SCS2150 research questions
- 1. How to Formulate a Research Question SCS - 2150
- 2. Research Question The research question is one of the most important aspect of a study! It is essential for you to formulate a good research question since it will have an impact on your project as a whole. The following slides will help you formulate or specify your research question. You are more than welcome to contact us if you want to make sure that your research question is appropriate.
- 3. Where to start? 1. Choose a topic that interests you. 2. Read scientific articles about your topic from the online database of the library (for help see “how to” videos on using the library and Google Scholar) 3. Find an aspect of your topic of interest that is not covered by the literature. 4. Formulate a research question that tries to cover this “gap” in the literature.
- 4. Your question must: • Be linked to the literature review presented in your project • Be clear and precise - the reader must understand the specific intent of the study by reading the research question. Very important: study 1 = 1 research question (not more!) • Demonstrate the goal of the study; either to explore, explain, describe or evaluate. • Can be answered with facts and data, not with opinions.
- 5. A good research question… • Can have sub-questions BUT must have only ONE main question. • Is very specific (indicates the population of interest, geographical factors, etc.) • Important concepts should be well defined so that the reader understands exactly the meaning of the terms used. • Open questions are usually easier to develop.