In the dynamic realm of academia, research problems serve as crucial stepping stones for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements. Research problems lay the groundwork for inquiry and exploration that happens when conducting research. They direct the path toward knowledge expansion.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different ways you can identify and formulate a research problem. We will also highlight how you can write a research problem, its significance in guiding your research journey, and how it contributes to knowledge advancement.
A research problem is defined as the focal point of any academic inquiry. It is a concise and well-defined statement that outlines the specific issue or question that the research aims to address. This research problem usually sets the tone for the entire study and provides you, the researcher, with a clear purpose and a clear direction on how to go about conducting your research.
There are two ways you can consider what the purpose of your research problem is. The first way is that the research problem helps you define the scope of your study and break down what you should focus on in the research. The essence of this is to ensure that you embark on a relevant study and also easily manage it.
The second way is that having a research problem helps you develop a step-by-step guide in your research exploration and execution. It directs your efforts and determines the type of data you need to collect and analyze. Furthermore, a well-developed research problem is really important because it contributes to the credibility and validity of your study.
It also demonstrates the significance of your research and its potential to contribute new knowledge to the existing body of literature in the world. A compelling research problem not only captivates the attention of your peers but also lays the foundation for impactful and meaningful research outcomes.
To identify a research problem, you need a systematic approach and a deep understanding of the subject area. Below are some steps to guide you in this process:
Once you have identified the general area of interest and specific research objectives, you can then formulate your research problem. Things to consider when formulating a research problem:
Steps to consider in writing a Research Problem:
Related: How to Write a Problem Statement for your Research
Research Problem: The research problem is a broad statement that outlines the overarching issue or gap in knowledge that your research aims to address. It provides the context and motivation for your study and helps establish its significance and relevance. The research problem is typically stated in the introduction section of your research proposal or thesis.
Research Questions: Research questions are specific inquiries that you seek to answer through your research. These questions are derived from the research problem and help guide the focus of your study. They are often more detailed and narrow in scope compared to the research problem. Research questions are usually listed in the methodology section of your research proposal or thesis.
Research Problem: A research problem is a specific issue, gap, or question that requires investigation and can be addressed through research. It is a clearly defined and focused problem that the researcher aims to solve or explore. The research problem provides the context and rationale for the study and guides the research process. It is usually stated as a question or a statement in the introduction section of a research proposal or thesis.
Example of a Research Problem: “ What are the factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions in the online retail industry ?”
Research Topic: A research topic, on the other hand, is a broader subject or area of interest within a particular field of study. It is a general idea or subject that the researcher wants to explore in their research. The research topic is more general and does not yet specify a specific problem or question to be addressed. It serves as the starting point for the research, and the researcher further refines it to formulate a specific research problem.
Example of a Research Topic: “ Consumer behavior in the online retail industry.”
In summary, a research topic is a general area of interest, while a research problem is a specific issue or question within that area that the researcher aims to investigate.
Research Problem: As explained earlier, a research problem is a specific issue, gap, or question that you as a researcher aim to address through your research. It is a clear and concise statement that defines the focus of the study and provides a rationale for why it is worth investigating.
Example of a Research Problem: “What is the impact of social media usage on the mental health and well-being of adolescents?”
Problem Statement: The problem statement, on the other hand, is a brief and clear description of the problem that you want to solve or investigate. It is more focused and specific than the research problem and provides a snapshot of the main issue being addressed.
Example of a Problem Statement: “ The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between social media usage and the mental health outcomes of adolescents, with a focus on depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.”
In summary, a research problem is the broader issue or question guiding the study, while the problem statement is a concise description of the specific problem being addressed in the research. The problem statement is usually found in the introduction section of a research proposal or thesis.
Formulating a research problem involves several challenges and considerations that researchers should carefully address:
In conclusion, understanding how to formulate a research problem is fundamental for you to have meaningful research and intellectual growth. Remember that a well-crafted research problem serves as the foundation for groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various fields. It not only enhances the credibility and relevance of your study but also contributes to the expansion of knowledge and the betterment of society.
Therefore, put more effort into the process of identifying and formulating research problems with enthusiasm and curiosity. Engage in comprehensive literature reviews, observe your surroundings, and reflect on the gaps in existing knowledge. Lastly, don’t forget to be mindful of the challenges and considerations, and ensure your research problem aligns with clear objectives and ethical principles.
