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RESEARCH METHODOLOGY – Problem Formulation
Look at previous research
o Internet search
o Library search
Develop some topics from your workplace
Observations
Discussions with experts of the fields
Ask friends, colleagues, academic advisor
The result: A general idea – a starting point
Academic Research
Is not one that benefits only a single person/group
Is not a trip to the library to learn more about a subject matter (although some may consider is
as such)
Is terminated if the problem is already solved (terminal) or the cost is prohibitive
Question you need to ask
Can the problem be researched/solved?
1. Is your research a master by taught course project (deep)? Master by research (deeper)?
Doctorate level (deepest)?
2. Is your background/past experience adequate? Within your range of competence
3. Is the problem practical?
4. Does the research fit into your career goals?
5. What results are expected?
6. Will an expert be needed?
7. Has the study been done before? We do not want to reinvent the wheel.
8. Can you solve it? Consider
Rig availability?
Software must be original
Cost/Funding/Grants
Time (2 semesters + break?)
Your commitments
Your priorities
9. Is it worthwhile? Will the results be of interest to others? Advance knowledge?
10. New and useful to wider audience/one person?
11. Has potential for expansion – in your own IPTA/IPTS
If you draw a blank with more than one of these questions, seriously reevaluate your topics!!
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