Research problem identification for PhD scholars
Research problem identification for PhD scholars
Research problem is well-articulated problem or knowledge gap, which a researcher tries to solve through systematic research.
Research Problem
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What is a research problem?
Research problem is well-articulated problem or knowledge gap, which a researcher tries to solve through systematic research. It is the backbone of any academic research, and it directs the development of research questions, hypotheses, method, and analysis. A well-articulated research problem lies at the core of making a study pertinent, feasible, and contributory to its respective field.
A research problem is more than a research question; it is a stated issue requiring solution or explanation. Bryman (2007) defines a research problem as “a clear, definite statement of the area of concern or investigation, backed by evidence.” A research problem occurs from a sense of gaps in literature, inconsistencies in theoretical models, or genuine problems in real life that cannot be solved well. The problem must be stated in a researchable form, i.e., it is solvable through empirical or theoretical ways within the researcher’s limitations of time and money.
Significance of Research Problem
There is no aspect of the research process that is as important as a well-stated research problem. It performs several key roles in the research process:
- Guides the Research Process: Problem definition allows the direction of research to be concentrated, keeping the research intact, and reaching definite goals.
- Determines Research Design: The problem controls the selection of research method, data collection techniques, and analysis processes.
- Justifies the Study: An efficient problem statement reflects the relevance of the study, showing its potential to contribute to the state of knowledge or to be practically useful.
- Facilitates Hypothesis Development: Problem identification allows testable hypotheses or research questions that define the inquiry to be developed.
- Improves Research Validity: A well-defined problem guarantees the research will address the supposed issue, and the validity and reliability of the finding are therefore encouraged.
Characteristics of a Good Research Problem
A research problem ought to possess the following characteristics:
- Clarity and Specificity : The problem must be described in clear terms, without ambiguity or generality.
- Feasibility : It should be able to be studied with the available resources, time, and expertise.
- Significance : The problem should constitute an important issue, and it should be building theoretical knowledge or practical solutions.
- Novelty :It should be filling a knowledge gap or developing an insight into a problem.
- Ethical Problems :The research must comply with ethical principles, and none of the participants or communities must be harmed.
Sources of Research Problems
There are different sources of research problems:
- Literature Reviews : Existing studies can be read to identify gaps, inconsistencies, or areas for further research.
- Practical Experiences : Issues facing practice can lead to research questions seeking solutions.
- Theoretical Frameworks : Reviewing what is already out there might uncover assumptions to be tested or refined.
- Policy Issues:Social problems or controversy among policymakers can develop research intended to inform decision-making.
- Technological Advances :New technologies emerging can bring new challenges or opportunities for research.
Steps in Defining a Research Problem
- Identify a General Area of Interest : Start with a broad topic that is close to your area of interest and field of study.
- Conduct Literature Review : Search for previous studies to discover gaps, inconsistencies, or unresolved areas.
- Narrow the Focus:Refine the broad subject area to a narrow problem or issue that can be investigated and handled.
- Evaluate the Significance of the Problem:Determine the significance and probable impact of resolving the problem.
- Establish the Problem Statement:Define the problem in such a way that it fulfils the principles of a good research problem.
Examples of Research Problems
- Public Health : Even with huge campaigns of vaccination, some communities remain with low rates of immunization and experience outbreaks of preventable diseases. Why are such populations resistant to vaccines?
- Education : There is extensive online education but no definable understanding of whether it is more or less efficient compared to education via schools. What impact does online education have on students' motivation and performance?
- Environmental Science:Urban air quality is rising in cities. What is the link between urban planning policies and urban air quality?
Conclusion
An articulate research problem is the bedrock of any successful research endeavour. It gives guidance, guarantees relevance, and supplies the vehicle for methodological precision. By taking up the challenge of defining and elucidating the research problem with precision, researchers are able to make valuable contributions in their areas of research, tackle critical social problems, and enhance the cumulative knowledge base on intricate phenomena.