THE RESEARCH PROCESS.

THE RESEARCH PROCESS. A research process starts with a research problem What is a Research problem • According to Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) research problem is a question or concern that can be answered through the collection of data. • We can also say a research problem is a question of interest. Problem identification and formulation • The first step in the research development process is the problem identification. • First it involves indentifying the broad area of interest for example: community not going to the health facility, students not eating at the university cafeteria. • Secondary the researcher narrows down the general problem to a specific problem forming the basis of the research study. • The identification and definition of the study problem is critical to undertaking a research activity. • It is only when the problem has been carefully and precisely defined, can be research be expected to provide the required information. The research problem may take either of the two forms below. • An attempt to fill the gaps or deficiency in past literature in terms of topic, methods and implication. • A practical situation requiring investigation. A research problem may be defined as an issue that exists in literature, theory or practice that leads to a need of a research study. It is important that when a problem is defined, literature about the defined problem is discussed to set the problem in perspective and context. The following are the critical steps in setting the research problems for investigation: i) Indentify the broad problem area that is most likely related to your interest and professional objectives. ii) To formulate a research problem that will test an existing theory related to a study of interest.