Developing Research Questions: A Guide for Social ScientistsUndertaking a research project is a crucial, but often overwhelming aspect of any social sciences degree, and selecting a research question can be one of the toughest parts of the process. What makes an appropriate topic for research? How do you transform an idea into a 'researchable' question? And, once you've got a question, where do you go from there? Developing Research Questions steers readers through the complex process of starting a research project. The book explains how to break down initial ideas from broad topics into appropriate research questions, and gives detailed guidance on how to refine questions as the research project develops. Each chapter is packed with handy hints, tips and examples that show how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls in the research process. Linking hypotheses and questions with research design and methods at every step, this text takes readers from the start through to the final stage of answering their questions and drawing conclusions. This is a no-fuss, practical guide to forming your own research question. It is an indispensable resource for social scientists carrying out research projects at all levels. |
Contents
Where do research ideas come from? | 5 |
What makes a research question? | 33 |
What makes a question researchable? | 59 |
Copyright | |
6 other sections not shown
Common terms and phrases
2nd Edn aims answer appropriate argued argument Booth Booth et al collection and analysis common for researchers compound questions concepts conclusions context Cozby Craft of Research data collection DCQs debates Denscombe 2002 Developing Research Questions dichotomous question Dillon Education evidence base example explanations focus formulating research questions Gorard hypotheses ideas for research important inquiry investigation issues journals Key Points large number literature London methods of data Milton Keynes necessary novice researchers Open University population of interest practice precisely principle of reasoning problems Punch qualitative Qualitative Research readers relating relevant research design research methods research process research project research ques role Sellitz simply social capital social class social research social science social scientists suggest testing texts theoretical theory tions topic Toulmin travel and subsistence types of questions undergraduate United Kingdom Vaus W-Questions warranting claims