RESEARCH PROBLEM: CRITERIA AND CHARACTERISTICS

Md. Zakiul Alam

Roll: ZH013

BSS (Hons)4th Semester

Dept. Of Population Sciences

University of Dhaka

WHAT IS A RESEARCH PROBLEM?

In the context of selection of a research problem it is essential to understand what is a problem and its components.

A research problem is one which may arise in practice or theory, which needs some solution by way of investigation.

The next question that comes up is – are all problems researchable?

ARE ALL PROBLEMS RESEARCHABLE?

Is daily star the most read newspaper?Is a Jackson Pollock painting beautiful or dreadful?Do supernatural entities intervene in human affairs?

Not all human behavior can be guided by scientific knowledge.

RESEARCH PROBLEMS SHOULD :

Not be too vague or too narrowHave an overview of the subjectMake a general concept more specific by showing its

dimensions, aspects, factors, components or indicators.

The important thing is that the finished product, as a piece of research ,shows logical conclusions across the different levels of abstraction.

RESEARCH PROBLEMS SHOULD :

Problems that do not have empirical ground are do not fulfill the criteria of a research problem. Have an overview of the subject

Reasons behind………..1. individual preference,2. beliefs, 3. traditions, 4. customs 5. and values

cannot be identified by research problems.

THE ANSWERS TO FOUR IMPORTANT QUESTIONS UNDERPIN THE

FRAMEWORK FOR ANY RESEARCH PROBLEM

What are you going to do?The title and aim of the research should answer this.

• Elaboration on the purpose and outcome is also needed.

Clarity is essential

Why are you going to do it?this answer should explain why the research is

necessary.Also be able to state how the outcomes of the

research should provide the solutions to the problems revealed.

Explain the severity of the problem

How are you going to do it?A plan of action laid out to show how the problem is to

be investigated.What methodology was undertaken.How the information was analyzed.

When are you going to do it?Programming your time.

By considering all these issues a problem will be researchable!

Four important questions contd.

Thank You