Lesson 2: Identifying the Inquiry and Stating the Problem

This set of flashcards covers vocabulary and key concepts for identifying research inquiries, choosing topics, and stating research problems as presented in Lesson 2.

Research Topic

A general area of interest that a researcher would like to pursue in their research, which should be both interesting and useful.

Relevance

A key factor in choosing a research topic where the study relates to the needs of the target audience or is considered important in people's daily lives.

Interest

A factor in topic selection where the research appeals to both the researcher and the readers and aligns with personal interests such as arts, science, or business.

Manageability

The requirement that a research topic be realistic, doable, and within the researcher's skills, capabilities, and time frame.

Availability of Source

Ensuring there are enough references and materials available to support the research study.

Ability of Researcher

A check to determine if the researcher has sufficient financial resources to conduct the research.

Background of the Study

A section that establishes the general context of the research by introducing the historical background, subjects involved, and the current situation.

Research Gap

An unaddressed issue or unexplored area in previous studies that justifies the need for a new study in the academic field.

5 Components of a Strong Background of the Study

Current state of the field, research problem, current and conventional practices, research gap, and contribution of the present study.

Research Problem

A specific issue or concern addressed by a study, including the variables involved and the relationships between them.

Concept Map

A visual tool used to identify research problems by starting with a general topic in the center and branching out into related ideas and clusters.

Problem Statement

A formal identification of the problem being investigated that answers why the specific problem is worthy of research.

Research Questions

Questions that help define and narrow the research problem and guide data collection and reference searches.

General Research Questions

Questions derived from the main problem that often utilize terms such as "effects" or "relationship."

Specific Research Questions

Questions anchored on the general question that must include significant variables.

Research Objectives

Declarative statements used instead of question forms for studies focused on models, designs, prototypes, or instructional materials.

Descriptive Research

A research design where the focus is to observe and report measurable aspects, such as frequency or proportions.

Correlational Research

A research design focused on finding relationships or associations among variables without establishing causation.

Experimental and Quasi-experimental Research

Research designs focused on examining causal relationships through the manipulation of variables.

Ex Post Facto Research

A research design focused on identifying causes that existed prior to the study without the manipulation of variables.