RESEARCH PROBLEM

Definition of a research problem: A difficulty faced by a researcher in a theoretical or practical

context seeking a solution.

Conditions for the existence of a research problem:

 Presence of an individual, group, or organization (referred to as 'I') to whom the problem

can be attributed.
 'I' occupies an environment ('N') defined by values of uncontrolled variables ('Yj').

Necessary elements for a research problem:

 At least two courses of action ('C1' and 'C2') to be pursued, defined by controlled
variables.
 Each course of action leads to at least two possible outcomes ('O1' and 'O2'), with one
being preferable.
 Existence of an objective, representing the outcome that the researcher desires.
 Unequal efficiencies of choices:

Probability representation: P(Oj | I, Cj, N) for the likelihood of outcome 'Oj' given 'I' selects
'Cj' in 'N'.

Requirement for unequal efficiencies: (PO1 | I, C1, N) ≠ (PO2 | I, C2, N) to ensure choices have
varying chances for desired outcomes.

Components of a Research Problem:

1. Existence of an Individual or Group with a Difficulty: There must be an individual or a group

facing a specific difficulty or problem.

2. Presence of Objectives: There must be clear objectives that the individual or group aims to
attain. Without objectives, there is no problem.

3. Availability of Alternative Means or Courses of Action: There must be multiple alternative

means or courses of action for achieving the stated objectives. Having at least two options is
essential.

4. Doubt Regarding Alternative Selection: There should be uncertainty or doubt in the mind of
the researcher regarding the selection of alternatives. Research aims to address the relative
efficiency of these alternatives.

5. Relevance to an Environment: The difficulty or problem must be associated with a specific

environment or set of circumstances. The environment is defined by certain factors that
contribute to the complexity of the problem.
Selecting the Problem:

1. Individual Involvement:

The researcher must carefully select a problem that stems from their own thoughts and
interests. Assistance from a research guide can be sought, but the problem should be a product of
the researcher's mind.

2. Originality and Uniqueness:

Avoid choosing problems that are overdone, as it becomes challenging to bring new insights.
Controversial subjects may not be suitable for an average researcher.

3. Problem Scope:

Avoid problems that are too narrow or too vague. Select a problem that is familiar, feasible,
and within reach, ensuring access to relevant research material.

4. Consultation and Effort:

Seek guidance from experts or professors in the field.Read articles in current literature to
gather ideas. Discuss potential problems with others and make efforts to explore and finalize a
research problem.

5. Considerations in Selection:

Consider the importance of the subject, researcher's qualifications, training, costs, and time
factors. Ask critical questions about background, budget, and necessary cooperation to assess
the practicability of the study.

6. Preliminary Study:

Conduct a preliminary study, especially when the field of inquiry is relatively new. Ensure that
the chosen problem aligns with the researcher's background and resources.

Necessity of Defining the Problem:

1. Importance of Clarity:

A clearly defined problem is essential; it is said that a problem clearly stated is a problem half
solved.

Defines the boundaries within which the researcher will study the problem.

2. Discrimination of Data:

Helps discriminate relevant data from irrelevant data.

 Enables planning of research strategy and subsequent steps.

Technique Involved in Defining a Problem:

1. Statement of the Problem:

State the problem in a broad general way, considering practical concerns or scientific interests.

Immersion in the subject matter and, if needed, preliminary surveys can aid in formulating the
problem.

2. Understanding the Nature:

Discuss the problem's origin and nature with those who raised it.

Consider the environment in which the problem exists.

3. Surveying Literature:

Survey all available literature on the problem.

Review relevant theories, reports, and records to identify gaps and inconsistencies.

4. Developing Ideas Through Discussions:

Discuss the problem with colleagues and experienced individuals.

Conduct an experience survey to gather valuable insights.

5. Rephrasing the Research Problem:

Rephrase the problem into a working proposition, making it operationally viable.

Specify the problem in analytical or operational terms for the development of working
hypotheses.

Additional Points to be Observed:

1. Clear Definitions

Clearly define technical terms and words used in the problem statement.

2. Statement of Assumptions

Clearly state any basic assumptions or postulates related to the research problem.

3. Value of Investigation

Clearly state the value of the investigation and criteria for selecting the problem.
4. Consideration of Time and Sources

Consider the suitability of the time period and available sources of data.

5. Scope of Investigation:

Explicitly mention the scope and limits within which the problem will be studied.