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