PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
What is a Problem?
It can be anything that a person finds unsatisfactory or
unsettling, a difficulty of some sort, a state of affairs that needs to be changed, anything that is not working as well as it might. (Fraenkel & Wallen, 1993)
Grow out of things that trouble people in their own
lives. (Therese Baker, 1996)
A perceived difficulty, a feeling of discomfort with the
way things are, or a discrepancy betweenwhat should be and what it is. (Fisher, [Link]., 1983)
Social Dimension of a Problem (Wrigth Mills)
Organization
Education MAN
Economics
Family
Politics
Research Problems are not formulated in a vacuum (Christine A. Hult, 1996)
Sources of Problem
1. 2.
3.
4. 5.
Experience Problems in the Work Environment Technological and Scientific Advancement Offshoots of other Researches Suggestions from Experts or Administrators
When are Problems Researchable?
There is no known answer or solution to it such that a
gap of knowledge exists There are possible solutions the effectivity of which is untested or still unknown yet There are answers or solutions the possible result of which may seem or may be factually contradictory There are several possible and plausible explanations for the undesirable conditions When the existence of a phenomenon requires explanation
Factors Affecting Problem Identification
(John Adams, [Link]., 2007)
Interest And Curiosity in the subject
The Level of Prior Knowledge
Suitability for the level of your Degree
Availability of Expertise
The Ease of data access and data availability
The Time required for completion
Future Plans
Selecting the Research Topic
(John Adams, 2007)
AREA
EDUCATION
MATHEMATICS
FIELD
ASPECT
TEACHING STRATEGIES
Justifying the Research Problem
The Problem is current and timely.
The Problem is pervasive and widespread. If affects a special group of people.
It relate to ongoing programs such as Con-Con.
It relates to broad social, economic and health issues. It has a direct or indirect, short- and long range
contribution to society
Characteristics of a Research Problem
(SMART)
Specific
Time frame is observed Problem specifically stated
TimeBounded
Measurable
Research Problem
Easy to measure using instruments
Data gathered scientifically, not manipulated
Realistic
Achievable
Data achievable using Correct statistical tool
Criteria of a Good Research Problem ([Link])
Interesting
Measurable using instruments Completed within time-frame
Attracts the attention of the Researcher and other people
Measurable & Time Bounded
Attracts the attention of the Researcher and other people
Relevant
Research Problem
It solves the need and problem of the people Relevant to Governments Thrust
Cost-Effective
Innovative
Problem is novel, original And unique
Characteristics of a Good Research Question
(Fraenkel and Wallen)
Dont involve physical or psychological harm to human Beings, natural or social env.
Feasible
Can be investigated without Undue amount of time, energy or money
Ethical
Clear
People agree as to what the key words in the question mean
Problem is worth investigating
Significant
Measures Relationship between Variables
Concluding Line: Do not worry to much about whether your topic is the best one to study. You may feel that there are too many interesting topics, or more that interest you enough. The best solution is to take one and dig in. You will likely find that it becomes more interesting as you get into it, or you will decide quickly that it is the wrong one. The most important thing is to get started. (McBurney & White)
References: Adams, J. et. al. 2007. Research Methods for Graduate Business and Social Science Students. Sage Publications Inc. Adanza, E.G. 1995. Research Methods: Principles & Application. Rex Book Store. Ardales, V.B. 1992. Basic Concepts & Methods in Research. Great Books Trading. Bailey, K.D. 1994. Methods of Social Research, 4th. ed. Maxwell Macmillan Canada, Inc. Calmorin, L.P., et. Al. 2007. Research Methods & Thesis Writing. Rex Book Store. Fraenkel, J.R., et. al.. 1993. How to Design and Evaluate Research in Education, 2nd ed. McGraw-Hill Inc. Hult, C.A. 1996. Researching & Writing in the Social Sciences. Allyn and Bacon. White, T.L., et. al. 2004. Research Methods. Wadsworth.
