Research Introduction and Problem Statement

The core issue or question a research paper addresses. It guides the entire research process.

A clear, specific question that prompts an investigation to find a solution.

Aims to identify, categorize, and name factors or situations.

Finds relationships between identified factors.

Examines how changes in one variable affect another.

Measurable factors involved in a research study. They can change.

The location or context where the research takes place.

Selecting a suitable topic for research. It must be feasible and engaging.

A hypothesis that states there is no significant difference or relationship between variables.

A hypothesis that states there is a significant difference or relationship between variables.

A testable statement about the expected relationship between variables.

Not typically formulated, but instead investigated for generating understanding of a phenomenon

Grading given by general education teachers, that might be different from special education teachers for the same homework.

Grading given by special education teachers, that might be different from general education teachers for the same homework.

The behavior of smoking divided by different demographics, like gender.

Differences in something for males and females, such as smoking rate.

The range of information or subjects covered in a research study. It determines what will be included in the research.

Specific factors or limitations that the researcher consciously chooses to exclude from the study. These are controlled aspects.

Scope refers to the overall coverage of the study, while delimitation refers to specific factors that are intentionally excluded. Scope is determined by factors like sample size and time, while delimitation focuses on the researcher's specific choices.

Factors beyond the researcher's control that can impact the study's scope or findings. These are external constraints.

Limitations are factors that the researcher cannot control, while delimitations are factors the researcher chooses to exclude. Limitations are like natural barriers, while delimitations are like fences you build yourself.

Common limitations include sample size, time constraints, geographical location, and availability of resources. These can affect the generalizability and scope of the findings.

Examples of delimitations include focusing on a specific age group, using a particular research method, or using a specific type of questionnaire.

They help to clearly define the research's boundaries, ensuring a focused and manageable study. This promotes clarity and avoids potential misunderstandings.

A clear and specific definition of a term or concept used in a study, based on how it will be measured and observed in the research. It goes beyond a dictionary definition and is tailored to the specific context and objectives of the study.

A definition of a term based on a scholarly or scientific source, typically with citations. It provides a general and theoretical understanding of the concept.

A research approach focused on exploring complex social phenomena, understanding participants' perspectives, and generating rich, detailed descriptions.

Breaking down a broad research topic into smaller, more manageable pieces to identify specific areas of focus for the study.

Formulating specific questions about the chosen research topic that the study aims to answer.

Creating clear and specific goals for the research study, outlining what the researcher aims to achieve.

The overall goal of the research study, providing a broad overview of the research's purpose.

Detailed and specific steps or actions the researcher will take to achieve the main objective of the study.

A flexible approach where you ask open-ended questions and allow for follow-up questions based on the interviewee's responses. It offers more detail than structured interviews.

A more rigid approach where questions are predetermined and followed in a specific order. Provides consistent data but might limit the interview's depth.

The most flexible approach, where questions are guided by the interviewee's responses. It allows for in-depth exploration of a few specific topics.

Questions that encourage detailed and nuanced responses. They allow for freedom of expression and exploration of the interviewee's perspective.

Questions asked based on the interviewee's previous responses. They help clarify, expand, or deepen understanding of specific points.

Predetermined questions that act as a framework in semi-structured interviews. They guide the conversation but allow for flexibility.

Interviews in the healthcare field often utilize semi-structured approaches to gather detailed patient information and perspectives.

The number of participants in a focus group, ideally 6-8 but can range from 3 to 14.

The facilitator who guides the discussion, ensuring everyone participates and staying on topic.

The order of questions should go from general to specific, following the research agenda's logic.

Guiding the discussion, ensuring respectful participation, and avoiding personal opinions.

A formula used to calculate sample size in quantitative research, considering population and desired error margin.

Selecting a subset of the population to represent the whole group in research.

The acceptable level of error in a sample, affecting how accurately it reflects the entire population.

Actively changing certain factors in a study to observe their effects on other factors.