Stages of Research (Undergraduate and Graduate Levels)
Early Stage - A project proposal description pre-data collection, i.e. literature review and synthesis to hypothesis development and proposed future research approach or design.
In Progress - A project with established objectives or hypothesis, experimental design or theoretical model is being tested, and data collection or sample analyses are in progress but not at the level of being fully synthesized to make definitive conclusions.
Advanced - A project with completed data gathering and analyses, as well as draws a conclusion that logically extrapolates from the inquiry findings. A project at the level of processing data toward publication and dissemination in professional settings.