Framing a Research Problem (Lesson): EDIT 6900

EDIT 6900
Lesson: Framing a Research Problem

updated 9-9-08

To do this lesson, you need:

this outline open in a separate browser window
mp3 file: Framing Research Problems - from WebCT-6900-Audio
about 23 minutes to sit at your computer and listen

Note:
This audio is a splice combining original material from the 2007 class and 2008 updates. As a result of my highly unprofessional sound editing, you will see that numbers on the outline may be off, and that the Exhibition is referenced in past tense. Otherwise, I've checked the content and updated the important stuff.

Outline
1. Evangelism (motivation)
This activity opens the door to the most practical professional research skill. Think of it as Professional Problem Solving.

2. Unfortunately, haven't identified any readings that match exactly what I'm talking about.
Elements found in:

scientific method, exploring what is known (ex: magnets)
reflective practice, reflective practitioner literature: think about what is working and what's not and experiment with strategies
action research (problem --> strategy --> measure --> repeat)
I-Search (getting down to a question; information sources beyond the typical)[on the tape I say EDIT 6320 - should be 6360]
Consider reading about any of these areas that you're not familiar with.

3. As you start searching: List topic components and related literatures

You have your problem identified.
Think deeply about the problem itself. Discuss it. Identify its territory, components, characteristics.
Talk to a person who has experienced this problem, or relive the experience of interviewing that person.
Use empathy to put yourself in the place of the person with the problem. (Easy if it's you!)
Do some preliminary reading (think I-Search again, no note-taking); this will help you identify topic components.
Example: multiple floor media center (inspired by one of your interviews)(angles include: disabled or injured patrons; ADA law; material shifting; fundraising; and probably others)

3. Relationship to Researchable Question assignment

questions appropriate for collecting data are usually sharpened versions of what you'll do in this class
otherwise, no different
may evolve a bit as your Problem Project progresses (usually narrows)

4. My suggestions

unlikely that focus forms in a linear fashion
Kuhlthau found anxiety at this stage
have a brainstorming session in which team members identify related topics
make a concept map
brainstorm possible sources of information; not necessarily limited to peer-reviewed articles (make sure to consider the credibility of each source - a topic for later)

Looking ahead

Researchable Question is due on Sep 27, which will hold you accountable for some of the material in this lesson.
Your option: if you would like to submit a draft of your Question for my early review, feel free to do that - just the question itself, not the surrounding material.

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Revision history: created for Fall 2007. Updated 9-9-08 (along with mp3) for 2008 class; contains several dated details.

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