A research question is a specific, focused, and clearly defined question that a researcher seeks to answer through systematic investigation and study. It serves as the foundation for research projects and guides the direction of the study, shaping the methodology and analysis. A well-formulated research question is typically designed to prompt critical thinking and exploration of a topic, rather than simply seeking a concrete answer.
Key characteristics of a good research question include:
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Clarity and Precision: The question should be clear and unambiguous, making it easy to understand and investigate.
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Researchable: It should be possible to answer the question through empirical evidence, observation, or experimentation.
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Focused: The question should be narrow enough to allow for in-depth exploration while being broad enough to allow for relevant investigation and discussion.
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Significance: It should address a gap in existing knowledge or contribute to a larger body of research, highlighting its importance or relevance to a particular field or issue.
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Feasibility: The researcher should be able to gather the necessary data and resources to answer the question within a reasonable timeframe.
In essence, a research question initiates a process of inquiry, encouraging the researcher to explore various aspects of a topic, make inferences based on gathered data, and ultimately contribute to a deeper understanding of an issue or phenomenon. It is the starting point for investigations that lead to new insights and knowledge.