The Scientific Problem and Hypothesis

Research Problem

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 (McCombes, 2020).

It might seem easy to formulate a problem, but it requires considerable knowledge of both the topic (focus of the study) and research methodology (Kumar 2011). As researcher it is your task to formulate a well-define research questions that is align to your research topic and can be answer through focused research and careful decision-making. Understanding what a research problem is important because this will serve as your guide in formulating a good hypothesis.

SMART

According to McCombes 2020, a good research question is essential to guide your research paper, project, or thesis. It pinpoints exactly what you want to find out and gives your work a clear focus and purpose. All research questions should be __________.

Specific

Focused on a single problem or issue.

Measurable

Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis. An instrument to be used in data-gathering should answer the research questions.

Attainable

Specific enough to answer thoroughly.

Reliable

Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources.

Time-Bound

Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints.

Basic Research

A research approach that is entirely theoretical and aimed at improving or expanding the knowledge base on a particular field of study. It focused on acquiring knowledge for “knowledge sake.” The main objective is to expand one’s knowledge rather than creating or inventing something.

Applied Research

Designed to focus on providing practical solutions to a specific problem. It is a form of investigation that entails solution-oriented inquiries into a phenomenon, a field of study or research subject generally employing empirical methodologies. Solve practical problems of the modern world, rather than to acquire knowledge for knowledge's sake.

Hypotheses

State a prediction on what will the result of your study. It clearly defines what will be tested or investigated next. It is not just a guess but should be based on existing theories and knowledge so when the researcher has a strong ______, he has a prior knowledge on a current problem. __________ proposes a relationship between an independent variable and dependent variable.

Simple Hypothesis

Prediction on the relationship between two variables. Example: Lower the use of fertilizer, lower would-be agricultural productivity

Complex Hypothesis

Prediction on the relationship between two or more variables. Example: Lower the use of fertilizer, improved seeds and modern equipment, lower would-be agricultural productivity.

Alternative Hypothesis

There is a relationship between a dependent and independent variable.

Null Hypothesis

There is no relationship between an independent and dependent variable.