Introduction to What is a Research Problem? Definition, Selection, Formulation, Characteristics and Examples of Research Problem.
In this article we will go through the topic What is a Research Problem? Definition, Selection, Formulation, Characteristics and Examples of Research Problem. Research Problem signifies a void in current understanding, a conflict within an accepted theory, or a practical obstacle awaiting resolution that a researcher endeavors to tackle in their study. It serves as the nucleus of scientific exploration, shaping the path of inquiry. Articulating the problem not only underscores the significance of the subject matter but also situates it within a specific context, outlining the essential boundaries and parameters that guide the investigation. This underscores the pivotal role of research problems in delineating the scope of study and providing a framework for communicating research outcomes effectively.
What is a Research Problem?
Definitions of Research Problem
“A research problem is essentially a question mark in the realm of knowledge. It’s the gap we identify between what we currently understand and what we aim to comprehend. This gap can manifest as an unresolved contradiction in theories, an unexplored area in a field, or a pressing issue in society. Addressing this problem becomes the driving force behind our scholarly pursuits, propelling us towards new insights and deeper understanding.”
Dr. Smith, Professor of Sociology
“From my perspective, a research problem is akin to a puzzle waiting to be solved. It represents the challenge we set out to overcome through systematic investigation and analysis. Whether it’s unraveling complexities in natural phenomena, deciphering patterns in data, or devising solutions to practical dilemmas, the research problem serves as the focal point around which our research endeavors revolve. It’s the spark that ignites our curiosity and fuels our quest for knowledge.”
Dr. Patel, Research Scientist
“The research problem is the heartbeat of scientific inquiry, pulsating with the urgent need for resolution. It encapsulates the pressing issues and unmet challenges that demand attention. By identifying and addressing these problems, researchers contribute to the collective effort of advancing knowledge, improving practices, and ultimately enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities.”
Dr. Garcia, Researcher in Public Health
What is a Research Problem?
Selection of the Research Problem
The most important step of research is the selection of problem or subject of study. Every thought or problem cannot be a subject of research. A problem should have certain important characteristics in order to form the subject matter of research. Thus, while selecting a problem for research, certain important aspects should be kept in view such as-whether the facts pertaining to the problem will be available, what will be the area or scope of study pertinent to the problem; whether sufficient literature is available concerning the problem and whether the problem or the issues concerning the problem have been investigated in the past. An experienced investigator will, first of all, select the problem in a very careful as well as systematic manner because selection of an undesirable problem is likely to result in waste of time, energy and resources including money.
Following aspects should be kept in view while selecting a problem for Research
(a) The subject matter of the problem should be such which the researcher is able to comprehend fully. It should be possible for the researcher to complete the research work within a given time.
(b) If no other research work is available on the subject of research, then, its scope should not be kept very broad.
(c) It should be borne in mind whether the study of the problem is possible with the help of available data and entries.
(d) It should be seen whether scientific conclusion can be drawn about the problem by conducting research.
(e)The level of knowledge, awareness and interest of the researcher should be kept in view while selecting a subject of research.
Formulation of the Research Problem
Besides selection, equally important is the formulation of the research problem. Many a time though researchers are able to select their research area, they are less exact as far as stating of their problem is concerned because there will be several aspects of the problem. What is to be studied and what is not to be studied is always confusing to the researcher. The experience of the guide or the researcher matters much in this connection.
There are two methods of stating a problems
(i) Posing questions and
(ii) making statements
An effective problem formulation involves the following:
1. Definition of the Problem
Before one takes up a problem for study, he/she needs to define it properly. The wisdom of the researcher comes to light in the manner the problem is defined. If any existing theoretical framework is to be tested, the researcher must identify the popular theories related to the problem. Similarly, if there are any assumptions made and terms used; the meaning of the terms and assumptions must be made clear. As far as possible statement of the problem should be unambiguous. For example, if a researcher is interested in probing into the poor performance of Banking sector, he must decide about the units and regions in which he is interested.
2. Scope of the Problem
The researcher must also fix up the four walls of the study. There may be several aspects of the study, the researcher must identify which of the aspects he is trying to prove.
3. Justification of the Problem
Many a times research studies are put to test of justification or relevance. It is highly difficult to distinguish between the useful and useless research to the society. The problems that contribute or fill up the gap in the existing knowledge need to be highlighted.
4. Feasibility of the Problem
Assessing the feasibility of a problem is crucial before embarking on its study. Feasibility entails determining whether the research can be conducted successfully, considering factors such as time, data availability, and cost. Many research endeavors demand significant financial resources, extensive data sets, and extended periods to complete. Therefore, researchers must carefully evaluate these aspects to determine the viability of pursuing a particular topic within their individual constraints.
5. Originality of the Problem
There is always a doubt in the minds of the researchers as to the suitability of a particular topic in terms of its originality or newness. Another problem faced by researcher is that problem which he intends to study is already worked out. Should he repeat the same or not? There may be a time when it is appropriate to replicate a study to verify its conclusion or extend the validity of its findings to a different situation.
Characteristics of a Good Research Problem
(1) Clear and Unambiguous
There must be perfect clarity in the problem taken for study. It should not give scope for divergent expressions.
(2) Logical and Systematic
Research is guided by logic or reasoning. Therefore, the researcher must be able to establish relationships in a logical manner and they should not look disjoint.
(3) Empirical
Research is always related to one or more aspects of real situation. Therefore, the problem should be such as to take realities in to consideration.
(4) Relation between Variables
The problem selected for study should express a relation between the variable in the study. It is through this process of establishing effective relation between variables that meaningful conclusions are derived from the study.
(5) Verifiable
The problem selected for study should be under taken with an intention to make the study useful and replicable.
(6) Management
The scope of the study depends on the purpose in mind. The topic of the research should be within the reach of the researcher and yet to fulfil the basic requirements of a study at the specified level.
An Examples of a Research Problem
let’s formulate a problem statement related to a current issue, such as the impact of remote work on employee productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic
Initial Broad Problem
“How has remote work affected employee productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic?”
First Refinement
1. What aspects of productivity are being affected by remote work?
2. Are there specific industries or job roles where the impact is more pronounced?
3. How do factors like technology infrastructure and work-life balance play a role?
Second Refinement
“What factors contribute to variations in employee productivity during remote work arrangements amidst the COVID-19 pandemic across different industries and job roles?”
Third Refinement (Final Version)
“To what extent do technology infrastructure, communication tools, and work-life balance influence the productivity of knowledge workers in the software development and marketing industries during remote work arrangements enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic?”
This refined problem statement narrows down the focus to specific factors (technology infrastructure, communication tools, work-life balance) and target industries (software development and marketing), providing a clear direction for research and analysis in addressing the impact of remote work on employee productivity in the context of the current pandemic.
Read Also : Importance of Research
Conclusion to Research Problem
The journey of a research problem starts with identification, followed by literature review and formulation of research questions. Designing methodology, data collection, analysis, and interpretation lead to conclusions. Communication of findings contributes to knowledge. It’s iterative, aiming to solve problems and advance understanding within practical and ethical constraints.