MODULE II- DEFINING THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND RESEARCH

DESIGN

WHAT IS A RESEARCH PROBLEM,

A research problem is a specific issue, difficulty, contradiction, or gap in knowledge that you
will aim to address in your research. You might look for practical problems aimed at contributing
to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge.

Bear in mind that some research will do both of these things, but usually the research problem
focuses on one or the other. The type of research problem you choose depends on your
broad topic of interest and the type of research you want to do.

This article helps you identify and refine a research problem. When writing your research
proposal or introduction, you will have to formulate it as a problem statement and/or research
questions.

WHY IS THE RESEARCH PROBLEM IMPORTANT?

Your topic is interesting and you have lots to say about it, but this isn’t a strong enough basis for
academic research. Without a well-defined research problem, you are likely to end up with an
unfocused and unmanageable project.

You might end up repeating what other people have already said, trying to say too much, or
doing research without a clear purpose and justification. You need a problem in order to do
research that contributes new and relevant insights.

Whether you’re planning your thesis, starting a research paper or writing a research proposal, the
research problem is the first step towards knowing exactly what you’ll do and why.

SELECTION OF RESEARCH PROBLEM

There are some suggestion for the graduate students and researchers which are drawn from the
different areas of education, social sciences as well as psychology. There are two factors in the
selection of topic external and personal.
External criteria involves how the topic is important for the field, availability of both data and
data collection methods and the administration is cooperative or not. Personal Criteria means
researcher own interest, time and cost. Criteria for selection of research problem depends on the
following characteristics.
1 Personal Inclination. The chief motivation in the way of selecting research problem is the
personal inclination of the researcher. If a researcher has personal interest in the topic, he would
select that problem for his research work.
2 Resources Availability. During the selection, a researcher will see to the resources available.
If these resources like money, time, accommodation and transport are available to the selection
place, then the selection of the problem is easy.

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3 Relative Importance. The importance and the problem also play a vital role in the selection of
research problem. If the problem is relatively important, then the researcher tends towards the
selection of the problem.
4 Researcher Knowledge. The researcher knowledge should play a vital role in the selection of
the research problem. The wisdom and experience of an investigator is required for well
collection of the research data. He can bitterly select a problem.
5 Practicality: Practicality is also responsible for the selection. The practical usefulness of the
problem is the main motivation for a researcher to attend it.
6 Time-lines of the Problem-some problems take little time for its solution while others take
more time. So, it depends on the time in which we have to complete his research work.
7 Data Availability. If the desired data is available to the researcher, then the problem would be
selected.
8 Urgency. Urgency is a pinpoint in the way of the selection of research problem. Urgent
problem must be given priority because the immediate solution can benefit the people.
9 Feasibility. Feasibility is also an important factor for the selection of the research problem.
The researcher qualification, training and experience should match the problem.
10 Area Culture. The culture of the area for which a researcher conducts his research is also
responsible for the selection of research problem.

NECESSITY OF DEFINING A RESEARCH PROBLEM

One must always define a problem correctly. In fact, research problem formulation is much
more important than its prospective solution. A properly defined problem doesn’t let an
investigator wander from the research path which needs to be followed. Hence, it is, concluded
that only upon a detailed definition of the research problem, the researcher can progress with the
design of research methodology.
What is the Necessity of Defining a Research Problem?
The problem to be researched needs to be described unambiguously as that will help you to
discriminate useful data from the unrelated ones. A proper formulation of research
problem will allow the investigator to be on the track in contrast to an ill-defined problem may
possibly create difficulties.

Questions like: What data are to be gathered? What attributes of data are appropriate and need to
be analyzed? What relations should be investigated. What methods should be employed for the
purpose? as well as other questions turn up in the head of the investigator who can well plan his
strategy and find solutions to these kinds of questions only when the research problem has been
well defined. Therefore, defining the problem accurately is a necessity for any research and is a
step of the highest value.

In fact, formulation of a problem is often vital than its solution. It is only on thoroughly
describing the problem that we can work out the research design and can efficiently proceed all
the consequential steps needed while doing research.
Important Points to Keep in Mind while Defining the Research Problem
1. The correct question needs to be addressed if research is to help decision makers. A right
answer to the wrong question leads either to bad advice or to no advice.

