What is the research question?

As an expert in the field of research methodology, I understand that crafting a research question is a critical step in the scientific process. It is the question that will drive the entire research project, from the initial literature review to the final conclusions. A well-constructed research question is clear, focused, and feasible, and it should ideally be answerable within the scope of the project's resources and time constraints.

Step 1: Crafting the Research Question

To begin with, a research question should be developed with the following considerations in mind:


1. Clarity: The question must be clear and unambiguous. It should be phrased in a way that leaves no room for misinterpretation.


2. Specificity: It should be specific enough to guide the research process but not so narrow that it limits the scope of the study.


3. Feasibility: The question should be answerable with the resources available, including time, money, and access to data or subjects.


4. Originality: The research question should contribute new knowledge or a new perspective to the field.


5. Relevance: It should address a current issue or gap in the existing literature.


6. Significance: The question should be significant to the field of study and have implications for theory, policy, or practice.

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Researchable: The question should be something that can be investigated empirically or theoretically.

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Hypothesis-Driven: Ideally, the research question should lead to the formulation of a hypothesis that can be tested.

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Ethical Considerations: The question should be framed in a way that respects ethical standards and does not infringe on the rights or welfare of individuals or groups.

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Scope: The question should be broad enough to allow for a comprehensive investigation but not so broad that it becomes unmanageable.

Developing the Question

The development of a research question often starts with a general interest or curiosity about a particular topic. This interest is then refined into a more specific question through a literature review, which helps identify gaps in current knowledge. The researcher must then decide on the focus of the study, which will be guided by the research question.

Formulating the Question

Once the focus is determined, the researcher can begin to formulate the question. This involves deciding on the type of question (descriptive, analytical, or evaluative) and the specific variables or factors to be examined. The question should be structured in a way that allows for a clear and direct answer.

Refining the Question

After the initial formulation, the question must be refined. This involves checking for clarity, specificity, and feasibility. It may also involve consulting with peers or mentors to ensure that the question is well-formed and appropriate for the intended research.

Testing the Question

Before finalizing the research question, it's important to test it. This can involve discussing it with colleagues, running a small-scale pilot study, or even conducting a preliminary literature review to ensure that the question is both answerable and original.

Step 2:

A research question is the fundamental core of a research project, study, or review of literature. It focuses the study, determines the methodology, and guides all stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting. ... Questions seeking answers.