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Chapman, R. G. (1989). Problem-definition in marketing research studies. Journal of Consumer Marketing, 6 (2), 51–59.
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James E. Sallis
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Ulf Henning Olsson
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Sallis, J.E., Gripsrud, G., Olsson, U.H., Silkoset, R. (2021). The Research Process and Problem Formulation. In: Research Methods and Data Analysis for Business Decisions. Classroom Companion: Business. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-84421-9_2
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A research problem is a definite or clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value question. In the social and behavioral sciences, studies are most often framed around examining a problem that needs to be understood and resolved in order to improve society and the human condition.
Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Guba, Egon G., and Yvonna S. Lincoln. “Competing Paradigms in Qualitative Research.” In Handbook of Qualitative Research . Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln, editors. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 1994), pp. 105-117; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.
The purpose of a problem statement is to:
In the social sciences, the research problem establishes the means by which you must answer the "So What?" question. This declarative question refers to a research problem surviving the relevancy test [the quality of a measurement procedure that provides repeatability and accuracy]. Note that answering the "So What?" question requires a commitment on your part to not only show that you have reviewed the literature, but that you have thoroughly considered the significance of the research problem and its implications applied to creating new knowledge and understanding or informing practice.
To survive the "So What" question, problem statements should possess the following attributes:
Bryman, Alan. “The Research Question in Social Research: What is its Role?” International Journal of Social Research Methodology 10 (2007): 5-20; Brown, Perry J., Allen Dyer, and Ross S. Whaley. "Recreation Research—So What?" Journal of Leisure Research 5 (1973): 16-24; Castellanos, Susie. Critical Writing and Thinking. The Writing Center. Dean of the College. Brown University; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova. "Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem." Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); Thesis and Purpose Statements. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Selwyn, Neil. "‘So What?’…A Question that Every Journal Article Needs to Answer." Learning, Media, and Technology 39 (2014): 1-5; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518.
I. Types and Content
There are four general conceptualizations of a research problem in the social sciences:
A problem statement in the social sciences should contain :
NOTE: A statement describing the research problem of your paper should not be viewed as a thesis statement that you may be familiar with from high school. Given the content listed above, a description of the research problem is usually a short paragraph in length.
II. Sources of Problems for Investigation
The identification of a problem to study can be challenging, not because there's a lack of issues that could be investigated, but due to the challenge of formulating an academically relevant and researchable problem which is unique and does not simply duplicate the work of others. To facilitate how you might select a problem from which to build a research study, consider these sources of inspiration:
Deductions from Theory This relates to deductions made from social philosophy or generalizations embodied in life and in society that the researcher is familiar with. These deductions from human behavior are then placed within an empirical frame of reference through research. From a theory, the researcher can formulate a research problem or hypothesis stating the expected findings in certain empirical situations. The research asks the question: “What relationship between variables will be observed if theory aptly summarizes the state of affairs?” One can then design and carry out a systematic investigation to assess whether empirical data confirm or reject the hypothesis, and hence, the theory.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives Identifying a problem that forms the basis for a research study can come from academic movements and scholarship originating in disciplines outside of your primary area of study. This can be an intellectually stimulating exercise. A review of pertinent literature should include examining research from related disciplines that can reveal new avenues of exploration and analysis. An interdisciplinary approach to selecting a research problem offers an opportunity to construct a more comprehensive understanding of a very complex issue that any single discipline may be able to provide.
Interviewing Practitioners The identification of research problems about particular topics can arise from formal interviews or informal discussions with practitioners who provide insight into new directions for future research and how to make research findings more relevant to practice. Discussions with experts in the field, such as, teachers, social workers, health care providers, lawyers, business leaders, etc., offers the chance to identify practical, “real world” problems that may be understudied or ignored within academic circles. This approach also provides some practical knowledge which may help in the process of designing and conducting your study.
Personal Experience Don't undervalue your everyday experiences or encounters as worthwhile problems for investigation. Think critically about your own experiences and/or frustrations with an issue facing society or related to your community, your neighborhood, your family, or your personal life. This can be derived, for example, from deliberate observations of certain relationships for which there is no clear explanation or witnessing an event that appears harmful to a person or group or that is out of the ordinary.
