The Research Process

What is Research Problem?

A problem is anything which gives a person a feeling of discomfort. A problem could be
a state of affairs that needs to be changed or anything that is not working as expected.
Problems could be conditions they want to improve, difficulties they want to eliminate, questions
for which they want answers, or information gaps they wish to fill, or theories they wish to
validate.
A research problem could also be an issue that should be settled. It may be a question
about the unknown characteristics of a population or about factors that explain the presence or
occurrence of a phenomenon.

Identifying a Research Problem

In doing research, the first thing a researcher does is identify and clearly define the
problem to be studied. If the researcher cannot pinpoint a problem, he/she cannot expect others
to understand what problems he want to solve.
Initially, a researcher problems is stated in a form of a question, which serves as the focus
of the investigation.
Example
1. What problems do children of separated parents encounter and how do the children cope with
these problems?
2. What goes on in a government office in a typical week? Or how do government employees
spend a typical day in the office?
While a problem is the initiating force of research , not all problems require research. A
potential researchable problem exists when the following conditions are present (Fisher, et. Al.,
1991) :
A. There is a perceived discrepancy between what is and what should be.
B. There are two or more plausible reasons for the discrepancy.
Example of a Non-Researchable Problem
Situation:
Despite free tuition, many high school students in a high school in Province X have dropped out.
Records show that 50% of the students have already dropped out before the middle of the school
year (What is)
What should be:
Students are expected to finish high school because it is free. They should not drop out (What
should be). On the contrary, a big number of students dropped out (Discrepancy)
Research Questions:
Why do students dropped out? What factors contribute to the high drop out rate?
Possible Answer: Fear of being caught in crossfire between military and rebel groups.
Comment:
There have been violent encounters between the military and rebel groups and many civilians
have been caught in cross fire. It seems clear that the dropping out of the students is due to the
armed encounters in the area. If they go to school, they might die, so parents keep them out of
school until the peace and order situation in the area returns to normal.

A possible research situation exists when the existing condition (what is) is different from what
is expected (what should be), and there are two or more plausible (reasonable) causes of the
discrepancy between what is and what should be.
Example of a Researchable Problem
Possible Answer: There are many possible reasons why students drop out. Among the possible
reasons are: financial difficulties, far distance of students’ houses from school, students’ lack of
interest to study, and poor health.
Comments:
Since there are a number of possible reasons for the dropping out of students despite free tuition,
the problem is researchable. Research can determine the existence and extent of relationship
between the identified possible factors and the students’ decision to drop out of school or to stay.
Furthermore, research can determine the relative contribution of each factor in the students’
decision to drop out.
Defining the Research Problem
Explains the existence and seriousness of the problem. The definition shows evidences that prove
the problem really exists, that it is serious and /or widespread. It also identifies the elements of a
broader problem that are to be the focus o the research activities.
The problem definition must show that the problem needs serious attention because many
people are or will be affected by it. In defining a research problem, the following questions are
usually answered;
1. Does the problem really exist? What are the evidences of the problem`s existence?
2. is the problem serious? Who and how may are affected by it?
3. what places are affected? How widespread is it?
4. How often does the problem occur?
In defining the research problem, it is important for the researcher to present a valid
justification for the conduct of the study. The problem definition must show that answers to the
research questions are not yet clear or available. To do so, the definition should present relevant
data from service statistics and related literature.

Things to Remember When Defining a Research Problem

1. First review relevant literature and previous studies on the problem,
2. Examine current available data/statistics,
3. Seek educated opinions from persons concerned with the problem.
4. Determine the probable reasons for the existence of the problem from social, economic, or
other theories that may explain the existence of the problem and the possible connection between
the problem and other factors.
A careful review of existing information or studies on a problem can also help the investigation
determine:
1. what answers or solution have been found/tried in the past to solve the problem and how
successful they were, and
2. what questions still remain unanswered and what aspects of the problem need to studied
further.

