A key stage in the process of writing a dissertation is the formulation of a research question. The further course of the research and its results depend on the correctly posed problem question. To successfully pass this stage and formulate a correct research problem, it is important to take into account a number of rules and requirements. Which ones exactly? In this article, we will find out what a good scientific problem should be and what to pay attention to when formulating it.
Scientific problem and hypothesis: what is the difference?
Often, in the process of writing a dissertation, scientists make a significant mistake: they confuse a scientific problem with a hypothesis. This, in turn, directly affects the course of the research and its results. That is why it is extremely important to know the difference between these two concepts.
Scientific problem – is a key question or set of questions that arise in the process of studying a particular phenomenon and for which there is no comprehensive answer in science yet. This is what the researcher seeks to find out in their work.
Hypothesis – is a scientific assumption about the connections between phenomena or possible ways to solve a scientific problem, which needs to be tested in the course of research.
To better understand the difference between a scientific problem and a hypothesis, let's look at an example. Imagine that you are writing a dissertation on the use of digital technologies in the educational process. Accordingly, the scientific problem and hypothesis may look like this:
- scientific problem: How does the use of digital educational technologies affect students' motivation to study in higher education institutions?
- hypothesis: The use of interactive digital technologies in the educational process increases students' internal motivation to study compared to traditional teaching methods.
As we can see, the scientific problem is formulated in the form of a question that outlines the direction of the research and indicates the existing gap in scientific knowledge. The hypothesis, on the other hand, is a reasonable assumption that offers a possible answer to this question and needs to be verified. Thus, the hypothesis logically follows from the scientific problem and sets the direction for the research.
How to formulate a scientific problem for a dissertation: recommendations for scientists
It should be noted that there is no universal formula for creating a scientific problem. However, in order to minimise risks and choose the right direction for research, a number of rules should be taken into account.
1. Conduct a literature review
Since a scientific problem involves filling a gap in knowledge, it must first be identified. To do this, it is important to conduct a preliminary analysis of the literature. In particular, carefully study scientific articles, monographs, and dissertations by other scientists on the subject to understand the current state of the problem in your field.
In the process, it is important to pay attention to unresolved issues, contradictions, or insufficiently researched aspects that can be developed as a scientific problem.
2. Consult with colleagues and your supervisor
This is a fairly simple step, but no less important. If you have difficulty formulating your research question correctly, regularly discuss your ideas with your supervisor to clarify the direction of your research and verify its relevance.
It would also be useful to involve colleagues or other researchers to exchange ideas, as their experience can help identify weaknesses or new perspectives in the formulation of the problem.
3. Define the context and boundaries of the problem
Clearly define the field or scientific discipline in which it arises, and specify its spatial, temporal, or methodological framework. Instead of a generalised formulation such as ‘problems in education,’ it is better to write more clearly, for example: ‘the insufficient effectiveness of distance learning in Ukrainian schools located in rural areas.’
This approach allows you to narrow the focus of your research, avoid generality, and specify the scientific problem.
4. Assess the practical and theoretical significance
Research whose results are not only scientifically novel but can also be applied in practice is particularly valuable. Therefore, when formulating a research question, it is important to consider how solving the problem will contribute to the development of a particular theory or the improvement of practical aspects.
Justify how your research responds to the real needs of society, industry or science. In this way, you will be able to emphasise the relevance of the problem and attract the attention of the scientific community.
The stage of formulating a scientific problem for a dissertation is one of the key stages in the process of writing a research paper. The further course of work and its results will depend on the chosen direction. Taking into account our recommendations, you will be able to find exactly the research question that will be not only relevant but also significant for the development of your scientific field.
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