A possible research situation exist when the existing condition (what is) is different from what is

expected (what should be), and there are two or more plausible (reasonable) causes of discrepancy
between what is and what should be

Example of a Researchable Problem

Situation: Despite of free tuition, many high school students in a public high school in
Province X have dropped out. Records shown that more than 50% of the
students are already dropped out before the middle of the school year (What is)

What should be: Students are expected to finish high school because it is free. They should not
drop out (What should be). On the contrary, a big number of students drop out
(Discrepancy)

Research Question: why do students drop out? What factors contribute to the high drop out rate?

Possible Answer: There are many possible reasons why student drop out. Among the possible
reasons are financial difficulties, far distance of students’ house from school,
students’ lack of interest to study, and poor health.

Comments: Since there are a number of possible reasons for dropping out of students
despite of free tuition, the problem is researchable. Research can determine the
existence and extent of relationship between the identified possible factors and
the students’ decision to drop out of school or to stay. Furthermore, research
can determine the relative contribution of each factor in the decision to drop
out.
Defining the Research Problem

Once the problem is identified, it should then be defined The problem definition explains the
existence and seriousness of the problem. The definition shows evidences that prove the problem really
exists, that it is serious, and/or widespread. The definition of a problem also identifies the elements of a
broader problem that are to be the focus of the research activities

The problem definition must show that the problem needs serious attention because many people are
or will be affected by it. In defining a research problem, the following questions are usually answered

1. Does the problem really exist? What are the evidences of the problem's existence?

2. Is the problem serious? Who and how many are affected by it?

3. What places are affected? How widespread is it?

4. How often does the problem occur?

In defining the research problem, it is important for the researcher to present a valid justification for the
conduct of the study. The problem definition must show that answers to the research questions are not
yet clear or available. To do so, the definition should present relevant data from service statistics and
related literature.

Things to Remember When Defining a Research Problem

1. First review relevant literature and previous studies on the problem

2. Examine current available data/statistics,

3. Seek educated opinions from persons concerned with the problem

4. Determine the probable reasons for the existence of the problem from social, economic, or
other theories that may explain the existence the problem and the possible connection between
the problem and other factors.