Elective -educational research Unit-4 Selection of a research problem

For selecting the problem, the researcher has to read various types of literature available in the field. There are research journals which publish results of completed research works, ongoing research works. They also publish articles on current trends on the research in the various fields. Similarly, within a specific field also there are thrust areas of researches which are identified and presented in such periodicals. Thus, the researcher has to read and ponder over the available literature in the field and should decide the research problem. While selecting the research problem, the following considerations are also worthy of consideration;

1. Is this the type of problem that can be effectively solved through the process of research? Can relevant data be gathered to test the theory or find the answer to the question under consideration?
2. Is the problem significant? Is an important principle involved? Would the solution make any difference as far as educational theory or practice is concerned? If not, there are undoubtedly more significant problems waiting to be investigated?
3. Is the problem a new one? Is the answer already available? Ignorance of prior studies may lead an investigator to spend time needlessly on a problem already investigated by some other worker.
4. Is research on the problem feasible? Although the problem may be a good one, is it a good problem for me? Will be able to carry it through to a successful conclusion? some of the questions the researchers should consider are the following ;
· Am I competent to plan and carry out a study of this type? Do I know enough about this field to understand its significant aspects and to interpret my findings? Am I skillful enough to develop, administer and interpret necessary data- gathering tools and procedures?
· Are pertinent data available? Are valid and reliable data gathering devices and procedures available? Will I get permission for collecting the data from the concerned samples?
· Will I have the necessary financial resources to carry on this study? What will be the expenses involved in data –gathering equipment, printing, test materials, travel, and clerical help?
· Will I have enough time to complete the project? Will there be time to devise the procedures, select the data gathering devices, gather and analysis the data and complete the research the project?
· Will I have the determination to pursue the study despite the difficulties and social constraints that may be involved? Will I be able to succeed when dta are difficult to gather and when others are reluctant to cooperate?