Making Choices

(Deciding on what research

problem to pursue)

1
 Making Choices

Question: Are personal

values/preferences allowed in
choosing a research
topic/research problem?
 What to consider in making
choices:
1. The research topic is close to
your heart.
2. The problem is researchable.
3. The research problem is
manageable: (a) access to data;
(b) time frame; (c) resources.
 Choosing a Making
Research Topic Prescriptions
(Divergent Mode) (Divergent Mode)
PVs are not
allowed

Personal Values PVs are

(PV) are allowed allowed
Scientific Method
(Convergent Mode)
Reminders in Choosing a Research
Problem
Consider the social value of the
study.
Consider your audience (thesis
committee, conference organizers,
journal publishers, policy makers,
intended beneficiaries, affected
commmities, etc,)
 Reminders in Choosing a Research
Problem
Consider your interest or how
close the research problem is to
your heart.
Consider the researcheability of
the problem.
Consider the manageability of
the study (time frame, accessibility
of data, and logistics).