Research Question

Definition

A research question is a clear, focused, and concise inquiry that guides a research study, helping to define the purpose and scope of the investigation. It serves as the foundation for the research process, allowing researchers to identify relevant literature, design appropriate methodologies, and analyze data effectively. Formulating a strong research question is essential for driving the entire study and ensuring meaningful results.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A well-crafted research question should be specific, measurable, and achievable within the constraints of the study.
2. Research questions can be classified into different types, including descriptive, comparative, and causal questions, each guiding different research approaches.
3. The formulation of a research question often requires iterative refinement based on initial findings from literature reviews.
4. Research questions help in determining the appropriate sample size and selection criteria for studies in nursing and healthcare.
5. Clear research questions enhance communication among researchers and stakeholders by establishing a common understanding of the study's goals.

Review Questions

• How does a well-defined research question influence the overall success of a nursing study?
  • A well-defined research question is critical because it provides direction and focus for the entire study. It helps researchers identify relevant literature, choose appropriate methodologies, and formulate hypotheses. In nursing studies, having a clear question ensures that the research addresses pertinent clinical issues, ultimately leading to findings that can improve patient care and outcomes.
• What role does a literature review play in refining a research question in nursing research?
  • A literature review plays an essential role in refining a research question by providing insights into existing studies and identifying gaps in knowledge. By examining previous research findings, researchers can adjust their questions to be more relevant and impactful. This process ensures that the new study contributes valuable information to the field of nursing and addresses unanswered queries.
• Evaluate how different types of research questions affect the choice of methodology in nursing studies.
  • Different types of research questions significantly influence the choice of methodology in nursing studies. For instance, descriptive questions might lead researchers to use qualitative methods to gather detailed insights from participants, while causal questions may require experimental designs or quantitative analyses to establish relationships between variables. Understanding these differences helps researchers select appropriate techniques for data collection and analysis, ultimately affecting the validity and reliability of their findings.

Related terms

Hypothesis: A specific, testable prediction about the relationship between two or more variables, often derived from the research question.

Literature Review: A comprehensive survey of existing research related to a specific topic, which helps to inform and contextualize the research question.

Methodology: The systematic approach and techniques used in conducting research, including data collection and analysis methods linked to addressing the research question.