How to write a research problem that convinces your committee
The research problem is the heart of the thesis. Learn its four elements, common mistakes that weaken it, and a practical model for writing it.
Choosing a methodology isn't a personal preference but a result of the nature of your research question. If your question is “how much?” or “what is the effect?”, you most likely need a quantitative method. If it's “how?” or “why?” in the sense of deep understanding, a qualitative method is closer.
Quantitative method
It measures phenomena with numbers and tests hypotheses statistically on a sample representing a larger population. Its common instruments are closed questionnaires, tests and secondary data. It suits studies of effects, relationships and differences between groups.
Qualitative method
It seeks to understand meanings and experiences from the participants' perspective. Its instruments are in-depth interviews, observation, document analysis and focus groups, with a small purposive sample. It's analyzed by coding and extracting themes, not with statistical tests.
Mixed methods
It combines quantitative and qualitative data in one study, either sequentially or in parallel. For example, you start with interviews to discover the dimensions, then build a questionnaire that measures them on a large sample. It gives a fuller picture but requires time and expertise in both methods.
| Criterion | Quantitative | Qualitative | Mixed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of question | How much? What is the effect? | How? Why? | Both |
| Sample | Large and representative | Small and purposive | Two stages |
| Instruments | Questionnaire, tests | Interviews, observation | Combination |
| Analysis | Statistical | Coding and themes | Merging the results |
| Software | SPSS, AMOS, R | NVivo, MAXQDA | Both |
How do you decide?
- Write your main question precisely.
- Decide whether you want generalization or deep understanding.
- Review the methods in the five studies closest to your topic.
- Make sure you can access the sample and instruments in the time available.
- Discuss your choice with your supervisor before building the instrument.
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