Assignment

Assignment

Question 1. Review the Determining Whether a Proposed Research Project is Realistic and Practical checklist on page 110 of the text. Using “The Problem” section, discuss if your research proposal problem developed to date is realistic and practical.

Comment 1

Sometimes it was noted that measures seemed to be included more because of the ease of data collection than that they provided adequate tests of the hypotheses. Over one-fourth of the proposals were criticized because the measures were not appropriate; for example, if there was an exclusive reliance on self-report measures or if information could be obtained more reliably from medical records than directly from the subjects. The most recurrent logistical problem dealt with data collection. Over 40% of the proposals were identified as having problems related to data collection. An example of reviewer comment was that the proposal gave no attention to data completeness or quality control and that there was questionable reliability of data collection. Proposed data collection or analysis after the funding period was to be completed was seen as problematic. Other frequently identified logistical problems included data management and difficulties associated with the recruitment of subjects. Another important administrative issue was the specification of a work plan including personnel sufficient to complete necessary activities and a clearly articulated description of responsibilities.

Comment 2

In choosing a mentor, remember that mentoring is a multifaceted relationship. It involves a need for guidance for the mentee and the interest in and ability to provide such guidance on the part of the mentor. It also involves a real commitment on the part of both. As you establish a mentoring relationship, it is crucial to keep in mind that both parties have responsibilities. Because it is likely (albeit not incontrovertibly proven) that mentoring is particularly important in helping the young investigator in his or her research career, what are the crucial attributes of a mentor, and what must you, as the mentee, do. So, choosing a research mentor is a complex and dynamic process. It succeeds best if careful forethought and planning has occurred on both sides and if both mentee and mentor are actively committed and engaged. You need to make sure that you are receptive to mentoring. On the other side, you need to be sure that the mentor(s) you choose are committed to you and the process and have the necessary skills or are at least committed to developing them.

Comment 3

A large number of pathways to research are possible in the cardiovascular sciences, and the specifics of what and how to choose depend on numerous factors, as a function of both the individual and the broad environment. Completion of a research project is almost always beneficial to early-career individuals, whether or not research plays a major role in their subsequent careers. Success in choosing a project depends on many factors and individuals. It is almost universally accepted that having 1 or more mentors is a major help in furthering professional goals at all career stages, particularly early on in the cardiovascular ...