Een adequate probleemstelling voor sociaal-wetenschappelijk praktijkgericht onderzoek

Samenvatting

A literature review shows that many researchers are dissatisfied with the low efficiency of empirical studies. The primary reason for this can be found in the preliminary stage of research, when the basic problem is formulated. If the problem is not well-defined, it receives insufficient attention. Another problem is research on broad questions, eg, "How can agricultural overproduction be corrected?" Such questions are easy to pose but difficult to answer. A research project should not be seen as an instrument for problem solving. Three ways to remedy this situation are suggested: (1) adhering to a five-stage intervention cycle involving pointing out the problem, making the diagnosis, designing the study, implementing the project, & conducting a final evaluation; (2) developing an impact model describing intermediate steps useful in reaching the ultimate goal; & (3) selecting descriptive, explanatory, prognostic, or evaluative styles of questioning. 2 Figures, 8 References. Adapted from the source document.