This is the research proposal form for Orthopaedic Surgery Resident members.

 

The Introduction gives a background of current knowledge and identifies the research question. This section should include of a statement of the problem, the clinical relevance, and a synopsis of the literature.
The hypothesis sets the goal of the study, and it should be specific enough to be testable. To be testable, the hypothesis needs to a clear statement that will be either accepted or rejected, depending on your research findings. Examples of Clear hypotheses: - Test Hypothesis: The proportions of morbidities are higher in July [due to new residents] than in June. (Comparison of proportions: Chi-squared) - Null Hypothesis: There is no difference USMLE-I scores in those that pass Boards Part I and those that fail. (Comparison of two means: t-test) Examples of Unclear hypotheses: - Residents will be assessed for timing of morbidities. - To assess the influence of USMLE-I scores on Boards Part I pass rate.
1. Study design. Examples: prospective randomized trial, cohort, case-controlled 2. Subjects identification (if clinical). Include inclusion and exclusion criteria, subject recruitment, and setting. If the subjects are divided into groups, identify the different groups. 3. Materials identification (if basic science). Include items needed for the research, such as reagents, tissue, and lab resources. 4. Intervention or test. Identify all the independent variables that will be collected and tested. 5. Outcomes measures. Clarify the outcome or dependent variable. This is the test variable that is central to the research question and hypothesis. 6. Sample size estimate. 7. Statistical test. State the statistical test that will be used. Why was the particular test chosen? What is being compared to what? The hypothesis statement should set the stage for the statistical test choice.
Outline the projected timeline from beginning to completion. Important milestones are: 1. Research Committee approval 2. IRB approval 3. Subject recruitment or materials acquisition 4. Intervention and testing, with data collection 5. Data analysis 6. Initial draft 7. Revision 8. Abstract submission (optional) 9. Journal submission, revision, and publication