Characteristics of a Good Researcher Problem

A research problem should posses four essential characteristics. It must be relevant, feasible,
clear, and ethical. (fraenkel and Walen, 1996).
1. A research problem must be relevant.
The problem must be timely and relevant. It must be of interest to the one investigating it.
It should yield answers that will contribute to knowledge and development. In essence, the
problem should be worth investigating and worth the time, money and effort to be spent on it.
To determine whether whether a possible research problem is relevant or not, one should
consider the following question:
a. Will answer to the research question/s help advance knowledge?
b. Can answers to the research question/s help in Improving practices/behavior/ performance?
c. Will answers to the research problem improve human conditions?
The researcher problem is relevant if the answer to the three questions above are all positive.
An Example of a Relevant Problem.
Research Problem : “The effect of Computer-assisted instruction on the Students’ Achievement
in Mathematics”
1. Will the answer to the research question help advance knowledge?
Yes. A finding that shows that computer-assisted instruction significantly improves or does not
improve achievement in mathematics comprises new knowledge.
2. can answers to the research question help in improving practices/behavior/performance?
Yes. Positive findings suggest that teachers must use the computer as an instructional device.
3. Will answer to the research problem improve human conditions?
Yes. If the adoption of computer-assisted instruction leads to improved learning, students will
acquire better skills. With better skills, they will definitely have better chances of getting
employed. Skilled workers are better paid than unskilled ones and more likely will have better
quality of life because with more income they can buy what they need.
2. A researcher problem must be feasible.
A research problem can only be investigated if resources like time, money, and personnel
are available. A research problem may be relevant, but if funds are not available and there are no
skilled researchers or tools for data gathering then it would not be feasible to conduct it.
Researchers must, therefore be sure of the availability of funds and human resources, as well as
appropriate tools/devices needed in the conduct of the study.
An example of a feasible Problem
Researcher problem: “the effect of computer-assisted instruction on students` achievement in
mathematics”
Comment: instruction in the experimental group is computer-assisted, while that in the control
group is not. The teacher in the experimental group can be trained to use the computer in
teaching math. The experiment can be carried out even if only one computer is available in the
classroom. This can be provided by the institution.
An Example of a problem that is not feasible
Research problem: “the effect on achievement of providing each student a microcomputer in
their math class”
Comment: it might be worth knowing if computer-based math instruction can improve students`
achievement in the subject but giving each student a computer would be very costly, moreover, it
may not be afforded by most schools.
3. A research problem must be clear
 The research problem must be clearly stated so that what is being investigated is made
clear. Major variable/s of the study should be measurable. And should be specified in the
problem statement. The use of ambiguous terms must be avoided.
Example of a Problem which is not clear
Research proAblem: “women`s perceptions about sexual harassment”
Comment: This problem is not clear because it does not specify what group of women. Even the
word “perception” is not clear. One may ask, “perception regarding `what of sexual harassment”
Example of a Clear Problem
Research Problem: “attitudes Towards Sexual Harassment of Female Rank and File Bank
Employees in Makati City
Comment: in this research problem, it is clear that what is being examined is attitudes towards
sexual harassment. It is also clear that the study will cover female rank and file bank employees
in Makati city. Although the location of the study need not always be specified , specifying it
helps further clarify the research problem.
4. A research problem must ethical.
The conduct of the study should not pose any danger, embarrassment, hurt or any risk to
the research respondents or subject or any one. Information needed to answer the research
question can be collected without violating the rights of the source/s of information. The
respondent`s privacy must therefore be protected. They should be informed about the purpose of
the study and be given the right to consent or refuse to participate in the study.
Example of Unethical problem
Research problem: “the effect of punishment on the Self-Esteem and academic Performance of
adolescents”

Comment: if an experiment is to be conducted, punishment will be applied to the experimental

group, but withheld from the control group. Even if the result of the study shows that punishment
will improve self-esteem and performance, applying punishment to students for the sake of
research in unethical.
Example of an Ethical Problem
Research Problem: “Student`s Perception on the effect of Physical Punishment on the self-
esteem and school Performance”
Comment: A survey on students` perception about the effect of physical punishment on their
self-esteem and performance does not raise an ethical issue, since respondents are only asked
about their perceptions. It is still important, however, to explain to the respondent the purpose of
the study and get their informed consent to participate in the study.
A review of related literature is the process of collecting, selecting, and reading books, journal
articles, report, abstracts, and other reference materials, including electronics sources (CD-ROM)
and the world wide web (www//http) to get relevant information about the problem under
investigation.
1. Background information about the problem and related concepts
2. Theories that explain the existence of the problem and the possible connection between certain
factors and the problem
3. Data the confirm the existence and seriousness of the problem
4. General and specific findings of studies related to the problem
5. Recommendations for further study given in related studies

Why Review Literature?

A review of literature is a must in research. Related literature can help a research identify and
develop a research problem, formulate a research framework, and identify and use appropriate
research methodologies and tools.
1. Related literature helps the research identify and define a research problem. A new problem
may arise from vague results, conflicting findings, or the inability of study variables to
adequately explain the existence of the problem
2. A review of related studies helps justify the need for studying a problem. When findings of
related studies are not clear or do not provide adequate/ conclusive answers to certain issues or
questions then the conduct of a study is justified.
3. Related literature helps prevent unnecessary duplication if a study there are may research
problems that are already “over studied” and yet, similar studies are still being conducted. If a
researcher has adequately reviewed related literature about his/her study unnecessary duplication
can be avoided.
4. literature can be a source of a theoretical basis for the study correlation studies usually use or
generate theories to explain the research phenomenon under study. Research may use or adopt
the same theory or theoretical framework used in the related studies.
5. Literature enables the researcher to learn how to conceptualize a research problem and
properly identify and operationally define study variables.
6. related studies provide a basis fir identifying and using appropriate research design. It also
helps In the formulation or refinement of research instruments.
7. results of related studies provide lessons for data analysis and interpretation. Findings of a
study can be compared to findings of related studies.
When to start reviewing related literature
While the research problem is still being conceptualized, the research must already start
reviewing literature. In identifying and defining the research problem, the research must be able
to show evidences that the problem really exist and is worth investigating. Information regarding
the existence, seriousness, and relevance of the problem can be gleaned from literature.
It is important that the researcher knows what is alreadty known about the problem or
what earlier researchers have found about it and what questions still need to be answered before
the research questions or objectives are finalized.
Theories which researchers use to explain the existence of a research problem and used as
bases in analyzing relationships between variables can be generated from reference books on
theories or from related studies. The researcher , therefore, must have already read adequate
literature at the start of a research activity