Relevant Literature The selection of a research problem can be derived from a thorough review of pertinent research associated with your overall area of interest. This may reveal where gaps exist in understanding a topic or where an issue has been understudied. Research may be conducted to: 1) fill such gaps in knowledge; 2) evaluate if the methodologies employed in prior studies can be adapted to solve other problems; or, 3) determine if a similar study could be conducted in a different subject area or applied in a different context or to different study sample [i.e., different setting or different group of people]. Also, authors frequently conclude their studies by noting implications for further research; read the conclusion of pertinent studies because statements about further research can be a valuable source for identifying new problems to investigate. The fact that a researcher has identified a topic worthy of further exploration validates the fact it is worth pursuing.
III. What Makes a Good Research Statement?
A good problem statement begins by introducing the broad area in which your research is centered, gradually leading the reader to the more specific issues you are investigating. The statement need not be lengthy, but a good research problem should incorporate the following features:
1. Compelling Topic The problem chosen should be one that motivates you to address it but simple curiosity is not a good enough reason to pursue a research study because this does not indicate significance. The problem that you choose to explore must be important to you, but it must also be viewed as important by your readers and to a the larger academic and/or social community that could be impacted by the results of your study. 2. Supports Multiple Perspectives The problem must be phrased in a way that avoids dichotomies and instead supports the generation and exploration of multiple perspectives. A general rule of thumb in the social sciences is that a good research problem is one that would generate a variety of viewpoints from a composite audience made up of reasonable people. 3. Researchability This isn't a real word but it represents an important aspect of creating a good research statement. It seems a bit obvious, but you don't want to find yourself in the midst of investigating a complex research project and realize that you don't have enough prior research to draw from for your analysis. There's nothing inherently wrong with original research, but you must choose research problems that can be supported, in some way, by the resources available to you. If you are not sure if something is researchable, don't assume that it isn't if you don't find information right away--seek help from a librarian !
NOTE: Do not confuse a research problem with a research topic. A topic is something to read and obtain information about, whereas a problem is something to be solved or framed as a question raised for inquiry, consideration, or solution, or explained as a source of perplexity, distress, or vexation. In short, a research topic is something to be understood; a research problem is something that needs to be investigated.
IV. Asking Analytical Questions about the Research Problem
Research problems in the social and behavioral sciences are often analyzed around critical questions that must be investigated. These questions can be explicitly listed in the introduction [i.e., "This study addresses three research questions about women's psychological recovery from domestic abuse in multi-generational home settings..."], or, the questions are implied in the text as specific areas of study related to the research problem. Explicitly listing your research questions at the end of your introduction can help in designing a clear roadmap of what you plan to address in your study, whereas, implicitly integrating them into the text of the introduction allows you to create a more compelling narrative around the key issues under investigation. Either approach is appropriate.
The number of questions you attempt to address should be based on the complexity of the problem you are investigating and what areas of inquiry you find most critical to study. Practical considerations, such as, the length of the paper you are writing or the availability of resources to analyze the issue can also factor in how many questions to ask. In general, however, there should be no more than four research questions underpinning a single research problem.
Given this, well-developed analytical questions can focus on any of the following:
NOTE: Questions of how and why concerning a research problem often require more analysis than questions about who, what, where, and when. You should still ask yourself these latter questions, however. Thinking introspectively about the who, what, where, and when of a research problem can help ensure that you have thoroughly considered all aspects of the problem under investigation and helps define the scope of the study in relation to the problem.
V. Mistakes to Avoid
Beware of circular reasoning! Do not state the research problem as simply the absence of the thing you are suggesting. For example, if you propose the following, "The problem in this community is that there is no hospital," this only leads to a research problem where:
This is an example of a research problem that fails the "So What?" test . In this example, the problem does not reveal the relevance of why you are investigating the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., perhaps there's a hospital in the community ten miles away]; it does not elucidate the significance of why one should study the fact there is no hospital in the community [e.g., that hospital in the community ten miles away has no emergency room]; the research problem does not offer an intellectual pathway towards adding new knowledge or clarifying prior knowledge [e.g., the county in which there is no hospital already conducted a study about the need for a hospital, but it was conducted ten years ago]; and, the problem does not offer meaningful outcomes that lead to recommendations that can be generalized for other situations or that could suggest areas for further research [e.g., the challenges of building a new hospital serves as a case study for other communities].
Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. “Generating Research Questions Through Problematization.” Academy of Management Review 36 (April 2011): 247-271 ; Choosing and Refining Topics. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; D'Souza, Victor S. "Use of Induction and Deduction in Research in Social Sciences: An Illustration." Journal of the Indian Law Institute 24 (1982): 655-661; Ellis, Timothy J. and Yair Levy Nova. "Framework of Problem-Based Research: A Guide for Novice Researchers on the Development of a Research-Worthy Problem." Informing Science: the International Journal of an Emerging Transdiscipline 11 (2008); How to Write a Research Question. The Writing Center. George Mason University; Invention: Developing a Thesis Statement. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Problem Statements PowerPoint Presentation. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Procter, Margaret. Using Thesis Statements. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Shoket, Mohd. "Research Problem: Identification and Formulation." International Journal of Research 1 (May 2014): 512-518; Trochim, William M.K. Problem Formulation. Research Methods Knowledge Base. 2006; Thesis and Purpose Statements. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Thesis Statements. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Pardede, Parlindungan. “Identifying and Formulating the Research Problem." Research in ELT: Module 4 (October 2018): 1-13; Walk, Kerry. Asking an Analytical Question. [Class handout or worksheet]. Princeton University; White, Patrick. Developing Research Questions: A Guide for Social Scientists . New York: Palgrave McMillan, 2009; Li, Yanmei, and Sumei Zhang. "Identifying the Research Problem." In Applied Research Methods in Urban and Regional Planning . (Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2022), pp. 13-21.
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Home » Research Methodology » The Research Problem
The first step in research is formulating the research problem . Stefan Nowak defined a research problem as “a certain question or set of questions to which the research is to provide an answer”.
Identifying a research problem is the first and foremost step in any research process. A researcher has to devote considerable time and attention for this. A research problem refers to some deprivation or shortcoming or a gap in knowledge that a researcher experiences in a theoretical or practical situation and wants to find a solution for the same. Research really begins when the above referred situation demanding a solution is perceived by the researcher within the realm of general topic selected by hum. The general area of interest here refers to the range of the subject matter within which he has to see and pose a specific problem for research. So, the formulation of the topic into a research problem is really, the first step in a scientific enquiry.
The general area of study may be suggested either by some practical concern or some scientific or intellectual curiosity, which in turn may be a general subject of which little is known or a particular phenomenon which may be probed more deeply. In fields which have a highly developed theoretical base, the researcher may want to put specific predictions and expectations to test against the much established theory.
The selection of a topic for research is only half a step forward. Generalization of a topic is of no relevance to the researcher in as much as it does not help him perceive, secure and organize his data. Hence the need to formulate a very specific research problem. A research problem defines the goal of the researcher in clear terms. It is said that, “if you start from nowhere, you will generally reach there”. Without a goal, i.e., without a specific problem posed before him, the researcher will be searching for a needle in a haystack. A well defined goal for a researcher is like a well-lit road before a traveler in the pitch darkness of night. The more pin-pointed the topic, the more it comes into focus before the researcher. Thus, it is clear that the topic should be so formulated that its scope could be progressively narrowed and then specific challenging questions, emerge in simple terms. This is essentially the first step in a scientific enquiry.
Usually a research problem selection depends on the following conditions on the practical side.
The formulation of the research problem also aims in making various components of the problem explicit. A problem well framed is half solved. It would seem easy to pose a problem for research, but in reality it is not so. Even Charles Darwin in his Origin of Species has testified to this by saying “Looking back, I think it was more difficult to see what the problems were than to solve them”. There is another point to remember here. Although every problem involves a question or a series of questions, not every question qualifies as a scientific problem.
Guidance in identifying a problem of research is afforded when we go through R.L.Ackoffs, ‘The Design of Social Research’ wherein he visualized the five components of a research problem. In other words, research problems may be identified on the basis of these five concepts, which are in fact touchstones for a researcher. They are:
Research problems may be selected from the following sources:
Social science research problems may be of three distinct varieties differing in form, content, and mode of verification’s. These are:
Problem formulation is structuring the problem such that it is focused, pointed and absolutely clear. Problem formulation has certain stages, definition of problem, and delimitation of the problem and justification of the problem.
