Research Protocols
Welcome to the Research Protocols page of Davila Applied Anthropological Research DAAR, LLC., an applied research firm founded and led by Miguel Angel Davila, an experienced applied anthropologist and certified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE).
Each entry in this portfolio showcases a full research protocol—personally designed and authored—demonstrating our expertise in applied, field-oriented research. These protocols reflect our approach: ethical, rigorous, and grounded in real-world contexts. They serve as live examples of how we tackle complex challenges through human-centered inquiry. This collection is shared to promote transparency, inspire dialogue, and illustrate the depth of our applied research practice. Whether you’re a fellow scholar, institutional partner, or a prospective client, this is a window into our capabilities and values.
What you will find
A concise abstract summarizing each research initiative
A link to download the full
research protocol (PDF)
A link to participate in the active survey (when available)
Let’s build research that matters—together.
Protocols
How Do Disabled Entrepreneurs Understand and Use Digital Media to Advertise Their Businesses?
Author
Miguel Angel Davila, Applied Anthropologist
Abstract
This study employs contractarianism as a theoretical framework to examine the foundational principle that all individuals possess an equal right to participate in societal life. However, meaningful participation is contingent upon one’s ability to contribute in ways that generate surplus—whether in resources or labor—rather than deficits. The research foregrounds the structural class divide between advantaged and disadvantaged groups; wherein material status affords one group disproportionate authority and influence over the other. This asymmetry reinforces a persistent cycle of inequality, impeding equitable participation and perpetuating systemic disadvantage across generations. By interrogating these dynamics, particularly within the contexts of disability, digital media access, and entrepreneurial engagement, the study reveals the institutional barriers that obstruct equal opportunities and undermine inclusive citizenship. Keywords: disability, digital media, entrepreneurship, citizenry, labor
Non-Working Adult Students’ Perceptions of Adjunct Labor: A User Experience Lens on Neoliberal Higher Education
Author
Miguel Angel Davila, Applied Anthropologist
Abstract
This study examines how non-working adult second language (L2) users perceive the labor conditions of adjunct faculty within U.S. higher education and how these perceptions shape their assessments of instructional quality. By focusing on students not engaged in external employment, the research isolates the classroom experience to evaluate how instructional labor precarity influences educational encounters. Drawing on a quantitative ethnographic framework grounded in applied linguistics and anthropological inquiry, the study situates L2 student perspectives within broader neoliberal academic labor structures. As universities increasingly rely on contingent instructors, the research foregrounds the lived experiences of non-working L2 students as tuition-paying participants navigating linguistic demands and institutional inequity. Survey-based data provide insight into how this population interprets fairness, value, and educational legitimacy within a system marked by market logics and asymmetrical labor relations. Keywords: applied linguistics, higher education, neoliberalism, equity, labor
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"As a start up, I utilized Davila Applied Anthropological Research for marketing, statistical trends and demographical data with a focus on creating pitch decks and other communications for investors and applying for grants. Miguel’s team provided much needed insight on what marketing angles would be most effective. This service is a must have for companies looking to scale their growth. Kudos to Davila Anthropological Research Company!!!"
“We went to Miguel during a critical time in our organizational life cycle, as we were seeking to improve our fundraising efforts while building much needed partnerships. Miguel’s professional and expertise were unmatched, as he conducted research, analyzed data, built reports, and created presentation decks. Working with our leadership team, Miguel smartly and inventively found alignment between his passion for anthropology with the practical development needs of a non-profit.”
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