This module discusses one of the most important aspects of research in any field. It covers the nature of the problem, sources of problem, evaluation of the problem and statement of the problem.
Nature of the problem
A research problem is a gap in knowledge about a phenomenon that one wishes to describe or an event that one attempts to explain or find a solution. The research problem is often phrased as a question that needs to be answered. The process of problem identification involves refining and narrowing the topic of interest
Sources of problem
The first question most students ask is “How do I find a research problem?”
Although there are no set rules for locating a problem, certain suggestions have been found to be helpful. Three important sources of problems are experience, deductions from theory and related literature.
Everyday experience is a useful source of a research problem. Most of the research ideas developed by researchers tend to come from their personal experiences. For instance, a researcher with an interest in human resource development encounters a problem with regard to the effectiveness of a training program conducted in his or her organization. This serves as a source of problem for investigation.
The deduction that can be made from various theories with which the researcher is familiar. This provides an excellent source of problem. There are learning theories, personality theories, sociological theories, psychological theories, theories of social development and many others, whose validity, scope and practicality might be justifiable tested n social situations. Similarly, in the field of training, learning theories could be tested in training situations and this serves as a useful starting point for research.
Another valuable source of a research problem is the literature in one’s own area of interest. In reading about previous research, we are exposed to gaps in knowledge or research problems that need further attention. These are often suggested by previous researchers.
Evaluation of the problem
In the process of evaluating the significance of the problem, there are certain criteria which should be considered. A research problem should be one whose solution will make a contribution to the body of knowledge in a particular field. It should be one that will lead to a new problem and to enhance further research. Another criteria is that the problem must be one that is researchable. Also, the problem must be suitable for the particular researcher, in terms of his/her interest (i.e. researcher’s knowledge, feasibility of doing the research, and is achievable within the allotted time).
Statement of the problem
A good statement of problem must clarify exactly what is to be determined or sought and restrict the scope of the study to a specific question. Novice researchers often have a general idea of the problem, but have trouble formulating it as a workable research question. In stating the problem, the researcher must strive for a balance between generality and specificity. The problem must not be so narrow that it becomes trivial and meaningless. One wants a problem that is broad enough to be significant yet specific enough to be feasible in one’s particular situation.
A problem should be stated in such a way that research into the question is possible. Avoid philosophical issues, as well as value or judgmental question that cannot be answered by scientific investigation. The development of a workable problem is an evolutionary process involving many attempts to sharpen concepts, defines operation, and consider ways of collecting data.
Identifying the population and variables
A good strategy for shaping a felt problem into a researchable problem is to think it in terms of population and variables. Population refers to those people about whom one wishes to investigate the research problem.
The specific nature of the population depends on the purpose of the investigation. For instance, if the investigation is on the digital divide among FELDA settlers/citizens in rural areas in Malaysia, therefore, the population of the study will be all FELDA settlers/citizens in rural areas in Malaysia.
In stating the problem, one has to identify the variables (characteristics or attributes) of the population that one wishes to study. Examples of variables include the effective the training program, the training design, the training methodology, teaching and learning technologies, etc.
Variables can be classified into dependent and independent variables. Depending on the nature of the study, for example in the causal relationship study, there are dependent and in dependent variables. On the other hand, an exploratory study, describing the approach used in the extension delivery system, does not have dependent and independent variables.
REFERENCES
Aminah Ahmad & Maimunah Ismail (2006) Research method and design. Kuala Lumpur: Pusat Pendidikan Luar, University Putra Malaysia.
Ary D. Jacobs, L. C. & Razavieh, A. (1990). Introduction to research in education. (4th ed). Forth Worth: Rinehart and Winston, Inc.
Babbie, E. (2005). The practice of social research. Belmont: Wadsworth, Publishing Co.
Bryman, A., & Bell, E. (2003). Business research methods. (2nd ed). New York: Oxford University Press.
Mohd. Majid Konting (1990). Kaedah penyelidikan Pendidikan. Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Merriam, S. B. (1988). Case study research in education: a qualitative approach. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass