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2. Usually in problem we have an inclination to rationalize and defend our actions once we
have started upon a specific research plan. The perfect time to examine and think about
alternative techniques is in the planning stage. If it is completed unnecessary expense of
false start and redoing work may be prevented.
3. An excellent beginning in problem definition is to ask what the decision maker want to
know if the requested information can be gathered without error and without expense.
4. Another excellent rule to follow is “Never settle on a specific strategy” without
developing and taking into consideration at least one alternate option”.
5. The problem definition stage of research is the determination and structuring of the
decision maker’s question. It should be the decision maker’s question and not the
researcher’s question.
6. What decision do you face? Unless you have decision to make, there isn’t any research
problem.
7. What are the alternatives? In case there are no options to choose, once again there is
absolutely no research problem.
8. What are the factors for selecting the best alternative? Unless you have criteria for
evaluation, again there’s no problem.
9. The researcher should stay away from the acceptance of the superficial and the obvious.

TECHNIQUES INVOLVED IN DEFINING THE RESEARCH PROBLEM? check

As a researcher, you must have often read that defining a problem is the first step in a
research process. But, have you ever wondered what is meant by 'defining a problem'.
Well, it simply means that the researcher has to lay down certain boundaries within
which he/she has to study the problem with a pre-defined objective in mind.

Defining a problem is a herculean task, and this must be done intelligently to avoid
confusions that arise in the research operation. Try to follow the below steps systematically
to best define a problem:
i. State the problem in a general way:
First state the problem in general terms with respect to some practical, scientific or
intellectual interest. For this, the researcher may himself read the concerned subject
matter thoroughly or take the help of the subject expert. Often, the guide states the
problem in general terms; it depends on the researcher if he/she wants to narrow it down
to operational terms. The problem stated should also be checked for ambiguity and
feasibility.

ii. Understand the nature of the problem:

The next step is to understand the nature and origin of the problem. The researcher needs
to discuss the problem with those related to the subject matter in order to clearly
understand the origin of the problem, its nature, objectives, and the environment in which
the problem is to be studied.

iii. Survey the available literature:

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 All available literature including relevant theories, reports, records, and other relevant
literature on the problem needs to be reviewed and examined. This would help the
researcher to identify the data available, the techniques that might be used, types of
difficulties that may be encountered during the study, possible analytical shortcomings,
and even new methods of approach to the present problem.

iv. Go for discussions for developing ideas:

The researcher may discuss the problem with his/her colleagues and others related to the
concerned subject. This helps the researcher to generate new ideas, identify different
aspects on the problem, gain suggestions and advices from others, and sharpen his focus
on certain aspects within the field. However, discussions should not be limited to the
problem only, but should also be related to the general approach to the problem,
techniques that might be used, possible solutions, etc.

v. Rephrase the research problem into a working proposition:

Finally, the researcher must rephrase the problem into a working proposition. Rephrasing
the problem means putting the problem in specific terms that is feasible and may help in
the development of working hypotheses. Once the researcher has gone through the above
steps systematically, it is easy to rephrase the problem into analytical and operational
terms.

WHAT ARE THE TECHNIQUES OF DEFINING A RESEARCH

PROBLEM IN RESEARCH METHODOLOGY?
The technique involved in defining research problem has following steps:
1 Statement of the problem in a general way: The research problem needs to deal with
either a particular practical operational issue or some scientific discovery. It may also be
related to satisfaction or widening of a certain intellectual curiosity. No matter what the
subject of research, the problem definition should in general be at a logical level. For
this reason, the investigator should involve himself thoroughly in the topic relating to
which he wants to pose a problem. In the case of social research, it is considered a good
idea to do some field observation and as such the investigator may take on some type of
preliminary survey or what is known as pilot survey. The problem mentioned in a broad
general way could have numerous ambiguities that need to be fixed by cool thinking
and rethinking about the issue. While doing so the feasibility of a specific alternative
must be considered and the same should be kept in view while stating the problem.
2 Understand the nature of the problem: The next step in defining the problem is that the
investigator should be aware of the cause and character of the problem in clear terms via
discussions and study of the environment within which problem is to be solved.
3 Literature Survey: All accessible literature in connection with the issue at hand must
necessarily be surveyed and examined before a definition of the research problem is
provided. It helps a professional to take a look at current dimensions in that specific area
and results in enhancement of knowledge. The researcher will have to dedicate adequate
time in examining of research previously carried out on relevant problems. It is performed
to discover what data and other materials, if any, are readily available for operational
purposes. Being aware of what data can be obtained often acts to narrow the problem itself
in addition to the technique that may be employed.

