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Research Problem Presentation

A research problem is a statement of a knowledge gap or challenge that guides the research process, influencing methodology and data collection. Key characteristics include being novel, significant, feasible, clear, and rooted in evidence. Research problems can be categorized into theoretical, applied, and action research, each serving different purposes and requiring specific approaches for definition and investigation.

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Eman Khurram
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14 views14 pages

Research Problem Presentation

A research problem is a statement of a knowledge gap or challenge that guides the research process, influencing methodology and data collection. Key characteristics include being novel, significant, feasible, clear, and rooted in evidence. Research problems can be categorized into theoretical, applied, and action research, each serving different purposes and requiring specific approaches for definition and investigation.

Uploaded by

Eman Khurram
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Research Problem

By
Ahmed Bilal Khalid
What is a Research Problem?
• Before you conceive of your project, you need to ask yourself “What is a research
problem?” A research problem definition can be broadly put forward as the
primary statement of a knowledge gap or a fundamental challenge in a field,
which forms the foundation for research. Conversely, the findings from a research
investigation provide solutions to the problem.
• A research problem guides the selection of approaches and methodologies, data
collection, and interpretation of results to find answers or solutions. A well-
defined problem determines the generation of valuable insights and contributions
to the broader intellectual discourse.
Characteristics of a Research
Problem
• Knowing the characteristics of a research problem is instrumental in formulating a research
inquiry; take a look at the five key characteristics below:
• Novel: An ideal research problem introduces a fresh perspective, offering something new to the
existing body of knowledge. It should contribute original insights and address unresolved matters
or essential knowledge.
• Significant: A problem should hold significance in terms of its potential impact on theory,
practice, policy, or the understanding of a particular phenomenon. It should be relevant to the field
of study, addressing a gap in knowledge, a practical concern, or a theoretical dilemma that holds
significance.
• Feasible: A 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.
It should not be too broad or too narrow to explore effectively, and should be
measurable in terms of its variables and outcomes. It should be amenable to
investigation through empirical research methods, such as data collection and
analysis, to arrive at meaningful conclusions A practical research
problem considers budgetary and time constraints, as well as limitations of
the problem. These limitations may arise due to constraints in methodology,
resources, or the complexity of the problem.
• 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. Ensuring specificity in
the problem ensures that it is focused, addresses a distinct aspect of
the broader topic and is not vague.
• Rooted in evidence: A good research problem leans on trustworthy
evidence and data, while dismissing unverifiable information. It must
also consider ethical guidelines, ensuring the well-being and rights of
any individuals or groups involved in the study.
Types of Research Problems

• We can broadly categorize them into three types.


• Theoretical research problems
• Theoretical research problems deal 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 example, 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).
• Examples of Theoretical Research:
• Here are some theoretical research problem examples:
• Ethical frameworks that can provide coherent justifications for artificial
intelligence and machine learning algorithms, especially in contexts involving
autonomous decision-making and moral agency.
• Determining how mathematical models can elucidate the gradual development of
complex traits, such as intricate anatomical structures or elaborate behaviors,
through successive generations.
• Applied research problems
• Applied or practical research problems focus on addressing real-world challenges
and generating practical solutions to improve various aspects of society,
technology, health, and the environment.
• Here are some applied research problem examples:
• Studying the use of precision agriculture techniques to optimize crop yield and
minimize resource waste.
• Designing a more energy-efficient and sustainable transportation system for a city
to reduce carbon emissions.
• Action research problems
• Action research problems aim to create positive change within specific contexts
by involving stakeholders, implementing interventions, and evaluating outcomes
in a collaborative manner.
• Here are some action research problem examples:
• Partnering with healthcare professionals to identify barriers to patient
adherence to medication regimens and devising interventions to address them.
• Collaborating with a nonprofit organization to evaluate the effectiveness of their
programs aimed at providing job training for underserved populations.
• These different types of research problems may give you some ideas when you
plan on developing your own.
How to Define a Research Problem

You might now ask “How to define a research problem?” These are the general steps to
follow:
• Look for a broad problem area: Identify under-explored aspects or areas of concern, or a
controversy in your topic of interest. Evaluate the significance of addressing the problem in
terms of its potential contribution to the field, practical applications, or theoretical insights.
• Learn more about the problem: Read the literature, starting from historical aspects to the
current status and latest updates. Rely on reputable evidence and data. Be sure to consult
researchers who work in the relevant field, mentors, and peers. Do not ignore the gray
literature on the subject.
• Identify the relevant variables and how they are related: Consider which variables are
most important to the study and will help answer the research question. Once this is done,
you will need to determine the relationships between these variables and how these
relationships affect the research problem.
• Think of practical aspects: Deliberate on ways that your study can be practical
and feasible in terms of time and resources. Discuss practical aspects with
researchers in the field and be open to revising the problem based on feedback.
Refine the scope of the research problem to make it manageable and specific;
consider the resources available, time constraints, and feasibility.
• Formulate the problem statement: Craft a concise problem statement that
outlines the specific issue, its relevance, and why it needs further investigation.
• Stick to plans, but be flexible: When defining the problem, plan ahead but
adhere to your budget and timeline. At the same time, consider all possibilities
and ensure that the problem and question can be modified if needed.
Criteria for Selecting a Research
Problem:
• The problem must be researchable.
• The problem must have some significance.
• The problem should indicate the type of research.
• The problem must specify the type of population.
• The problem should specify the variables.
• The problem should be clear.

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