and thus, must be followed. There could also be a number of pages required, however, a typical concept paper may range from four to five pages in the academic field, while two to three pages in the business field. In the academe, concept papers that do not follow the guidelines below will not be reviewed or accepted. The following are some of the essential components of a concept paper of a specific field and discipline.

Basically, there is a certain format prescribed or being asked based on the requirement by a certain institution or
industry, and thus, must be followed. There could also be a number of pages required, however, a typical concept
paper may range from four to five pages in the academic field, while two to three pages in the business field. In the
academe, concept papers that do not follow the guidelines below will not be reviewed or accepted.
The following are some of the essential components of a concept paper of a specific field and discipline.

Answer 3

Various Kinds of Concept Papers

Question 4

Basic Format for Academics (most courses)

Answer 4

• Title
• Rationale
• Theoretical or Conceptual Framework
• Research Questions
• Method
• References

Question 5

Basic Format for Academics (Mathematics and Sciences)

Answer 5

• Statement of the Problem
• Purpose of the Study
• Research Questions
• Hypotheses
• Brief Review of the Literature
• Research Method
• References

Question 6

Basic Format for Business or Industry

Answer 6

Introduction
* Purpose/Need
* Project Description
* Goals/Objectives/Aims
* Methods
* Timeline
* Expected Outcomes/Benefits
* Budget/Needs & Requested Support

Question 7

SAMPLE CONCEPT PAPERS:

Answer 7

SAMPLE CONCEPT PAPERS:
ABC Project Concept Paper:
Title: How to involve young parents in advocating for proposed school regulation

Background of this idea
ABC’s mission is to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. In the past few years, we have been concerned about how to best advocate for young parents with children who have disabilities—especially since a recently proposed school regulation will have a huge impact on their lives. To sufficiently influence policy makers, these parents need to be educated on the issues and involved in advocating for the new regulation. Their involvement will give ABC’s advocacy work the necessary visible support of young families. However, few young parents participate in ABC’s advocacy programs, preferring to join XYZ for their relevant information and support groups or LMN for their help in addressing problems in the school system. ABC recognizes that young parents have a limited amount of free time and wants to make it easy for them to participate in its advocacy efforts