Research Objectives Definition and Importance

Definition and Importance of Research Objectives

• A research objective is a concise statement outlining the specific goals and aims of a research study, describing what the researcher intends to accomplish.
• Research objectives guide every step of the research process, including data collection, argument development, and conclusion formulation.
• They help focus the research by summarizing the approach and purpose of the project.
• Clearly defined objectives allow for easy evaluation of research methods and conclusions.

Distinguishing Research Objectives from Research Aims

• A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of the research project, typically appearing at the end of the problem statement.
• Research objectives are more specific than the aim, indicating the particular focus and approach of the project.
• Researchers often have several objectives aligned with their research aim.

Example of Research Aim and Objectives

• Research Aim: To examine contributory factors to muscle retention in a group of elderly people.
• Research Objectives:
  • Assess the relationship between sedentary habits and muscle atrophy among participants.
  • Determine the impact of dietary factors (especially protein consumption) on participants’ muscular health.
  • Investigate the effect of physical activity on participants’ muscular health.

Choosing a Research Area

• Medical & Pharmaceutical Sciences:
  • Personal Interest: Select a research area based on specific diseases, drug mechanisms, or medical technologies that interest you
  • Clinical Need: Identify unmet medical needs or areas with limited treatment options
  • Scientific Merit: Consider the potential for your research to contribute significantly to the field
  • Feasibility: Think about available resources, research infrastructure, and ethical considerations

Basic Health Sciences

• Fundamental Questions: Explore areas at the core of understanding health and disease processes
• Emerging Technologies: Consider incorporating new tools like gene editing or bioinformatics
• Translational Potential: Look for research with the potential to bridge the gap to clinical applications
• Collaboration: Basic sciences often thrive on collaboration with other disciplines

Applied Sciences

• Real-World Problems: Focus on problems in healthcare delivery, diagnostics, or public health interventions
• Innovation: Explore the use of technology or engineering principles to improve healthcare
• Marketability: Consider the potential for practical application and commercialization
• Sustainability: Think about the environmental and resource implications of your research

Social Sciences & Literature

• Social Determinants of Health: Explore how social factors like poverty or education impact health outcomes
• Healthcare Policy & Ethics: Examine healthcare access, equity, and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery
• Patient Perspectives: Use literature or social science methods to understand patient experiences and needs
• Communication & Behavior Change: Explore how communication strategies can promote healthy behaviors

General Considerations Across Disciplines

• Your Passion: Choose a field that genuinely interests you, as research can be a long-term commitment
• Faculty Expertise: Align your interests with faculty advisors who can provide guidance and mentorship
• Career Goals: Consider how your research aligns with your future career aspirations
• Data Availability: Think about the type of data you need and its accessibility within your chosen field