Problem definition gives a concise and clear statement of the problem in terms objectives of the study, research questions of the study and the hypothesis of the study.
It is important to define and elucidate the research problem as a whole and further define all the technical and unusual terms employed in the statement. By this the research worker removes the chance of misinterpretation of any of these crucial terms. The definition helps to establish the frame of reference with which the researcher approaches the problem.
Delimitation involves earmarking the scope of the investigation. determines the boundaries of the research problem. This delimitation mentions the functional and geographical limits of the study i.e., whether the study will be covering a certain town, a district, a region, a state on a country. Again it is important to mention as to what subjects will constitute the sample of the study and how they will be distributed over the institutions, geographical areas or time intervals.
Before the proposed research problem can be considered appropriate, several searching questions should be raised. Only, when those questions are answered in the affirmative can be problem be considered a good one.
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Published on 8 November 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George.
A research problem is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to address in your research. You may choose to look for practical problems aimed at contributing to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge.
Some research will do both of these things, but usually the research problem focuses on one or the other. The type of research problem you choose depends on your broad topic of interest and the type of research you think will fit best.
This article helps you identify and refine a research problem. When writing your research proposal or introduction , formulate it as a problem statement and/or research questions .
Why is the research problem important, step 1: identify a broad problem area, step 2: learn more about the problem, frequently asked questions about research problems.
Having an interesting topic isn’t a strong enough basis for academic research. Without a well-defined research problem, you are likely to end up with an unfocused and unmanageable project.
You might end up repeating what other people have already said, trying to say too much, or doing research without a clear purpose and justification. You need a clear problem in order to do research that contributes new and relevant insights.
Whether you’re planning your thesis , starting a research paper , or writing a research proposal , the research problem is the first step towards knowing exactly what you’ll do and why.
As you read about your topic, look for under-explored aspects or areas of concern, conflict, or controversy. Your goal is to find a gap that your research project can fill.
If you are doing practical research, you can identify a problem by reading reports, following up on previous research, or talking to people who work in the relevant field or organisation. You might look for:
Voter turnout in New England has been decreasing, in contrast to the rest of the country.
The HR department of a local chain of restaurants has a high staff turnover rate.
A non-profit organisation faces a funding gap that means some of its programs will have to be cut.
If you are doing theoretical research, you can identify a research problem by reading existing research, theory, and debates on your topic to find a gap in what is currently known about it. You might look for:
The effects of long-term Vitamin D deficiency on cardiovascular health are not well understood.
The relationship between gender, race, and income inequality has yet to be closely studied in the context of the millennial gig economy.
Historians of Scottish nationalism disagree about the role of the British Empire in the development of Scotland’s national identity.
Next, you have to find out what is already known about the problem, and pinpoint the exact aspect that your research will address.
A local non-profit organisation focused on alleviating food insecurity has always fundraised from its existing support base. It lacks understanding of how best to target potential new donors. To be able to continue its work, the organisation requires research into more effective fundraising strategies.
Once you have narrowed down your research problem, the next step is to formulate a problem statement , as well as your research questions or hypotheses .
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement.
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .
A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis – a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.
Research objectives describe what you intend your research project to accomplish.
They summarise the approach and purpose of the project and help to focus your research.
Your objectives should appear in the introduction of your research paper , at the end of your problem statement .
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Research is an investigation or experimentation that is aimed at a discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of theories or laws or practical application of the new or revised theories or laws. Identification of research problem leads in conducting a research. To initiate a research, the necessity for the research, to be carried out should be generated.The ideas and topics are developed while consulting literatures, discussions with experts and continuation of activities related to the subject matter. These ideas/topics generally called research problems and are statements about areas of concern, a condition to be improved, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or in practice that points to the need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation. A research problem does not state how to do something, offer a vague or broad proposition, or present a value question. The problem must be significant researchable lead to further research and suitable for the researcher. Formulation of the problem should lead to empirical investigation. Formulation of research problem should depict what is to be determined and scope of the study.It also involves key concept definitions questions to be asked. The objective of the present paper highlights the above stated issues.
