This document discusses guidelines for selecting and developing a research problem or topic. It defines a research problem and lists the characteristics of a good problem as being specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. The elements of a research problem are identified as the aim or purpose, subject matter, place, time period, and population. Finally, 18 guidelines for selecting a research topic are provided such as choosing a topic of interest, ensuring it is researchable and can be completed in a reasonable time frame, and that it contributes new knowledge and solutions.

1. Selecting and Developing Research Problem
In-partial Fulfillment
of the
Subject
Requirements
In
METHODS OF RESEARCH
(RC 102)
EDWARD L. CRUSEUS
Master of Arts in Education
Major in Physical Education

2. Selecting and Developing
Research Problem (Question)

3. Definition:
 A problem is (1) any significant, perplexing and
challenging situation, real or artificial, the solution
of which requires reflective thinking; (2) a
perplexing situation after it has been translated
into a question or series of questions that help
determine the direction of subsequent inquiry.
The foregoing definitions are according to Dewey.
(Good, p. 414)

4. Characteristics of a Research
Problem
The characteristics of a good problem possesses the
acronym S-M-A-R-T. This means that a research
problems should be:
1. Specific. The problem should be specifically stated.
2. Measurable. It is easy to measure by using research
instruments in collecting data.
3. Achievable. The data are achievable using correct
statistical techniques to arrive at precise results.
4. Realistic. Real results are not manipulated, and
5. Time-bound. Time frame is required in every activity
because the shorter the completion of the activity is
the better.

5. Elements of a Research Problem
1. Aim or Purpose of the problem for investigation. This answers
the question “Why?” Why is there an investigation, inquiry or
study?
2. The subject matter or topic to be investigated. This answers the
question “What?” What is to be investigated or studied?
3. The place or locale where the research is to be conducted. This
answers the question “Where?” Where the study to be
conducted?
4. The period or time of the study during which the data are to be
gathered. This answers the question “When?” When is the study
to be carried out?
5. Population or universe from the data are to be collected. This
answers the question “Who?” or “from whom?” Who are the
respondents? From whom are the data to be gathered?

6. Guidelines in the Selection of
Research Problem or Topic
1. The research problem or topic must be chosen by the
researcher himself.
2. It must be within the interest of the researcher.
3. It must be within the specialization of the researcher.
4. It must be within the competence of the researcher to
tackle.
5. It must be within the ability of the researcher to
finance, otherwise he must be able to find funding for
his research.

7. 6. It is researchable and manageable, that is…
a. data are available and accessible.
b. the data must meet the standards of
accuracy, objectivity, and verifiability.
c. answers to the specific questions
(subproblems) can be found
d. the hypotheses formulated are testable,
that is, they can be accepted or rejected.
e. equipment and instruments for research
are available and can give valid and reliable
results.

8. 7. It can be completed within a reasonable period of
time unless it is a longitudinal research which
takes a long time for its completion.
8. It is significant, important, and relevant to the
present time and situation, timely, and of current
interest.
9. The results are practical and implementable.
10. It requires original, critical, and reflective
thinking to solve it.
11. It can be delimited to suit the resources of the
researcher but big or large enough to be able to
give significant, valid, and reliable results and
generalizations.

9. 12. It must contribute to the national
development goals for the improvement of the
quality of life.
13. It must contribute to the fund of knowledge.
14. It must show or pave the way for the solution
of the problem or problems intended to be
solved.
15. It must not undermine the moral and
spiritual values of people.
16. It must not advocate any change in the
present order of things by means of violence
but by peaceful means.

10. 17. There must be a return of some kind to the
researcher, either one or all of the following, if the
research report is completed:
a. Monetary, either increase in salary or
publication of the results in which there is some
kind of royalty.
b. Advancement of position, promotion.
c. Improved specialization, competence, and skill
in professional work especially if the research
subject is related to the profession.
d. Enhanced prestige and reputation.
e. Satisfaction of intellectual curiosity and interest,
and being able to discover truth.

11. 18. There must be a consideration of the
hazards involved, either physical, social, or
legal.
Thank you!!!