RM3 - problem statement

Research Methodology

Statement of the Research Problem

  • What Should Be Happening: Ideal situation regarding research problems.

  • The Problem Statement: A clear definition of the issue being researched.

  • What Is Actually Happening: The current situation in contrast to what is expected.

  • Presented by: Dr. Rasha A. Salama, Professor/ Chairperson Community Medicine department-RAKCOMS.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to:

    • Define a research problem.

    • Identify key components of a problem statement.

    • Recognize criteria for selecting a research problem.

    • Analyze the problem and influencing factors.

    • Apply principles of problem statement development to real-world scenarios.

Steps in Research Methodology

STEP I: Proper Data Collection

  • Components:

    • Study design.

    • Sample type.

    • Sample size.

    • Sources of data.

    • Tools for data collection.

STEP II: Proper Data Presentation

  • Methods:

    • Tables: Captures detailed data.

    • Graphs: Provides impressions rather than details.

    • Parameters: Offers precise mathematical summaries useful for comparisons.

STEP III: Statistical Data Analysis

  • Comparisons: Utilizes tests of significance.

  • Associations: Employs correlation and regression tools.

Phases of the Research Process

  1. Thinking:

    • Topic selection, problem identification, and literature review.

  2. Planning:

    • Choosing study design and approach to sampling and data collection.

  3. Implementing:

    • Recruiting participants and collecting data.

  4. Analyzing:

    • Analyze data and interpret findings.

  5. Informing:

    • Disseminating results through journal articles and presentations.

Problem Statement Metaphors

  • Described as:

    • The DNA of the research.

    • A snapshot of the research.

    • The heart of the research.

    • A "taste" of the research.

Definition of a Problem Statement

  • Description: Concisely identifies an issue needing attention, showing the gap between:

    • Current state (what exists).

    • Desired state (what should be).

  • Purpose: Sets the foundation for research by outlining the challenge, significance, and need for action.

Importance of Problem Definition

  • The problem statement is crucial as it:

    • Introduces the topic's importance.

    • Leads to formulating research questions and hypotheses.

    • Defines the parameters and factors for investigation.

    • Provides a framework for reporting results.

Relationship Between Research Problem and Quality of Content

  • Input: Formulation of research problem.

  • Output: Quality of content produced from research.

Considerations for Crafting Research Problems

  1. Spend considerable time formulating a clear and concise statement of the problem.

  2. Engage in writing and rewriting until clarity is reached.

Steps in Writing a Problem Statement

  1. Problem identification.

  2. Definition of the problem.

  3. Importance of problem (rational).

  4. Problem analysis.

Identifying a Research Problem

  • Description: A specific issue needing resolution, including:

    • Unresolved questions in literature.

    • Observed rising trends.

    • A need not being met or a knowledge gap to be addressed.

Steps in Identifying a Research Problem

  1. Start broad and gradually narrow down.

  2. Identify the purpose for the study.

  3. Formulate a specific research question.

  4. Engage in environmental observation, be curious, and ask questions.

Look for Gaps or Contradictions

  • Identify gaps in knowledge, conflicting previous research findings, or practical problem needs.

Factors to Consider in Selecting a Research Problem

  • Support: Prior research and existing literature provide context and justification.

  • Researchability: Should build upon and contribute to existing knowledge.

Criteria for a Researchable Problem

  • Avoid problems leading to "yes/no" answers.

  • Avoid opinion-based questions lacking objective evidence.

Significance of the Research Problem

  • Relevance: Should contribute to knowledge and practice.

  • Impact: Should fill a gap in knowledge or inform medical practice.

Nature of Research Problems

  1. Replicate existing studies with different populations.

  2. Extend studies by exploring new aspects or methodologies.

  3. Synthesize findings from multiple studies to provide comprehensive insights.

Ethical Considerations

  • Informed consent and confidentiality are paramount.

  • Minimize harm to participants.

Feasibility of Research

  • Consider resource availability, time constraints, and access to data/participants.

Personal Interest in Research Problem

  • Personal motivation is essential for sustaining engagement and maintaining quality work.

Research Problem vs. Research Topic

  • Distinction: A research topic is a broad subject of inquiry; a research problem is specific and needs investigation.

Problem Definition

  • Describes the nature of the problem:

    • Understanding magnitude, distribution, time, and place.

Problem Importance & Rational

  • Necessity: Justifying the urgency and significance of solving the problem by exploring potential benefits and negative consequences.

Analyzing the Problem

  • Reasons for Analysis:

    • Clarify the problem’s scope and factors.

    • Determine focus and objectives of the research.

Steps in Analyzing a Problem

  1. Clarify viewpoints of all participants.

  2. Specify the core problem and its factors.

  3. Categorize contributing factors.

Writing the Statement of the Problem

  • Include a concise description of the nature of the problem and justification for the proposed research.

  • Close with a Question: Formulate a research problem as a multi-variable question.

Research Example

  • Research Topic: Utilization of Medical Library in RAKMHSU, UAE.

  • Research Problem: Underutilization of library by medical students.

  • Research Question: Relationship between GPA and library use.

Quiz Insights

  1. Identify the next steps after forming an idea.

  2. Understand key characteristics of a well-defined research problem.

  3. Structure problem statements effectively based on gaps in existing knowledge.

Closing Thoughts

  • Research is a systematic process of data collection and analysis aimed at solving problems, contributing new knowledge, or answering critical questions.