Some definitions:
Research Question: a sort of "preamble" to your hypothesis(es). Something that interests you and will drive/guide your research. A single good research question will keep you interested for the duration of research, be grounded in one field or discipline, feasible within the constraints of the available resources, distinguished between what you will research, and is flexible. In qualitative research this might be known as a "research problem". Posing a direct question will make the subsequent hypothesis(es) or research questions more grounded, focused, purposeful, and directional. It is my personal opinion that the larger research question need not be explicitly stated.
Hypothesis(es) (or subsequent research questions): ways of explaining something previously unexplained. It is a form of a research question. It can be verifiable through investigations that can be reproduced. Hypotheses that can be tested are known as "testable hypotheses". The method of trying to provide the opposite of the hypothesis (what you want to show) is known as "null hypothesis".
These definitions follow the practical approach to research (specifically step 1 and 2):
1. Identify a good research question
2. Formulate some questions (or hypotheses) that can be researched
3. Design the research investigation
4. Selected the most appropriate materials or sample to study and the tools to use
5. Gather the data
6. Analyze these data using pre-defined criteria (e.g., statistics)
7. Report on the results in the dissertation
Where goals and objectives fit in is step 3.
Research Goals: outline the strategy that best positions the investigation (research) to confirm or reject the hypothesis.
Research objectives: get you actionable information and knowledge (e.g., recommend, approve, formulate). In qualitative research these might be known as "research tasks".
Adapted from: Dissertation Success
The objectives of a research project summarize what is to be achieved by the study. These objectives should be closely related to the research problem.
ReplyDeleteAfter you've come up with a question, think about what the path you think the answer will take. Where do you think your research will take you? What kind of argument are you hoping to make/support? What will it mean if your research disputes your planned argument?