Measuring the Scope of the Research Question

Full Answer Section

     

3. Refining the Problem into a Research Question:

A good research question is:

• Specific: It focuses on a particular aspect of the broader problem.
• Feasible: It can be realistically investigated within the time and resources available.
• Clear: It is unambiguous and easy to understand.

Here's an example: Problem: There seems to be a high dropout rate among students in online courses. Refined Research Question: What factors contribute to student dropout rates in introductory-level online science courses at community colleges?

4. Defining Parameters of Investigation:

This clarifies the scope of your research. Consider:

• Population: Who or what will you be studying (e.g., students in online science courses)?
• Variables: What factors will you be examining (e.g., course design, student support services)?
• Methods: How will you collect data (e.g., surveys, interviews, course completion data)?
• Timeline: What is the timeframe for your research?
• Ethical Considerations: Are there any ethical concerns you need to address while conducting your research?

Example Parameters:

• Population: Students enrolled in introductory-level online science courses at a specific community college during the upcoming semester.
• Variables: Course design (instructor-led vs. self-paced), student support services (availability of tutors, online forums), student demographics (age, prior online learning experience).
• Methods: Online survey distributed to all students enrolled in the courses, followed by in-depth interviews with a smaller group of students who dropped out.
• Timeline: Research conducted throughout the semester, with data analysis completed within two months after the semester ends.
• Ethical Considerations: Obtain informed consent from participants, maintain confidentiality of data, and ensure anonymity when reporting results.

By following these steps, you can transform a general problem into a focused research question with well-defined parameters, setting the stage for a successful investigation.  

Sample Answer

   

Here's a breakdown of how to define a research question and parameters of investigation after identifying a problem:

1. Identifying the Problem:

The first step is to clearly define the issue you want to investigate. This could be something you've observed in your daily life, work environment, or academic studies.

2. Exploring the Problem:

Once you have a general idea of the problem, delve deeper. Ask yourself questions like:

• Why is this a problem?
• Who or what is affected by this problem?
• What are the current solutions or approaches to this problem?
• Are there any gaps in knowledge or understanding about this problem?