Notes on identifying and selecting a research problem for UGC NET Paper 1 Research Aptitude, in 3 short sub-topics. Each one gives the concept, the facts to memorise and the traps examiners set.
3 sub-topics
7 memory points
3 exam-trap notes
2 min read
Topic 9 of 29
What this topic covers
3 sub-topics, in the order to study them. Tap one to jump to it.
Identifying the problem is the first and most important step because every later decision depends on it; a problem well stated is half solved. Problems arise from personal experience and observation, gaps and recommendations in the literature, theories that need testing, practical or policy needs, discussions with supervisors and experts, and new technologies. A suitable problem is researchable (it can be investigated with data), significant and original, feasible in time, money, access and skill, interesting to the researcher, ethical and clearly delimited. Topics that are too broad cannot be completed; topics that are too narrow lack significance. The usual movement is from a general area to a narrowed, specific problem.
Memorise
Sources: experience, literature gaps, theory, previous recommendations, experts, social needs.
3A.2Statement of the Problem, Objectives and Variables#
Concept
The problem statement says what is to be studied in clear, specific and researchable terms, naming the variables, the population and the relationship of interest. It usually moves from background to gap to purpose and may be written as a question or a declarative sentence. Objectives convert the problem into achievable aims, begin with action verbs (to examine, to compare, to determine) and are often written to be specific, measurable and realistic. Research questions or hypotheses then follow from the objectives. Concepts in the statement must be operationalised so that they can be measured.
Memorise
Good statement: clear, specific, researchable, variables named.
Objectives: action verbs, measurable, linked to the problem.
Analyse / traps
Objectives describe what the study will do; hypotheses predict what the study will find.
Delimitations are the boundaries the researcher deliberately sets on the study, such as the geographical area, population, time period and variables included; they are choices within the researcher’s control. Limitations are weaknesses or constraints that the researcher cannot fully control, such as small sample size, limited time, imperfect tools, self-report bias and restricted generalisability. Assumptions are things taken to be true without proof. Stating all three honestly lets readers judge how far the findings apply.
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