RCE2601 LESSON 2

Research question and sub-questions and research goal and

objectives

1. Research question and sub-questions

A research question is a clear, concise, and specific inquiry that guides a research
study. It identifies the main topic or issue to be investigated and provides a
framework for the research process. Sub-questions, on the other hand, are
subsidiary questions that support and expand upon the main research question.
They help to further narrow down the scope of the study and provide specific areas
of investigation. Sub-questions are typically more focused and specific than the main
research question.

Here are the examples to illustrate the concept:

Example 1
Research question: What is the impact of social media on body image dissatisfaction among adole
Sub-questions:
How does exposure to idealized body images on social media contribute to body image dissatisfac
Are certain social media platforms more influential in shaping body image dissatisfaction among ad
What role do peer comparisons on social media play in influencing body image dissatisfaction amo
How do social media interventions or campaigns aimed at promoting positive body image affect bo
In this example, the main research question addresses the overall impact of social media on bod
specific aspects related to the influence of idealized body images, the role of different social
interventions.

Example 2
Main research question: What are the effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction in colle
Sub-questions:
What is the relationship between mindfulness meditation and perceived stress levels in college stu
Does regular mindfulness meditation practice lead to improvements in emotional well-being among
How does mindfulness meditation influence physiological markers of stress, such as heart rate and
 2. Research goal and objectives

A research goal is a broad statement that outlines the overall purpose or aim of a
research study. It provides a general direction and guides the researcher in
achieving their intended outcome. Research objectives, on the other hand, are
specific, measurable, and achievable statements that support the research goal.
They break down the research goal into smaller, more manageable steps and define
the specific tasks or areas to be addressed in the study.

Here are the examples to illustrate the concept:

Example 1
Research goal: To investigate the impact of exercise on mental well-being among
individuals with depression.
Research objectives:
Review existing literature on the relationship between exercise and mental well-
being in individuals with depression.
Examine the physiological and psychological mechanisms through which exercise
may influence mental well-being in individuals with depression.
Assess the effects of different types, durations, and intensities of exercise on
mental well-being outcomes in individuals with depression.
Compare the effectiveness of exercise interventions as standalone treatments or
as adjunctive treatments to traditional therapies for individuals with depression.
Explore potential barriers and facilitators to engaging in exercise among individuals
with depression.
Provide evidence-based recommendations for the integration of exercise
interventions in the management of depression.
In this example, the research goal is to investigate the impact of exercise on
mental well-being among individuals with depression. The research objectives
outline the specific tasks to be accomplished, such as conducting a literature
review, examining mechanisms, assessing different exercise variables, comparing
treatment effectiveness, exploring barriers and facilitators, and providing
recommendations.
The research objectives help guide the research process by providing clear and
measurable targets, ensuring that the study remains focused, and allowing for the
achievement of the overall research goal.

Example 2
Research goal: To examine the impact of technology integration on student
learning outcomes in primary schools.
Research objectives:
Review the existing literature on the use of technology in primary school
classrooms and its effects on student learning outcomes.
Identify the types of technologies commonly used in primary school settings and
their potential benefits and challenges.
Investigate the relationship between technology integration and student
engagement in the learning process.