The 'what', 'why' and 'how' of research questions

1. RESEARCH QUESTIONS
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What, Why, How?
By
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan,
Department of Education,
Hazara University Mansehra
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

2. Research Questions: What?
• A research question is a broader question around which
a whole research project or a significant part of the
project/study revolves.
• In other words, the primary aim of the research
project/study is to find answer to the research
question(s).
• Plays the role of a pivot in the research process.
• There may be one or more than one research questions
depending on the aims of the study.
• Example: What are the causes and consequences of
bullying in schools?
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

3. Research Questions: Why?
• Why do we need to have research questions in our
research studies?
• A research process generally begins with a question or
questions in the mind of the researcher.
• Research is a process of finding answers to our ‘what,
why, how, when, where’ questions regarding social or
natural phenomena.
• Research questions give focus and direction to the
research process.
• Achievement of research objectives often depends on
finding answers to our research questions
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

4. Research Questions: How?
• Different types of research questions will depend on the type
of research being conducted
• Descriptive, exploratory studies will have questions that
focus on exploring and describing social phenomena
• Example: What are schoolteachers’ perceptions about
effective strategies for classroom management?
• Correlational studies will have questions that focus on
identifying relationships between variables
• Example: What is the relationship between teachers’
teaching methodology and students’ attention in the class?
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

5. Research Questions: How?
• Causal/Experimental studies will generally have research
questions that aim at determining causes of effects.
• In other words, such questions are asked to determine
cause-effect relationships.
• Example: What is the effect of Direct Method of teaching
English on students learning?
• Conclusion: The type and number of research questions
will depend on the nature and type of research topics
and objectives.
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra

6. Research Questions: How?
• How to develop good research questions?
• Reflection on personal experiences, observations
• Reading, reading, reading (Multiple sources-Depth and
breadth)
• Reflection on your reading/Critical reading
• Discussion with colleagues, teachers, supervisors
• Drafting initial questions
• Reflecting and refining
• Focusing and pruning
• Peer review/feedback
• Finalising
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan, Hazara University Mansehra