Mary the Queen College (Pampanga), Inc.

JASA, San Matias, Guagua, Pampanga

College of Accountancy
Subject Code: Module No./Title: 5 - Formulate the
Research Problem
Subject Description: Accounting Research Methods Period of Coverage: Week 6

Introduction: Determination of the research problem of the study

Objectives:

1. to develop and articulate research problem that is related to the purpose of the study

Content:

A research problem is a definite or clear expression (statement) about an area of concern, a condition to
be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated or a troubling question that exists in scholarly literature
in theory or within existing practice that points to a need for meaningful understanding or deliberate
investigation.

The purpose of a problem statement is to:

1. Introduce the reader to the importance of the topic being studied. The reader is oriented
to the significance of the study.
2. Anchors the research questions, hypotheses, or assumptions to follow. It offers a concise
statement about the purpose of your paper.
3. Place the framework into a particular context that defines the parameters of what is to be
investigated.
4. Provide the framework for reporting the results and indicate what is probably necessary
to conduct the study and explain how the findings will present this information.

In addition, research problem is an area of conflict, concern or controversy (a gap between what is
wanted and what is observed) include the most relevant reference that support the claim.

Why the research problem is important:

- It establishes the importance of the topic.

- It creates the reader’s interest.
- It focuses the reader’s attention on how the study will add to the literature.
Evaluation: Group discussion and activity

References: www.education.nova.edu/www.libguides.usc.edu

Next Lesson: Formulate the Hypotheses

Prepared by: Maria Corazon S. Checked by: William I. Asenci, CPA Approved by: Lanie M. Galvan,
Guintu CPA MBA - BSA MBA, Dean College of Accountancy PhD (VPAA)