Formulating a research problem is a critical step in conducting social research.
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A research problem is a specific issue or question that the researcher seeks to address through their study. To formulate a research problem, the following steps can be followed:
- Identify a broad area of interest: This could be a field of study, a population of interest, or a social issue that you wish to investigate.
- Conduct a literature review: This involves reviewing existing research on the topic to identify gaps in knowledge or areas that require further investigation.
- Narrow down the focus: Based on the literature review, identify a specific aspect of the broad area of interest that you wish to investigate.
- Identify the research question: The research question should be specific, clear, and answerable through empirical research.
- Define the research problem: The research problem is a statement that summarizes the research question and outlines the purpose of the study.
Example 1: Research problem in rural development
Broad area of interest: Rural development
Literature review: Reviewing existing research on rural development, you may find that there is a gap in knowledge regarding the impact of rural electrification on economic development in rural areas.
Narrow down the focus: Focus specifically on the impact of rural electrification on economic development in rural areas.
Research question: What is the impact of rural electrification on economic development in rural areas?
Research problem: The research problem is to investigate the impact of rural electrification on economic development in rural areas.
Example 2: Research problem in rural development
Broad area of interest: Rural development
Literature review: Reviewing existing research on rural development, you may find that there is a gap in knowledge regarding the role of microfinance in poverty reduction in rural areas.
Narrow down the focus: Focus specifically on the role of microfinance in poverty reduction in rural areas.
Research question: What is the role of microfinance in poverty reduction in rural areas?
Research problem: The research problem is to investigate the role of microfinance in poverty reduction in rural areas.
In summary, to formulate a research problem in the area of rural development, one must identify a broad area of interest, conduct a literature review, narrow down the focus, identify the research question, and define the research problem.