RESEARCH PROBLEM

RESEARCH PROBLEM

1. What is that?

   • A research problem is a lack of in existing knowledge or a real deaafio that an investigator seeks to address
     • Identifying and addressing research problems drives scientific advancement and improves critical skills

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF A RESEARCH PROBLEM

   • NOVEL
     • A research problem must introduce a new perspective and offer something new to existing knowledge
       • With general ideas and addressing questions or questions
     • SIGNIFICANT
       • It must be relevant in terms of its potential impact on a particular phenomenon
         • This is relevant to the field of study and aimed at filling a knowledge gap
       • FEASIBLE
         • CLEAR AND SPECIFIC
           • It should be easily comprehensible, without confusion, focused on a specific aspect of the subject and differentiated from the broader context
           • ROOTED IN EVIDENCE
             • It should be supported by reliable evidence and data, discarding unverifiable information and considering ethical guidelines to protect the welfare and rights of the individuals or groups involved
         • It should be possible to investigate within the available resources time and experience, allowing the formulation of hypothesis and the design of research methodologies

3. WHAT IS A RESEARCH PROBLEM?

   • TYPES OF RESEARCH PROBLEMS
     • THEORETICAL RESEARCH PROBLEMS
       • Focus on conceptual and intellectual research to advance understanding of concepts and theories in different disciplines
         • Example: Theoretical framework to justify the use of AI and learning systems
       • APPLIED RESEARCH PROBLEMS
         • Focus on solving real-world practical challenges and generating solutions to improve society, technology, health, and the environment
         • ACTION RESEARCH PROBLEMS
           • Seeks to generate positive changes in specific contexts by engaging stakeholders, implementing interventions and evaluating results in a collaborative manner
             • Collaborating with a nonprofit organization to evaluate the effectiveness of their programs aimed at providing job training for underserved populations.
   • A research problem is an important question that guides all research
     • Define what you’re trying to figure out and how you’re going to do it

4. HOW TO DEFINE A RESEARCH PROBLEM

   • LOOK FOR A BROAD PROBLEM AREA
     • Identify a wide and unexplored problem area
     • LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROBLEM
       • Thoroughly investigate problems, rely on proven evidence and data, consulting researchers relevant to the field
       • IDENTIFY THE RELEVANT VARIABLES AND HOW THEY ARE RELATED
         • Consider the key variables for the study and their relevance to answer the research question
   • THINK OF PRACTICAL ASPECTS
     • Make sure your study is feasible in terms of time and resources, adjust your research problem according to feedback and make sure it is manageable and specific
     • FORMULATE THE PROBLEM STATEMENT
       • Write a brief summary of the problem that describes the issue specifically, its importance and why it requires more research
       • STICK TO PLANS, BUT BE FLEXIBLE
         • When defining the problem, plan ahead but keep control over your budget and schedule. Be sure to consider all the possibilities and be open to adjusting the problem and asking if necessary.