Msafiri Ponera
Jaffar Ponera , Msafiri Ponera
Academic libraries in Tanzania play the pivotal role especially in teaching, learning and research activities. They are especially important in collecting, processing, organizing and making information available to users. However, academic libraries face several challenges which include among others information explosion, budget deficit, shortage of library materials, and lack of support from the institutional top management, this paper addresses these challenges. Objectives of this study was to Identify benefits offered by library cooperation and resource sharing, to examine factors for successful library cooperation and resource sharing and finally to identify challenges facing the formation of library cooperation and resource sharing among Universities. The study predominantly adopted a desk study whose source of data was secondary. This was derived from books, various websites, periodicals, journals and newspapers. Findings of the study shows that library cooperation and resource sharing offer a number of benefits to staff students and researchers including exchange of documents through interlibrary loan and document delivery service, access to information at a right time by users and achievement of better academic performance among students. Study also found that in order to form sustainable cooperation among Universities library there should be commitment in membership among the cooperating institutions and clear guidelines on the management of the cooperation. Challenges facing the formation of library cooperation and resources sharing were also identified, these include budget constraints among the institutions, absence of library cooperation policy, lack of current materials in Universities library's collections and shortage of professional librarians to work in a networked environment. Study recommended that, there is a need to prepare a memorandum of understanding among the two institutions which will provide legal framework on how cooperation will be implemented, formulation of library cooperation policy to guide the daily operations of the cooperation, employment of professional library staff who can work in a networked environment, libraries should adopt and use computerized library services and finally the institutional top management should support the whole process which will result to the formation of library cooperation and resources sharing between MoCU and MWECAU.
anthony rose
Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in academia is wellknown for its importance and effectiveness. At the same time, it is also one of aspects of any education system, which needs a consistent reality check for its adoption by educators. A research has been undertaken by the authors in developing ICT Adoption Model for Indian Higher Education Sector. The research aims to identify real challenges faced by the academia in ICT adoption, measures to overcome the challenges and come up with a framework in the form of Adoption Model for any institution to consider ICT for adoption.
Dr. Md Inaam Akhtar
International Journal of Research
Edupedia Publications
This research was intended to examine if training in the learning strategies of writing brings significantly different effects on students of different ability groups of writing (high, medium and low), user-groups of the strategies (high-users, medium-users and low-users) and gender with regard to improving their belief about autonomous learning of writing. To this end, the selected freshman program students of Hawassa University were taught lessons of the Basic Writing Skills course with training in the learning strategies of writing. Data were collected through a five-point Likert Scale questionnaire. The research employed a quantitative-methods design. One-Way ANOVA computed revealed that there was a significant difference among the high, medium or low ability groups and among the high, medium or low user-groups of the learning strategies of writing with regard to improving their belief about autonomous learning of writing after receiving the training (F-value = 5.58 and P-value = .006 for the ability groups; F-value = 7.068 and P-value = .002 for the user-groups). The Post Hoc Tests computed demonstrated that the high ability group outperformed the low ability group (P-value = .006), and the high user-group surpassed the medium and low user-groups (P-values = .030, .003). Independent-Samples T Test computed indicated that there was no significant difference between males and females with regard to improving their belief about autonomous learning of writing after receiving the training (T-value = 1.694, P-value = .103). Based on the findings, a recommendation has been made that training in the learning strategies of writing should be conducted by giving due attention to the low achievers and to the medium and low-users of the strategies, at least by minimizing factors that might make them not to benefit from the training, to improve their belief about autonomous learning of writing. Moreover, studies should be conducted to explore factors that make these students not to benefit from the training to improve their belief about autonomous learning of writing.
