Research work forms a sphere. This is because it commences with a problem and terminates with an amicable solution to the problem. In real sense, identification of a worthy research problem is considered the most difficult task in research work. The process of identifying a problem statement requires innovation and creativity rather than a mechanical structured process. The problem statement stipulates the objectives of thee research in summary. Therefore, the problem statement formulates the axis within which the research revolves. A research problem is a situation that triggers a researcher to feel obliged to carry out a study. There are various sources of research problems. One can identify a problem through his or her own experience or in the course of reading. Scientific literature act as a source research problems as a reader is usually interested in the areas not covered by a researcher. Shortcomings in theories can also be researched, hence, a source of research problem. Therefore, a study normally aims at solving existing problems, clarifying existing theories, and correcting faulty methodologies. This paper talks about what constitutes a good problem statement, the components of a well-informed statement of research problem, and what constitutes a reasonable theoretical framework for the need of the study.
A perfectly designed problem statement obviously leads to the statement of objectives, hypothesis, and selection of the best methodology for measuring the variables. Therefore, it is extremely significant for a researcher to define the problem statement. Otherwise, confusion overtakes the whole research process. People believe that things should be in a particular manner. A deviation from expected results as compared to the reality is a perceived problem. One feels uncomfortable with the prevailing conditions and is thus triggered to launch an investigation of the causes of discrepancy. Nevertheless, as much as problems form the main driving force to carry out a study, not all problems require investigation. A good researchable problem fulfils some conditions. Firstly, there should be a deviation from what has happened and what ought to happen. In other words, a discrepancy exists between expected results and achieved results. Secondly, an individual is in a position to question the reasons leading to the discrepancies. Thirdly, there is a need to give at least two possible answers for to the formulated questions. This is extremely significant because if a researcher cannot give at least two possible answers to the problems, then a research condition does not exist at all.
In addition, to validate whether a problem is researchable, certain characteristics are fulfilled. Firstly, it is essential to verify whether a problem still exists. It is rather useless to investigate a problem that once existed but is no longer there. This is because the problem could have either been solved. All in all, a researcher needs to look for solution to current social, cultural, economic or political issues. Secondly, a question of how many people are adversely affected by the problem is to be answered before considering a problem researchable. Therefore, one needs to determine the spread of a problem before looking for possible solutions. A problem is considered researchable if it adversely affects many people. Otherwise, there is no need to investigate an issue that affects a few individuals. This is significant because resources ranging from human resource, time, and money are required in carrying out a study. Resources are scarce and should be used with a lot of caution. It is then necessary to employ resources only when there is dire need. Thirdly, a question of whether key groups of individuals such as kids, the aged or mothers are affected is to be assessed. A good researchable problem answers this question. Fourthly, a researchable problem draws the attention of different groups of people. A researcher assesses whether other groups such as government, non-governmental organizations, and the society at large is concerned about the prevailing conditions. This is necessary as a researchable problem is perceived to affect many people and draws a lot of concern and attention form a large group of people. Fifthly, a good researchable problem relates to broad economic, social or health issues. Researchable problem addresses concerns such as poverty, education, women`s status, income disparity, balance of payment problems, or unemployment. Therefore, a researchable problem is drawn directly from day to day occurrences of events. Lastly, a researchable problem overcomes any ethical problems. Most people are aware of their freedoms and rights. It is necessary for a researcher to obey these rights in the course of a study. A researcher is expected to tackle problems that they are well equipped to handle. As such, researchable problems lie within one’s level of expertise.
A properly articulated problem statement is the centrepiece for a doable research. Therefore, researchers understands the essence of developing a viable and well-articulated of a worthy research problem. In addition, researchers appreciate the fact that a well-supported problem statement increases the chances for realizing meaningful results. A well informed problem statement has various components. Firstly, a problem statement contains the problem that is addressed in research. It is essential to recall that a problem is basically something that is not happening as per the expectations while stating a well-informed statement of research problem. Secondly, a well-informed statement of research problem describes the impacts of a problem. This is to be stated in not more than two sentences. The problem statement needs not to only explicitly describe where and when the problem is evident but needs to also describe how researchers or people comprehend the negative impacts of the problem. Thirdly, a well-informed statement of research problem needs to explain the basis for the problem. It is significant to explicitly explain the basis upon which the problem is formulated. This implies that the problem statement informs readers the possible causes of the underlying problem.
No researcher can explore a problem from all perspectives at a go. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate a reasonable theoretical framework that explicitly stipulates a logical sequence and structure through which problems can be articulated. A theoretical framework enhances focus and clarity on the underlying problem. A reasonable theoretical framework has numerous advantages. Firstly, a problem can be well understood and articulated through the theoretical framework. This is because through additional information about a problem are explained through the theoretical framework. The known information also takes on excessive form and clarity. Secondly, a reasonable framework enhances focus on the proceeding steps in carrying out the proposal. Researchers are able to provide a summary of what a study is about in a reasonable research framework. Thirdly, a reasonable research framework connects the researcher to the available knowledge. The components of a reasonable theoretical framework include a description of the main variables that lie within the problem to be investigated. In short, a reasonable theoretical framework presents an elementary design of a given study.
In summary, this paper talks about what constitutes a researchable problem, the components of a well-informed statement of research problem and the components a reasonable theoretical framework. Identifying a worthy research problem is the most difficult task in research. This is because a lot of innovation and creativity is required. All in all, the constituents of a researchable problem includes a discrepancy from the what happens on a daily basis, adverse impact on a large group of people, draws attention from many people, and is within a researcher’s area of specialization. In addition, a researchable problem affects a researcher or people economically, socially, politically, or culturally. It is also ethical to conduct a review of the problem. On the other hand, a well-informed statement of research problem is essential as it forms the centrepiece for determining a doable study. As such, a well-informed problem statement contains the questions of how, who, where, what, and when. In other words, a well-informed problem statement contains the problem that is being addressed. In addition, it describes the impacts of the problem. It also explains explicitly the basis upon which the problem is based. Lastly, this paper discusses about what constitutes a reasonable theoretical framework. The components of a reasonable theoretical framework include a description of the main variables that lie within the problem to be investigated. In short, a reasonable theoretical framework presents an elementary design of a given study.
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