Phd Question Resources And Notes

PhD Question Resources and notes

Dissertation and Applied Doctoral Project Components (nu.edu)

Research questions (RQs) need to be aligned with the research method and purpose of the study. Usually a central thesis question is the goal. Sub questions should be limited and guide data collection and analysis.

Qualitative and Quantitative research questions are very different.

Quantitative: must reflect testable relationships between variables
Qualitative: indicate exploratory and open-ended questions Quantitative RQs lead to a hypothesis and reflect the predictions made for the research. Qualitative RQs do not require a hypothesis.

Common research question mistakes (avoid)

1) avoid yes/no questions. 2) avoid interview style questions (do you think..., etc) 3) Too many variables - limit the number of variables being measured, multivariate research is harder to draw a causal connection 4) Assumptions baked into question (how does the failure of x...) 5) Topic too broad 6) Difficult data collection - consideration for the data that will need to be collected must be taken into consideration

Developing a hypothesis in quantitative studies

A hypothesis is a single, tentative guess. It guides the theory development and experimental planning.

Nature of hypothesis

1) can be tested - verifiable 2) not moral/ethical questions 3) not overly specific or overly general 4) prediction of consequences 5) valuable to know even if proven false

The Role of Sub-Questions in Strengthening Main Research Questions

Answering the primary research question directly can be challenging and therefore subquestions are used to break the main question into smaller parts.

Understanding Main Research Questions and Sub-Questions

Defining the Main Research Question

The main question is the core of the study. The question is broader than the sub questions will be intentionally. Requiring investigation of multiple factors. Main questions are broad but flexible and narrow enough to guide research.

The Function of Sub-Questions

Decompose the main question into narrow focused inquires. Which: 1) Simplifies compexity - isolates aspects of the main question 2) Guide methodology - Each sub question aligns with a specific research method (can they overlap?) 3) Ensures comprehensiveness - covers all dimensions of the main question

Strategies for Developing Effective Sub-Questions

Aligning Sub-Questions with the Main Question

Each sub question must contribute to answering the main question. So they need to be aligned both in content and scope.

Ensuring Focus and Feasibility

Sub questions should not be overly broad or open-ended.

Maintaining Logical Sequencing

Sub questions follow a logical order that mirrors the research process. Foundational questions are first, then analytical quesions.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Overly Broad or Vague Sub-Questions

Being broader is for the main question

Redundant or Overlapping Sub-Qustions

Sub-questions should all be distinct, and should not overlap as much as possible.

Misalignment with the Main Question

Must relate to the primary objective directly.

Research questions explained plus examples

Common types of research questions

1) Descriptive 2) Explanatory 3) Predictive 4) Evaluative

What criteria should a good research question meet?

specific - subject should be clear
relevant - relevant to field of study and builds on existing knowledge
feasible - must be able to complete in available time, with available resources and knowledge
verifiable - must be verifiable through emperical research or data analysis
original - needs ot contribute to and expand existing knowledge
inpsiring - must be challening and inspiring