Dr. Ike TANDOH,APR,MCIM
The study investigated factors consumers consider in choosing a bank in Ghana. Questionnaires were sent to 300 respondents who were selected from the sample area of Kumasi, the second capital of Ghana. The result revealed five most important factors consumers consider when they are selecting a bank. They include; availability of Automated teller machine (ATM machine), effective and efficient customer service, ease of obtaining loan, number of branches and the rates of interest on saving. The study further revealed that friends and/or family members are very important to customer as they serve as the first source of information when it comes to the selection of banks. On the basis of the findings, it was recommended that, banks in Ghana invest in marketing research to identify the needs and wants of their customers so as to be able to provide them with products and services that will satisfy the identified needs of customers. The study recommends that, Ghanaian banks provide consumers with demand products and also pay more attention to the five most important factors mentioned which consumers consider when selecting a bank
Edupedia Publications , Bulent Alagoz
Information For Readers For Authors For Librarians For More info, visit us at http://internationaljournalofresearch.com/read-more/ Processing Fees for Research Paper Publication Article Tools Print this article Indexing metadata How to cite item Finding References Email this article Email the author About The Author Bulent ALAGOZ PhD, Assitant Professor, Faculty of Nizip Education, Gaziantep University, TURKEY Turkey Notifications View (66 new) Manage Free counters! Open Access Content Logo of IJR Call for Papers Font Size Make font size smaller Make font size default Make font size larger Journal Content Search Search Scope Browse By Issue By Author By Title User You are logged in as... editor My Profile Log Out ijr Be a Published Author, Submit Your Article Today IJR You can find IJR listed at http://www.drji.org/JournalProfile.aspx?jid=2348-6848 Certificate of Indexing Certificate of Indexing Certificate of Impact Factor Impact Factor of IJR Public foxyform Home About User Home Search Current Archives Announcements Thesis Abstracts Call for Papers Submission Guidelines Indexing & Abstracting Editorial Board Ethical Codes Policies of IJR Scholar’s Support Scheme Aim & Objectives Important Dates Conference Sponsorship Manuscript Submission Special Issue Proposal Processing Fee Certificates of Publication Print Version Thesis/Dissertiona or Book Publication Membership Benefits Home > Vol 2, No 2 (2015) > ALAGOZ Developing Attitude Scale on Economy Education towardTeacher Candidates of Social Studies- A Study of Validity and Reliability Bulent ALAGOZ Abstract Economics is a factor causing people to make decisions which result in their biggest happiness or sadness. We take economical decisions. While taking decisions, we solve problems, think creatively and sometimes adapt a critical manner and criticise several individuals and associations in different ways and methods. Claiming rights, calling someone to account, reacting against injustices and voting which is one of the most important duties of citizens, are the basic criteria of a functioning democracy. Social studiesisa discipline that is shaped in order to redound such abilities to individuals. The aim of this study is to develop a measurement tool in order to determine teacher candidates of social studies towards economy. Study was carried out through a sample consisting of 436 teacher candidates of social sciences. Validity and reliability analyses indicate that this measurement tool is adequate in measuring attitudes of teacher candidates of social studies towards economy education.
The examination system of India has remained unchanged for so many years. No doubt this system is full of stress that’s why most of Newspaper and magazines publish articles on this topic during the examination session in the education system of India, ability of a student is decided by an examination. In this system, there is no place for the performance of a student in a full academic session. Scoring more and more marks in exams has become the only aim of a student. First of all, if this system is better then all those who scores good marks in these must be brilliant and successful life. But reality is different now a day most of the institutions do not give admission on marks basis. They have a separate test and this trend is growing rapidly because they have no faith in this examination system. The mindset of the society is also responsible for making the exam a source of stress. If someone scores good marks in examination, then society starts treating him like a hero. On the other hand, if someone scores less mark than society treats him just like an untouchable. At this point one question arises what is the importance of getting more and more marks in an examination? Just getting admission in a reputed educational institution or making a first impression to any employer firm. If anyone gets a job, then he must have to perform well on practical front marks of any examination won’t work there only knowledge will work there.
International Journal of Research Available at https://edupediapublications.org/journals
Kibuuka Muhammad
This study evaluated the effect of entrepreneurial personal networks on performance of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs), using 393 respondents selected from manufacturing, education, trade and other services in Kano state, Nigeria. SMEs' efforts toward providing solution to the problem of unemployment in Nigeria and the world at large face stiff opposition from their conception as a result of many factors being responsible. The study employed cross sectional research design in which data was collected using mixed strategies, interview and questionnaire, results using Pearson linear correlation and regression analysis. Results indicate there is positive and significant relationship between SMEs performance and entrepreneurial personal networks. Entrepreneurial personal networks had a significant effect on SMEs performance. The study adds value to the growing body of knowledge in the field of entrepreneurial development activities. The study recommends that entrepreneurial personal networks should be encouraged by ensuring that operators participate vigorous networking activities with their local chamber of commerce and make sure that such activities are done frequently so that their abilities can be broadened and improve their performance, the study serves as a reference to anyone who is interested in establishing his personal business as it provides insight into the improvement of entrepreneurial personal networks in starting a new business and also for any organization that is interested in achieving profitability or continue sustaining effective business venture.