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 4 Experiential Advice: Discussion related to a difficulty usually produces valuable
information. People who have understanding or have rich experience in the area of
research have turned out to be excellent sounding board for an investigator. Their
suggestions and comment on research proposal help a researcher to get greater clarity
and focus on his research topic. Chats with such people should not just be limited to the
formulation of the particular problem at hand, but should also be related to the overall
approach to the specific issue, techniques that could be used, feasible solutions, etc.
5 Rephrase the research problem: Quite often, a problem redefinition takes place when the
steps mentioned above are carried out. Researcher often redefines the problem in a fashion
that is more practical and logical for the conduct of the research in hand. This effort will
also help with defining hypothesis.

RESEARCH DESIGN DEFINITION

Research design is the framework of research methods and techniques chosen by a researcher.
The design allows researchers to hone in on research methods that are suitable for the subject
matter and set up their studies up for success.

The design of a research topic explains the type of research (experimental, survey, correlational,
semi-experimental, review) and also its sub-type (experimental design, research problem,
descriptive case-study).

There are three main types of designs for research: Data collection, measurement, and analysis.

The type of research problem an organization is facing will determine the research design and
not vice-versa. The design phase of a study determines which tools to use and how they are used.

An impactful research usually creates a minimum bias in data and increases trust in the accuracy
of collected data. A design that produces the least margin of error in experimental research is
generally considered the desired outcome. The essential elements are:

1. Accurate purpose statement

2. Techniques to be implemented for collecting and analyzing research
3. The method applied for analyzing collected details
4. Type of research methodology
5. Probable objections for research
6. Settings for the research study
7. Timeline
8. Measurement of analysis
Proper research design sets your study up for success. Successful research studies provide
insights that are accurate and unbiased. You’ll need to create a survey that meets all of the main
characteristics of a design. There are four key characteristics:

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 NEED FOR RESEARCH DESIGN

Research design is needed because it facilitates the smooth sailing of the various research
operations, thereby making research as efficient as possible yielding maximal information with
minimal expenditure of effort, time and money. Research design has a significant impact on the
reliability of the results obtained. It thus acts as a firm foundation for the entire research.

For example, economical and attractive construction of house we need a blueprint (or what is
commonly called the map of the house) well thought out and prepared by an expert architect,
similarly we need a research design or a plan in advance of data collection and analysis for our
research project.Research design stands for advance planning of the methods to be adopted for
collecting the relevant data and the techniques to be used in their analysis.

The need for research design is as follows:

 It reduces inaccuracy;
 Helps to get maximum efficiency and reliability;
 Eliminates bias and marginal errors;
 Minimizes wastage of time;
 Helpful for collecting research materials;
 Helpful for testing of hypothesis;
 Gives an idea regarding the type of resources required in terms of money, manpower, time, and
efforts;
 Provides an overview to other experts;
 Guides the research in the right direction.
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FEATURES OF GOOD DESIGN

 Good design is innovative. The possibilities for innovation are not, by any means, exhausted.
Technological development is always offering new opportunities for innovative design. But
innovative design always develops in tandem with innovative technology, and can never be an
end in itself.
 Good design makes a product useful. A product is bought to be used. It has to satisfy certain
criteria, not only functional, but also psychological and aesthetic. Good design emphasizes
the usefulness of a product whilst disregarding anything that could possibly detract from it.
 Good design is aesthetic. The aesthetic quality of a product is integral to its usefulness because
products we use every day affect our person and our well-being. But only well-executed objects
can be beautiful.
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 Good design makes a product understandable. It clarifies the product’s structure. Better still, it
can make the product talk. At best, it is self-explanatory.
 Good design is unobtrusive. Products fulfilling a purpose are like tools. They are neither
decorative objects nor works of art. Their design should therefore be both neutral and restrained,
to leave room for the user’s self-expression.
 Good design is honest. It does not make a product more innovative, powerful or valuable than it
really is. It does not attempt to manipulate the consumer with promises that cannot be kept.
 Good design is long-lasting. It avoids being fashionable and therefore never appears antiquated.
Unlike fashionable design, it lasts many years – even in today’s throwaway society.
 Good design is thorough down to the last detail. Nothing must be arbitrary or left to chance. Care
and accuracy in the design process show respect towards the user.
 Good design is environmental-friendly. Design makes an important contribution to the
preservation of the environment. It conserves resources and minimizes physical and visual
pollution throughout the lifecycle of the product.
 Good design is as little design as possible. Less, but better – because it concentrates on the
essential aspects, and the products are not burdened with non-essentials. Back to purity,
back to simplicity.

