If you read the instructions, you are to prepare a list of information requirements: Each area listed in the assignment broken down into 6-8 PIRs, each of those broken down further (into EEIs or subquestions). Each of those EEIs or subquestions should have a set of possible targets of collection (2-4 targets). So how would you show this complexity in a narrative?
QUESTION
If you read the instructions, you are to prepare a list of information requirements: Each area listed in the assignment broken down into 6-8 PIRs, each of those broken down further (into EEIs or subquestions). Each of those EEIs or subquestions should have a set of possible targets of collection (2-4 targets). So how would you show this complexity in a narrative? How do you assigned collection methods to each combination of target-subquestion when you will have dozens? The assignment says a chart. Many people show this information in Excel or a table in Word. There is a section of the assignment that asks you to write a paragraph for each INT that explains how you will be using each INT in the plan–a summary. So this is mostly NOT an essay. You need to think about how to best communicate complex information..
The Midterm Assignment is attached as a WORD document to this assignment.
The Midterm Assignment requires you to act in the role of a collection planner at the division-level for a Marine Corps Division tasked with an amphibious operation.
A scenario has been developed and described in the assignment, along with what you are expected to produce and submit.
Below is the rubric for this assignment. Please be careful to read the assignment, follow the instructions, and then double check your work against the Rubric to make sure you have covered all requirements to earn the best grade possible.
ANSWER
When faced with a complex research plan that involves multiple areas, PIRs (Primary Investigative Questions), EEIs (Enduring Understandings or Essential Inquiries), and targets of collection, it is crucial to present the information in a clear and organized manner. While a narrative format can be used, using a chart or table is often more effective for visualizing the complexity and relationships between different elements.
To create the chart or table, you can use software like Excel or a table in Word. Each row can represent a specific PIR or EEI, and each column can represent a subquestion or target of collection. In the cells of the table, you can indicate the assigned collection method for each combination of subquestion and target.
For example, the chart/table may look like this:
| | Subquestion 1 | Subquestion 2 | Subquestion 3 |
|——-|—————|—————|—————|
| Target 1 | Method A | Method B | Method C |
| Target 2 | Method B | Method C | Method A |
| Target 3 | Method C | Method A | Method B |
This format allows you to easily see which collection method is assigned to each combination of subquestion and target.
In the paragraph summary section for each INT (Inquiry), you can provide a brief explanation of how you will use that specific INT in your research plan. Describe the purpose and relevance of the INT and how it aligns with the overall objectives of the study. Highlight how the information collected through the assigned collection methods will contribute to addressing the INT and provide insights into the research questions or objectives.
By utilizing a chart or table and providing clear summaries for each INT, you can effectively present the complexity of your research plan and demonstrate a systematic approach to data collection and analysis.
