CHAPTER 2: RESEARCH PROBLEM AND OBJECTIVES

ü  The Research Problem

5 factors to consider to determine that a problem is researchable or not.

1.      The problem existing in the locality or country but no known solution to the problem.

2.      The solution can be answered by using statistical methods and techniques.

3.      There are probable solutions but they are not yet tested.

4.      The occurrence of phenomena requires scientific investigation to arrive at precise solution.

5.      Serious needs/problems of the people where it demands research.

ü  Characteristics of a Research Problem

·         Specific. The problem should be specifically tested.

·         Measurable. It is easy to measure by using research instruments, apparatus or equipment.

·         Achievable. The data are achievable using correct statistical tools to arrive at precise results.

·         Realistic. Real results are attained because they are gathered scientifically and not manipulated or maneuvered.

·         Time-bound. Time frame is required in every activity because the shorter completion of the activity, the better.

ü  Sources of Research Problem

1.      Specialization of the researcher.

2.      Current and past researches.

3.      Recommendations from theses, dissertations, and research journals.

4.      Original and creative ideas of the researcher based on the problems met in the locality and country.

ü  Criteria of a Good Research Problem

1.      Interesting. An interesting research problem attracts the attention of the researcher and other people to conduct the research project even without incentive or research grant at all.

2.      Innovative. Through replicability in conducting research is allowed, it is advisable that a research problem is something novel, original, and unique to attract the attention of the people and contribute to the economic development of the country.

3.      Cost-effective. A good research problem should be economical and effective in solving the needs and problems of the society; it should also augment socioeconomic and health conditions of the people and many others.

4.      Relevant to the needs and problems of the people. Researchers must keep in mind that they conduct research not for the personal aggrandizement but to solve the needs and problems of the people.

5.      Relevant to government’s thrusts. A research problem must respond to the government’s thrusts.

6.      Measurable and time-bound.

ü  Statement of Research Problem/Objectives

Research problem and research objectives have the same characteristics but they differ in form because the former is stated in interrogative or question form and the latter, in declarative form.

ü  The Hypotheses

Hypothesis – is defined as a wise guess that is formulated and temporarily adopted to explain the observed facts covered by the study.

Types of Hypothesis

·         Null Hypothesis – is a denial of an existence of a trait, characteristic, quality, value, correlation or difference of the result.

·         Alternative Hypothesis – is an affirmation of the existence of the observed phenomenon.

ü  Theoretical Framework

-          shapes the justification of the research problem/research objectives in order to provide the legal basis for defining its parameters.

ü  Conceptual Framework

-          presents specific and well-defined concepts which are called constructs.

ü  Assumptions

-          are presumed to be true statements of facts related to the research problem.

ü  Significance of the Study

-          Is presented comprehensively to convince the screening committee the importance of the study.

ü  Scope and Limitations of the Study

-          This includes the coverage of the study area, the subjects, the research apparatus, equipment or instrument, the research issues and concerns, the duration of the study, and the constraints that have direct bearing on the result of the study.

ü  Definition of Terms

1.      Conceptual Definition – The definition are based on concepts or hypothetic ones which are usually taken from a dictionary, encyclopedia and published journals.

2.      Operational Definition – The definition of terms are based on observable characteristics and how it is used in the study.