Research Problem Identification and Justification
In every study, identifying the research problem is an essential task. A research problem refers to a definite statement highlighting the primary concern or issue under investigation and is often supported by evidence. It influences the research processes and questions while providing a framework for comprehending the study results. Thus, one should understand the various areas to identify a research problem and appropriate evaluation methods.
Data Sources
Real-life experiences and scholarly findings are the main sources of research problems. Real-life concepts involve factors like observations, ongoing challenges in specific fields, and curiosity. Addressing such issues can influence one to develop a research topic or problem. Alternatively, one can identify a research problem by reviewing databases, reports and literature in various fields. In such cases, the “recommendations” section often at the end of doctoral dissertations and journal articles provide potential research problems.
Research Evaluation
Once the researcher has identified the potential research problem, the next step is evaluating the issue to ensure it is appropriate for study. Sufficient literature support determines the appropriateness of a research problem. Also, it must be researchable, specific, novel, timely and significant. A researcher can apply qualitative, quantitative or mixed-method analysis techniques to evaluate the research findings. An appropriate research problem can succeed in the application, presentation and publication.
Importance
A research problem should produce findings with significant impact in the area of study. The effect can be conceptual where it addresses an existing knowledge gap with new information or practical wherein the conclusions can be applied directly in the field. In essence, the research must have a direct relationship with present needs and suited to address current issues. Notably, the research issue should be unique and original, addressing an application or a knowledge gap. A comprehensive literature review is essential in determining whether there other researchers who addressed the problem before.
Assumptions
Although assumptions are often of the researcher’s control, their absence invalidates the research. For instance, when selecting a study sample, the researcher must assume that this group represents the entire population. Notable it is not enough to merely state the assumption, the researcher must justify their truthfulness failure to which the study becomes irrelevant.
Limitations
Limitations weaken research and are often beyond the researcher’s control. They are present in every area of study. For instance, when one uses a sample of convenience instead of a random sample, then one cannot use the findings to a general population except for stud group. Notably, a research carried out over a specific time interval presents a snapshot dependent on prevailing conditions at that particular time. The researcher must explain how they intend to solve the limitations.
Delimitations
Delimitations define the study boundaries and limit the research’s scope and are often within the researcher’s control. They include the objectives, variables of interest, study population, and the theoretical perspectives the researcher adopts. The delimitations section illustrates the participant’s inclusion and exclusion criteria, the geographical area of study, and the organizations or professions involved. The selected stud variables and methodology also determine the boundaries of the findings.
Hypothesis
A hypothesis refers to a logical prediction of various occurrences without using empirical evidence or confirmation. In essence, it is a testable theory regarding a connection between several dependent and independent variables. A null hypothesis negates a relationship or difference between selected variables. On the other hand, an alternative hypothesis establishes a relationship or statistical importance between selected variables. A hypothesis enhances the validity and scientific nature of the research methodologies applied while establishing a connection between specific research questions and underlying theories.