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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