Research Study Assumptions, Limitations, and Delimitations

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Getting StartedThree important elements of the research proposal

When developing a research proposal, three important elements of a proposal include the assumptions, limitations, and delimitations. As researchers, we assume certain things about our study; however, those assumptions cannot be verified. We must recognize the limitations of the study; in other words, we must identify the weaknesses in the study. We must also identify the delimitations that set boundaries around the study. Some examples of delimitations include the time of year the study is conducted or the characteristics of the participants.

In this workshop, you will understand the differences among assumptions, limitations, and delimitations. Additionally, you will be able to discuss in writing some examples of the three.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate in writing the differences among assumptions, limitations, and delimitations.

Resources

  • Textbook: Writing Empirical Research Reports: A Basic Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences

Background Information

Assumptions: Assumptions are facts assumed to be true, but not verified. For example, the researcher assumes that the participants fully understood the questions being asked.

Limitations: Limitations are weaknesses in the study. As researchers, we want to presume that our study is perfectly designed. Unfortunately, all studies have limitations. An example of a limitation would be the use of purposive sampling, which limits the researcher’s ability to generalize the findings to all areas of social work.

Delimitations: The delimitations of the study establish the boundaries of the study. Unfortunately, researchers do not have the time or the resources to interview or survey everyone. Therefore, parameters must be established. For example, the researcher for a domestic violence study will use a purposive sampling method that includes only women and not men. In other words, the study excludes men from participating.

Instructions

  1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.
  2. In your textbook Writing Empirical Research Reports: A Basic Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, read pages 73–78.
  3. Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following discussion questions:
    1. Discuss the differences among assumptions, limitations, and delimitations.
    2. Give one example of each from the textbook, reading, or an empirical article of social work, identifying the assumption, limitation, and delimitation.
  4. Your initial post of at least 250 words is due by the end of the third day of the workshop.

Your postings should also:

  1. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.
  2. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.
  3. Provide clarification to classmates’ questions and insight into the discussion.
  4. If sources are used, be sure to align with APA format and style.
  5. Be posted on three different days during the workshop.