Clearly, give the sources of research problem. How a problem is identified? Enumerate the criteria for the selection of a problem.

Question

Explain why it is necessary to define a problem and delimiting a problem?
How is a problem stated? Describe the various ways of defining a problem.
Discuss characteristics of good problem and criteria for evaluating a problem.
In the area of your interest, propose a research problem and evaluate it against the stated criteria. ( From Yogesh Kumar Singh book ( Foundamental of Research )

Answer 1

Sources of Research Problem

1. Personal Experience: Observations and experiences that raise questions can be a significant source of research problems.

2. Literature Review: Gaps, inconsistencies, or outdated findings in existing research can highlight areas needing further exploration.

3. Social Issues: Current events, trends, or societal challenges can inform problems that require investigation.

4. Theoretical Frameworks: Existing theories may reveal limitations or opportunities for further development.

5. Dialogue with Peers and Experts: Conversations with colleagues and mentors can stimulate ideas and insights into potential research problems.

6. Practical Needs: Problems faced in professional practice can inspire inquiries seeking effective solutions.

Identifying a Research Problem

A problem is identified by observing relevant phenomena, recognizing issues that need solutions, or noticing something that has not been sufficiently addressed in prior studies. Researchers often conduct preliminary research, engage in discussions, and critically review literature to clarify their focus.

Criteria for Selection of a Research Problem

1. Relevance: The problem should have significance to the field of study or community.

2. Feasibility: It should be manageable within the constraints of time, resources, and researcher capabilities.

3. Interest: The researcher should have a genuine interest in the problem to sustain motivation over time.

4. Originality: It should contribute new knowledge or perspectives rather than reiterating existing insights.

5. Ethical Considerations: The research should comply with ethical standards, regarding respect for participants and implications of findings.

Importance of Defining and Delimiting a Problem

• Focus: Defining the problem helps to narrow down the research scope, enhancing clarity and focus during the investigation.

• Guidance: It provides direction on research questions, hypotheses, and methodology.

• Manageability: Delimiting a problem ensures that the scope is realistic, preventing the researcher from becoming overwhelmed.

• Clarity: A well-defined problem allows for clearer communication of the research purpose to others.

Stating a Research Problem

A research problem can be stated in several ways, including:

1. Research Question: Formulating a clear, concise question that the research aims to answer.

2. Hypothesis: Presenting a testable statement predicting a relationship or outcome.

3. Problem Statement: Outlining the issue in a descriptive manner, highlighting its importance and implications.

Characteristics of a Good Problem and Criteria for Evaluation

1. Clarity: It should be clearly defined without ambiguity.

2. Specificity: Problems should be narrowly focused to facilitate actionable insights.

3. Researchability: A good problem can be investigated through empirical methods.

4. Relevance: It should matter to the field and contribute to the body of knowledge.

5. Simplicity: The complexity of the problem should be manageable, not overly convoluted.

6. Novelty: A good research problem adds fresh insights to existing knowledge.

Example of a Proposed Research Problem

Research Area: The Impact of Remote Work on Employee Well-being

Proposed Problem: "How does remote work influence the mental health and job satisfaction of employees in the tech industry?"

Evaluation Against Stated Criteria:

1. Relevance: This issue is pertinent due to the recent shift towards remote work prompted by global events.

2. Feasibility: Accessible data sources such as surveys and interviews could be utilized.

3. Interest: As someone invested in workplace psychology, this topic aligns with my interests.

4. Originality: While remote work is a hot topic, exploring its specific impacts on mental health within a certain industry is novel.

5. Ethical Considerations: The study would require informed consent and should respect participants' privacy.

Conclusion

Defining and properly framing a research problem is critical for successful inquiry. A well-articulated problem underpins the significance of the research and guides the methodologies used to explore it.