1. How is a research problem developed? A research problem is developed by (1) studying general literature, (2) dividing literature into several sub-themes, (3) narrowing that list down to a single theme, and (4) close with a statement or question.

2. What are the sources of research problems? Some sources of research problems are (1) confirming common sense, (2) checking observations (has some type of phenomenon or trend been observed), (3) questioning prevailing practices (especially if the practices are showing very good results), (4) relying on a personal counseling experience, (5) deducting from theory, and (6) using related literature to get an idea of what the researcher wants to pursue.

From related literature, the researcher should: (1) follow the next logical step, (2) adapt procedures to view the problem, (3) consider the need to replicate research (is more study needed to confirm a previous study), (4) test findings on other cultures, and (5) study inconsistencies and contradictions.

3. What are the types of research questions? The types of research questions are: (1) what is the nature of a certain variable, concept, or idea, (2) what is the relationship between/among various variables, concepts, or ideas, and (3) what is the effect of A on B. All research should ask one of the above three questions. Question 3 is many times the most significant. However, a descriptive research usually asks the first question.

4. What criteria are used to evaluate research problems? The criteria used for evaluating research problems are (1) personal considerations, (2) social considerations, and (3) technical considerations.

Some personal considerations are (1) is the problem suitable for me, (2) am I qualified to collect the data, (3) am I interested in the problem, (4) do I have a point to prove (remember to fight being biased), and (5) is the problem feasible (time and financial resources for researching the problem and access to the data are factors.

Some social considerations include (1) how will my research be received by others, (2) is it relevant and significant, and (3) will it lead to further research.

Some technical considerations are (1) is the problem researchable (research cannot answer questions about values and morals, intangible ideas, or philosophical and ethical questions), and (2) is there a relationship to previous research (do not duplicate even unintentionally unless the new research involves a minor change to the old research for the purpose of replicating the earlier work).

				Tom of Bethany

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