In this chapter you will learn about:

• The importance of formulating a research problem

• Sources of research problems

• Considerations in selecting a research problem

• Specific issues to consider when formulating a research problem in qual- itative research

• Steps in formulating a research problem

• How to formulate research objectives

Keywords: concepts, dissect, operational definition, qualitative research, quantitative research, research objectives, research problem, study area, study population, subject area, validity, variable, working definition.

The central aim of this chapter is to detail the process of formulating a research problem, even though the specific process that you are likely to adopt depends upon:

• your expertise in research methodology;

• your knowledge of the subject area;

• your understanding of the issues to be examined;

• the extent to which the focus of your study is predetermined.

• The importance of establishing operational definitions

If you are not very familiar with the research process and/or do not have a very specific idea about what is to be researched, you need to follow every step detailed in this chapter.