12 Questions
What is the primary role of a research problem in the scientific method?
To serve as a thread that binds everything together
What is a characteristic of a well-defined research problem?
It is narrow and manageable for study
What is the primary purpose of identifying a general subject in selecting a research problem?
To maintain focus during the months of conducting the study
What is an example of a source of research problems?
A theory of learning
What is the characteristic of a theory that can provide the inspiration for a research problem?
It is an organized body of concepts, generalizations, and principles
What is an example of how a theory can inspire a research problem?
A researcher may explore certain factors that may affect the length of time children take to pass from one stage to the next
What is the primary reason researchers participate in class discussions or read articles in local newspapers?
To identify research problems that capture their interest
What is the main advantage of replicating a study?
To verify the results of the original study
What is a common limitation of relying solely on library searches to identify research problems?
They are not efficient ways to identify research problems
What is the primary purpose of electronic mailing list services and digital tools?
To facilitate communication among researchers
What is the main reason researchers need to narrow down their research problems?
To make the study more manageable and focused
What is a key difference between quantitative and qualitative research problems?
Quantitative research problems are narrowed quickly at the start of a study
Study Notes
Importance of a Research Problem
- Provides focus and structure for the remaining steps in the scientific method
- Acts as the thread that binds everything together
Sources of Research Problems
- Theories (e.g., theories of learning and behavior)
- Personal experiences and concerns
- Previous studies that can be replicated
- Electronic mailing lists
- Library searches (more useful after identifying a problem)
Identifying a Research Problem
- Identify a general subject related to your area of expertise and of particular interest
- Narrow down the scope of the problem to make it manageable for study
- Consider consulting with faculty advisors and reviewing current research in the problem area
Narrowing the Problem
- Select a specific aspect of the general problem area related to your expertise
- Be cautious not to narrow the problem too much, but rather find a balance
- Quantitative research problems are usually narrowed quickly, while qualitative research problems are narrowed after gathering more information about participants and setting
Learn about the importance of a research problem in the scientific method, including how it provides focus and structure for the remaining steps. Understand the challenges of refining a research problem and the need for flexibility and rethinking.
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