CHAPTER 2

Step 1: Formulating a research problem

Specificity: A well-formulated research problem should be specific and clearly define the
focus of the study. It should narrow down the scope of the research and clearly state what the
researcher intends to investigate.
Clarity: The research problem should be stated in a clear and concise manner, avoiding any
ambiguity or confusion. It should be easily understandable to both the researcher and the
readers.
Relevance: The research problem should address a significant and relevant issue within the
field of study. It should have practical implications and contribute to the existing body of
knowledge.
Feasibility: The research problem should be feasible to investigate within the available
resources, such as time, budget, and access to data or participants. It should be realistic and
achievable within the constraints of the research project.
Novelty: Ideally, the research problem should aim to fill a gap in the existing literature or
provide a new perspective on a topic. It should contribute something new and original to the
field of study.

Conceptualising a research design

Conceptualising a research design involves the following key points:
Understanding the research problem: Before conceptualizing a research design, it is
important to clearly understand the research problem or question that needs to be addressed.
Choosing the research approach: Researchers need to decide whether their study will
follow a quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods approach based on the nature of the
research problem and the type of data required.
Identifying variables and constructs: Researchers need to identify the specific variables
and constructs that will be measured or observed in the study. This includes defining and
operationalizing these variables to ensure they can be measured or observed effectively.
Selecting research methods: Researchers need to choose the specific methods and
techniques that will be used to collect data. This may include surveys, interviews,
observations, experiments, or other methods depending on the research design.
Determining the sample size and sampling technique: Researchers need to determine the
appropriate sample size for their study and select a sampling technique to ensure that the
sample represents the studied population.
Planning data collection procedures: Researchers need to plan how they will collect data,
including designing data collection instruments, such as questionnaires or interview guides,
and establishing protocols for data collection.
Addressing ethical considerations: Researchers need to consider and address any ethical
considerations related to their research design, such as obtaining informed consent from
participants and ensuring the confidentiality and anonymity of data.
Anticipating potential limitations: Researchers should anticipate and acknowledge any
potential limitations or constraints that may impact the research design, such as limited
resources, time constraints, or potential biases.
Overall, conceptualising a research design involves making strategic decisions about how to
effectively address the research problem and collect the necessary data to answer research
questions.

Step 3 : Constructing an instrument for data collection

 Constructing an instrument for data collection is a crucial step in the research process.
 It involves creating a tool or set of questions that will be used to gather data from
participants.
 The instrument can take various forms, such as a questionnaire, interview schedule, or
observation checklist.
 The questions or items in the instrument should be clear, concise, and relevant to the
research objectives.
 It is important to ensure that the instrument is reliable and valid, meaning that it
consistently measures what it is intended to measure.
 Pilot testing the instrument with a small sample of participants can help identify any
issues or areas for improvement.
 Consideration should be given to the format and structure of the instrument, such as
using a Likert scale for rating responses or providing open-ended questions for
qualitative data.
 The instrument should also take into account ethical considerations, such as
maintaining participant confidentiality and obtaining informed consent.
 It is important to document and keep track of any modifications or changes made to
the instrument during the research process.
 Overall, constructing an instrument for data collection requires careful planning and
attention to detail to ensure the collection of high-quality and reliable data.