A good problem formulation is the first and most important step of the research process. It establishes the destination for the research journey and provides the foundation for the entire study. To develop a strong problem formulation, one should choose an interesting topic within their area of interest, narrow it down to a researchable question, and establish understandable sub-questions. The formulation should be manageable in scope and establish purposeful cooperation between the researcher and relevant stakeholders. A good problem formulation keeps the researcher engaged throughout the process and can lead to practical outcomes if formulated carefully according to best practices.
1. Problem formulation A problem well defined is a problem half solved created by the Dreamteam
2. Overview What is a good problem formulation? Why is a good problem formulation important? How to set up a problem formulation? Do‘s & Dont‘s Sources
3. Whatis a goodproblemformulation? Definition: „Problem formulation is the creative and probably the more important step towards overcoming a problematic state than problem-solving. A good definition of what the problem is, is believed to be more than half of the way towards is eventual elimination.“ (ask.references.com)
4. What is a good Problem formulation? Interesting – keeps the researcher involved in it throughout the research process Researchable – can be investigated through the collection and analysis of data, using case study or other techniques Understandable and logically build up – well formulated and has logical structure with main question and following sub-questions
5. What is a good problem formulation? Manageable – fits the level of researcher’s level of research skills, needed resources, and time restrictions Purposeful – establishes cooperation between researcher and business which should lead to economical and practical development of both sides Ethical – does not embarrass or harm participants
6. Why is a good problem formulation important? Formulating a Problem formulation is the first and most important step of a research process The problem formulation is like an identification of a destination before undertaking a journey The research problem serves as a foundation of a research study; like a building and its foundation If it is well formulated, you can expect a good study to follow Remember: Confusion is often but the first step to clarity
8. How to set up a problem formulation? Step 1: Choose a area/topic Your own interest is your most essential motivational factor (Andersen, 2005) Brainstorm techniques Be creative, be open to new ideas Quantity Step 2: Narrowing down Be critical Determine whether the information already exists Choose a subject Think: what is the problem, why is it a problem, and who is it a problem for? (Andersen,2005) Divide the broad area into sub areas
9. How to set up a problem formulation? Step 3: Write the problem formulation Raise research questions + sub questions Understandable language Clearly delimited Determine whether the question can be answered Step 4: Double check Check everything (main question, sub questions) Ask yourself the question if you are satisfied with your problem formulation Remember in any case to always justify why you choose exactly the problem formulation you do, rather than other possible problem formulations (Andersen, 2005)
10. Do‘s & Dont‘s Do’s Free thinking wild ideas, spontaneous, creative Use brainstorm techniques Seek help if running in circles/empty of ideas Always look on the bright side of life Dont’s Avoid negative thinking Don’t panic Don’t push yourself in a corner
12. Sources Andersen, IB (2002): Den SkinbarlingeVirkelikghed. Copenhagen: Samfundsliteratur http://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=x_kp__WmFzoC&oi=fnd&pg=PR16&dq=guide+for+problem+formulation&ots=mPrby18e29&sig=eMLKjP-0v8kXOv65-EgP7Om81zY#v=onepage&q=&f=false Kumar, R (2005). Research methodology, a step by step guide for beginners, SAGE Andersen (2005). Guide to problem formulation, Samfundslitteratur Press Table: Kasper Kok, Peter Valkering, et al. http://edepot.wur.nl/19270
