MODULE 1

OUTCOME 1 UNDERSTAND HOW TO SELECT A RESEARCH

QUESTION.
1.1 Select a research question.
1.2 Explain the factors that contribute
successful research question selection

to

the

process

of

The research problem is often argued as the heart of the research process,
without which no research process can take place. In formulating the
problem the variables must be eminent and easily identifiable while a
hypothesis should accompany each research problem. Once a research
problem is clearly defined, it should be translated into a research
hypothesis that states; a relationship between two or more variables into
one or more populations. Thus the assignment will reflect on the linkage
of the research problem, research hypothesis and the existing variables.
Firstly, the research problem will be explored, its importance, sources of
the research problem, considerations as well as steps to be followed when
formulating a research problem. Secondly, identification of variables will
be discussed using the three common types of variables and the four
prominent scales of measurement.
The research problem is the heart of the research process hence cannot
be selected in a vacuum thus some considerations and factors have to be
considered.
Sources
of research problems revolve around the four Ps, People, Problems, Progra
ms, and Phenomena. Formulation of a research problem is a process thus
involves following steps. Variables are measurable factors that can
assume
more
than
one
value
andthree types of important variables can distinguished; independent, de
pendant andextraneous variables. Nominal scale, ordinal scale, interval
scale and ratio scale are the different types of measurement scale which
we
use
to
classify
variables.
A
hypothesis
is
a tentative statement of the results of an investigation indicating the relati
onship
between two or more variables that awaits verification. Hypotheses enabl
e theresearcher to add the formulation of theory if proved to be true. The r
esearchhypothesis and the alternate hypothesis are the most important
when carrying out or analyzing research.
1.3 Justify their choice of research question
The objective of this report is to gain a better understanding of the factors
that support and enable a collaborative effort in South African companies.
The benefits from collaborate are significant and the findings could enable
companies to attain these benefits. The predominant area of focus was
four research questions dealing with relationships and selection factors,
these focused on complexity, trust, culture and impact of selection area.