Research
Problem
This is a gap in an existing knowledge, a
contradiction in an established theory, or a
Research Problem
real-world challenge that a researcher
aims to address in their research. It is at
the heart of any scientific inquiry, directing
the trajectory of an investigation as serve
as the foundation for research.
This guides the selection of approaches
and methodologies, data collection, and
interpretation of results to find answers
and solutions. A well
defined problem determines the
Research
Question
A research question is a statement made in a question form
to provide focus, clarity, and structure to the research
endeavor.
The formulation of well-defined research questions is central
to addressing a research problem.
This helps the researcher’s design, methodologies, collect
data, and analyze results in a systematic and coherent
manner. A study may have one or more research questions
depending on the nature of the study.
Characteristics of Research
Problem
Novel
Significant
Feasible
Clear and Specific
Rotted in Evidence
Novel –Key
The ideal research problem introduces a
fresh perspective, offering something new to the
Characteristics
existing body of knowledge.
Significant – The problem should hold significance in
terms of its potential impact on theory, practice,
policy, or the understanding of a particular
phenomenon.
Feasible – The practical research problem allows for
the formulation of hypotheses and the design of
research methodologies. A feasible research
problem is one that can realistically be investigated
given the available resources, time, and expertise.
Key
Characteristics
Clear and Specific – A well-defined research problem is clear and
specific, leaving no room for ambiguity, it should be easily
understandable and precisely articulated.
Rooted in Evidence – A good research problem leans on trustworthy
evidence and data, while dismissing unverifiable information.
Types of
Research
Theoretical Research
Problems
Problems
Applied / Practical
Research Problems
Action Research Problems
Theoretical
Research
This
Problems
type of research problem deals with conceptual and intellectual inquiries
that may not involve empirical data collection but instead seek to advance our
understanding of complex concepts, theories, and phenomena within their
respective disciplines.
For instance, in the social sciences, research problems may be casuist (relating
to the determination of right and wrong in questions of conduct or
conscience), difference (comparing or contrasting two or more
phenomena), descriptive (aims to describe a situation or state),
or relational (investigating characteristics that are related in some way).
Eg. “Ethical frameworks that can provide coherent justifications for artificial
intelligence and machine learning algorithms, especially in contexts involving
autonomous decision-making and moral agency”
Applied / Practical
Research Problems
This research problem focuses on addressing real-world
challenges and generating practical solutions to improve
various aspects of society, technology, health, and the
environment.
Eg. “Designing a more energy-efficient and sustainable
transportation system for a city to reduce carbon emissions”
Action Research
Problems
This aims to create positive change within specific contexts
by involving stakeholders, implementing interventions, and
evaluating outcomes in a collaborative manner.
Eg. “Collaborating with a nonprofit organization to evaluate
the effectiveness of their programs aimed at providing job
training for underserved populations”
How to Define a
Research Problem
[Link] for a broad problem area
[Link] more about the problem:
[Link] the relevant variables and how
they are related
[Link] of practical aspects
[Link] the problem statement
[Link] to plans, but be flexible
Reference:
Singh, S (2023). What is a Research Problem? Characteristics,
Types, and Examples. ttps://[Link]/blog/article/what
is-a-research-problem-types-and- examples/.
RESEARCH
DESIGN
Research
Design
This is the process of planning and executing a
study to answer specific questions.
This process allows us to test hypotheses in the
business, scientific, and other fields.
Types of Research
Design
[Link]
Design
[Link]
Design
[Link] Design
[Link] Design
Experimental
Design
This is used when the researcher wants to examine how variables
interact with each other.
The researcher manipulates one variable (the independent variable)
and observes the effect on another variable (the dependent variable).
This design wants to test a causal relationship between two or more
variables.
Correlational Design
This design examines the relationship between two or
more variables without intervening in the process.
It also allows the analyst to observe natural relationships
between variables. Thus, the data results are more
reflective of real-world situations.
Descriptive Design
This refers to a systematic process of observing and
describing what a subject does without influencing
them.
It aims to gather an in-depth understanding of a
phenomenon and answers when/what/where.
Diagnostic Design
Diagnostic design determines the root cause of a
problem and finds the most effective solution.
This is often used in marketing to identify areas of
improvement or potential opportunities for growth.
Three Steps of Diagnostic Design
I. Inception - which includes data collection and
problem definition.
II. Diagnostics - which comprises data analysis,
hypothesis testing, and setting objectives.
[Link] - which define the best possible
solutions.
Reference:
Romanchuk, J (2024). The Four Types of Research Design –
Everything You Need to Know.
[Link]
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