Mutebi Edrine
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Characteristics, Types, and Examples. August 22, 2023 Sunaina Singh. Knowing the basics of defining a research problem is instrumental in formulating a research inquiry. A research problem is a gap in existing knowledge, a contradiction in an established theory, or a real-world challenge that a researcher aims to address in their research.
identify and determine the problem to study. Identifying a research problem is important. because, as the issue or concern in a particular setting that motivates and guides the need. Parlindungan ...
Research Problem. Definition: Research problem is a specific and well-defined issue or question that a researcher seeks to investigate through research. It is the starting point of any research project, as it sets the direction, scope, and purpose of the study. ... Business research: Research problems are used to guide business research ...
b. Organise and list all the themes you want to discuss and relate. c. Identify and describe various theories relevant to your field of research. d. Describe the gaps that exist in the body of knowledge in. To do so: a. Start your review with a theme or points that you want. your field.
A research problem is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to address in your research. You may choose to look for practical problems aimed at contributing to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge. Some research will do both of these things, but usually the research problem focuses on one or the other.
Formulating a research problem is usually done under the first step of research process, i.e., defining the research problem. Identification, clarification and formulation of a research problem is done using different steps as: Discover the Management Dilemma. Define the Management Question. Define the Research Question.
A compelling research problem not only captivates the attention of your peers but also lays the foundation for impactful and meaningful research outcomes. Identifying a Research Problem. To identify a research problem, you need a systematic approach and a deep understanding of the subject area. Below are some steps to guide you in this process:
Make the appropriate corrections to the research question, and leave it again for some time. Continue with such iterations until you are satisfied with the research problem formulation. Any research starts with a question, the answer to which is unknown or unavailable. The research is completed when the answer is found.
The formulation of research problems is a cornerstone of reflective thinking in scientific inquiry. This process transforms issues into clear questions, laying the groundwork for research and ...
Problems and opportunities arise in the course of doing business. In this chapter, we introduced the research process and explained problem formulation. Distinguishing between symptoms and underlying problems is an essential step at the beginning of the research process. Without the distinction, there is a great risk of studying the wrong thing.
Understand research design and the process of research design. Formulate a research problem and state it as a hypothesis. 1.3 MEANING OF RESEARCH Research is a process to discover new knowledge to find answers to a question. The word research has two parts re (again) and search (find) which denote that we are taking up an
5. Select and include important variables. A clear and manageable research problem typically includes the variables that are most relevant to the study. A research team summarizes how they plan to consider and use these variables and how they might influence the results of the study. Selecting the most important variables can help the study's ...
Formulation of the problem includes: stating the problem in the form of statements or questions which make the problem clear and understandable, identification and operationalisation of the variables concisely, and evaluating the problem in terms of its significance, novelty and feasibility.
esearch question for a study, depending on the complex-ity and breadth of your proposed work. Each question should be clear and specific, refer to the problem or phenomenon, reflect an inter. ention in experimental work, and note the target population or participants (see Figure 2.1). Identifying a research question will provide greater focus ...
Definition. A research problem is a definite or clear expression [statement] about an area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature, in theory, or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding and deliberate investigation ...
The first step in research is formulating the research problem.Stefan Nowak defined a research problem as "a certain question or set of questions to which the research is to provide an answer".. Problem Identification. Identifying a research problem is the first and foremost step in any research process. A researcher has to devote considerable time and attention for this.
A research problem is a specific issue or gap in existing knowledge that you aim to address in your research. You may choose to look for practical problems aimed at contributing to change, or theoretical problems aimed at expanding knowledge. Some research will do both of these things, but usually the research problem focuses on one or the other.
Identification and formulation of research problem. How to identify a problem, different sources of research problem and how to delimit and formulate a resea...
Research Problem: Identification and Formulation. Research is an investigation or experimentation that is aimed at a discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of theories or laws or practical application of the new or revised theories or laws. Identification of research problem leads in conducting a research.