TYPES OF RESEARCH DESIGN INTO FIVE CATEGORIES:

1. Descriptive research design: In a descriptive design, a researcher is solely
interested in describing the situation or case under their research study. It is a
theory-based design method which is created by gathering, analyzing, and
presenting collected data. This allows a researcher to provide insights into the why
and how of research. Descriptive design helps others better understand the need for
the research. If the problem statement is not clear, you can conduct exploratory
research.

 2. Experimental research design: Experimental research establishes a relationship

between the cause and effect of a situation. It is a causal design where one observes
the impact caused by the independent variable on the dependent variable. For
example, one monitors the influence of an independent variable such as a price on a
dependent variable such as customer satisfaction or brand loyalty. It is a highly
practical research method as it contributes to solving a problem at hand. The
independent variables are manipulated to monitor the change it has on the
dependent variable. It is often used in social sciences to observe human behavior by
analyzing two groups. Researchers can have participants change their actions and
study how the people around them react to gain a better understanding of social
psychology.

 3. Correlational research design: Correlational research is a non-experimental

research technique that helps researchers establish a relationship between two
closely connected variables. This type of research requires two different groups.
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 There is no assumption while evaluating a relationship between two different
variables, and statistical analysis techniques calculate the relationship between them.

 A correlation coefficient determines the correlation between two variables, whose

value ranges between -1 and +1. If the correlation coefficient is towards +1, it
indicates a positive relationship between the variables and -1 means a negative
relationship between the two variables.

 4. Diagnostic research design: In diagnostic design, the researcher is looking to

evaluate the underlying cause of a specific topic or phenomenon. This method helps
one learn more about the factors that create troublesome situations.

 This design has three parts of the research:

 · Inception of the issue

 · Diagnosis of the issue

 · Solution for the issue

 5. Explanatory research design: Explanatory design uses a researcher’s ideas and

thoughts on a subject to further explore their theories. The research explains unexplored
aspects of a subject and details about what, how, and why of research questions.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF EXPERIMENTAL DESIGNS

The basic principles of experimental designs are randomization, replication and local control.
These principles make a valid test of significance possible. Each of them is described briefly in
the following subsections.

(1) Randomization. The first principle of an experimental design is randomization, which is a

random process of assigning treatments to the experimental units. The random process implies
that every possible allotment of treatments has the same probability. An experimental unit is the
smallest division of the experimental material, and a treatment means an experimental condition
whose effect is to be measured and compared. The purpose of randomization is to remove bias
and other sources of extraneous variation which are not controllable. Another advantage of
randomization (accompanied by replication) is that it forms the basis of any valid statistical test.
Hence, the treatments must be assigned at random to the experimental units. Randomization is
usually done by drawing numbered cards from a well-shuffled pack of cards, by drawing
numbered balls from a well-shaken container or by using tables of random numbers.
(2) Replication. The second principle of an experimental design is replication, which is a
repetition of the basic experiment. In other words, it is a complete run for all the treatments to be
tested in the experiment. In all experiments, some kind of variation is introduced because of the
fact that the experimental units such as individuals or plots of land in agricultural experiments
cannot be physically identical. This type of variation can be removed by using a number of

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experimental units. We therefore perform the experiment more than once, i.e., we repeat the
basic experiment. An individual repetition is called a replicate. The number, the shape and the
size of replicates depend upon the nature of the experimental material. A replication is used to:
(i) Secure a more accurate estimate of the experimental error, a term which represents the
differences that would be observed if the same treatments were applied several times to the same
experimental units;

(ii) Decrease the experimental error and thereby increase precision, which is a measure of the
variability of the experimental error; and

(iii) Obtain a more precise estimate of the mean effect of a treatment,

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(3) Local Control. It has been observed that all extraneous sources of variation are not removed
by randomization and replication. This necessitates a refinement of the experimental technique.
In other words, we need to choose a design in such a manner that all extraneous sources of
variation are brought under control. For this purpose, we make use of local control, a term
referring to the amount of balancing, blocking and grouping of the experimental units. Balancing
means that the treatments should he assigned to the experimental units in such a way that the
result is a balanced arrangement of the treatments. Blocking means that like experimental units
should be collected together to form a relatively homogeneous group. A block is also a replicate.
The main purpose of the principle of local control is to increase the efficiency of an experimental
design by decreasing the experimental error. The point to remember here is that the term local
control should not be confused with the word control. The word control in experimental design is
used for a treatment which does not receive any treatment when we need to find out the
effectiveness of other treatments through comparison.