What to review and where to get the materials

Researchers should be familiar with the different sources of information relate to the
research problem. The most common types of source of information for a research problem are:
general reference primary source and secondary source
General reference
General references show where to locate other sources of information related to a certain
topic: Example of general references available in most libraries are indexes, reviews and
abstracts.
Primary sources
Result of many result studies are published in journal, or monographs. These articles or
reports are generally written by those who actually conducted the study, thus, they are called
primary sources.
Secondary sources
Refer to publications where authors cite the work of others. The most common secondary
sources are books, reviews, yearbooks and encyclopedias.
Steps in Literature Review
In reviewing related literature, the following steps may be fallowed:
1. Review the precise definition of the research problem. Note the key variables specified in the
study objectives and hypothesis.
2. Formulate “search terms” ( key words or phrases) pertinent to the problem or question or
interest. For example for the problem: Adolescent` Perceptions on the effect of punishment on
self-esteem and academic performance,” possible “search terms” could be “punishment and
learning,” self esteem and performance,” “self-worth,” and reinforcement.”
3.Using the indexes of general references, search for relevant primary and secondary source
guided by the “search terms”. Start with the most recent issue and work backwards. Next, search
for sources listed under terms synonymous or related to the “search terms.” For example, in a
study on feminism, after tracking down sources listed under “feminism,” look up “women`s
issues” and “patriarchy.”
4. List in a note or index card the bibliographical data of the pertinent sources selected, including
the:
a) author of source, b) its title, c) name of the publication, d) date of publication (if
book, include place and date) e) page/s of the article.
5. Read the selected reading materials, take notes and summarize key points. Notes are
preferably written in note cards for easy retrieval and classification. In taking notes, be as brief as
possible, but include all relevant information which you can use in your full review, such as: the
problem, the objectives and hypotheses, the procedures, major findings, and conclusions.
Sample of a bibliographic card for a Journal
De Asis, Nerrisa, 1998-1999
“Risk And Health Seeking Behavior and STDs Among female Sex Worker In Iloilo City”
CPU Research Journal, 22(1) page 38-45
Sample of a Bibliographic Card for a Book
Varona, Blecenda, Maria Elena Godoy, & David Varona
“Stomach and Intestinal Problems”
Healing Wonder of Diet: The Philippine Publishing House
Copyright 1999
Page 26-34
Sample of a Bibliographic Card for a Thesis
Nolasco, Esperanza M.
“An assessment of the Financial Control system and the Financial Status of Credit Cooperatives
in the Province of Antique”
Thesis, Master of Business Adminstration,
Central Philippine University
Iloilo City
1999
Example of a note card
David, Fely, Ed. D Dissertation, CPU, 1996
Research Title: “Gender Differential in Decision-making participation at home and at work
among faculty members in four universities in Iloilo City”
Objective: to determine and compare the extent of participation in decision-making at home and
at work of the male and that of the female faculty members differ significantly.
Hypothesis: The extent of participation in decision-making at home at work of the male and
female faculty members differ significantly.
Research Methods: Survey of 350 faculty members chosen using stratified random sampling.
Data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaire.
Major Finding: Decision-making in the home of the faculty members is ba
Writing the literature Review
After taking notes from the different sources reviewed, the researcher prepare the final
review. Most literature reviews consist of the following parts: introduction, body,
summary/synthesis, and conclusion.
1. Introduction. The introduction briefly describes the nature of the research problem and
explains what led the researcher to investigate the question. The summary present the main
topics covered in the literature review section.

2 Body. The body of the review briefly reports what experts think or what other researchers have
found about the research problem. Studies done on one key element or factor of the research
problem are reviewed under that topic followed by studies done on other aspects of the problem.
The common findings of several studies are summarized in one or two sentences and only when
necessary, some specific findings of each study may be presented.
Result na to anong nalaman nila
“Several studies reported that education attainment is significantly associated with compliance to
medical regimen (de la Cruz, 1999 Monteblanco, 1999). In her study of myocardiac infarction
patients, De la Cruz (1999) found that college educated patients had better compliance with their
medical regimen, diet requirement and exercise. Similarly, Monteblanco (1999) observed that
high school-educated elderly In Jaro. Iloilo City took their medications more regularly that their
less educated peers.
3. Summary/synthesis. The summary/ synthesis of the literature review “ties together” the major
findings of the studies reviewed. It present a general picture of what has been known or thought
of about the problem to date. It points out similar result, as well as conflicting findings.
4. Conclusion. This part present the course of action suggested by the literature. Based on the
state of knowledge revealed by the literature, the researcher could further justify the need for
his/her study.