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02 Identifying and Formulating A Problem

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6 views21 pages

02 Identifying and Formulating A Problem

Uploaded by

villanuevaangelicafate
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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IDENTIFYING

AND
FORMULATING A
PROBLEM
Learning Objectives
 Define what is a research problem
 Recognize the importance of accurately
identifying and formulating problems.
 Identify problems within the school or
community and think of ways to solve
them
Problem-solving is a
fundamental skill in various aspects
of life, from personal to
professional domains.
However, before we can solve a
problem, we must first identify and
define it properly.
Understanding the Nature of
Problems
Problems are situations where there is a
gap between the current state and the
desired state. They can arise in any
context, ranging from simple everyday
tasks to complex organizational challenges.
What is a Research Problem?
A research problem is a gap in existing
knowledge, a contradiction in an
established theory, or a real-world
challenge that a researcher aims to
address in their research.
Importance of Identifying and
Formulating Problems
Guiding Inquiry
Every scientific investigation begins
with a problem or question. It serves as
a guide, directing researchers towards
meaningful and relevant inquiries
within their field.
Focus and Scope
Defining a clear problem helps in
narrowing down the focus of research.
It prevents researchers from wandering
aimlessly and ensures that efforts are
concentrated on addressing specific
issues.
Building Knowledge
By pinpointing gaps in existing
knowledge or challenging prevailing
assumptions, formulating a problem
paves the way for new discoveries and
advancements in understanding.
Key Elements of Identifying and
Formulating a Problem
Observation and Curiosity
Scientific inquiry often starts with
observation – noticing patterns, anomalies,
or phenomena that raise questions.
Curiosity fuels this process, driving
researchers to explore further.
Reviewing Existing Literature
Before formulating a problem, it's
essential to conduct a thorough review of
existing literature. This helps researchers
understand what is already known, identify
gaps in knowledge, and determine areas
ripe for investigation.
Relevance and Significance
The problem should be relevant
to the field of study and have
significant implications. It should
address an issue that has practical
importance or theoretical
relevance.
Strategies for Identifying and
Formulating a Problem
Think About Stuff Around You
Start by looking at things around you,
like plants, animals, or even the
weather. Notice anything interesting or
unusual? That's where a problem might
hide!
Ask Questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions
about what you see. Wonder why some
plants grow taller than others? Or why
the sky changes colors at different
times? Asking questions is the first step
to finding a problem to solve.
Talk to People
Share your ideas with friends, family,
or teachers. Sometimes, talking about
what you're curious about can help you
figure out what problem you want to
explore.
Read and Learn
Take time to read books, watch
videos, or explore the internet. You'll
find lots of cool facts and ideas that
could spark your interest and help you
identify a problem you want to learn
more about.
Think about What Matters
Consider what's important to you or
your community. Is there something
you care about or want to improve?
Finding a problem that matters to you
can make your research more exciting
and meaningful.
Examples of Well-Formulated
Problems
Problem Statement: "What is the impact
of climate change on biodiversity loss in
tropical rainforests?"
This problem is specific, relevant, and
significant, addressing a pressing environmental
issue with broad implications.
Problem Statement: "How does
sleep deprivation affect cognitive
performance in high school
students?"
This problem is clear and focuses on a
specific population and outcome
measure, allowing for targeted
investigation.
ASSIGNMENT
Identify at least three
challenges/problems within your school
or community and think possible
solutions to address them.
EXAMPLE
Problem: Many students throw away
recyclable materials like paper, plastic
bottles, and cans, leading to
unnecessary waste and harm to the
environment.
EXAMPLE
Solution: Establish a school-wide recycling
program where designated bins are placed
throughout the school for collecting recyclables.
Educate students about the importance of
recycling through posters, assemblies, and
classroom discussions. Assign student
volunteers to monitor and empty recycling bins
regularly.

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