The Research Problem
The main problem or question is the anchor of the research. It clarifies the goals of the research project and keeps the researcher off of wandering.
- Area of concern
- Condition to be improved
- Questioning theories
A Good Research Problem is…
- Specific in terms of subject, scope, and goals
- Researchable
- Achievable, manageable, carefully limited
Let’s Identify the Variables!
- Identify the different variables within the problem
- Dependent variable: factor that is measured in effect
- Independent variable: factor that can be manipulated
Let’s Break It Down! Make Sure Each Question:
- Is researchable
- Is measurable
- Can be interpreted adds up to the totality of the problem
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