Week 4

Problem Identification,
Research Objectives and
Hypothesis Testing
Example

Example 1
The Role of Auditing in the Management of
Corporate Fraud in Malaysia: A Quantitative
study in Malaysia
Variables
1. Enforcement of internal policies
2. Preventive measures
3. Detection of frauds ability

Example 2
The barriers towards leadership role of
Women: A Qualitative study in Brunei
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Learning Outcomes
Research problem, research objectives, and research
questions
1. Establishing the research problem
2. Background information
3. Developing a research questions/objectives
4. How to write research significance, scope,
limitations and definition of terms

Milestone 1:
Student should be able to identify research topic

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 RESEARCH TOPIC

1.1 1.1 Background

1.2 Problem Statement CHAPTER 1

1.3 Research Questions
1.4 Objectives
1.5 Research Hypothesis

1.6 Significance
1.7 Scope
1.8 Limitations

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides

1.9 Definition of Terms
Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.1 Background
Broad overview of the subject Example
Barriers towards
Leadership
positions: A
Introduction to subject matter qualitative study
and phenomena of interest you among women in
intend to study the Malaysian
Private Sector
Describe the broad foundations
of your study— the readers Start with a
understand what you intend to good Scenario
study
Sets the stage for the entire study, providing the reader with the background
information for placing the study into a context of related research and justifying
to the reader that a study is needed (Wiersma, 1995).
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Background
The Topic proposed to be studied
is introduced in this section. It should help the
reader to acquaint with the topic
• Start with general scenario
• What is your research area,
• The motivation of research
• How important is it for the industry
practice/knowledge advancement
First Impression. Need to create Curiosity. Scenario.
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 RESEARCH TOPIC

1.1 Background

1.2 Problem Statement

1.3 Objectives
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Research Hypothesis

1.6 Significance
1.7 Scope
1.8 Limitations

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides

1.9 Definition of Terms
Dr Jugindar Singh
 Problem: Addiction to Handphone

Concern?

Deficiency in
Literature?

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 RESEARCH PROBLEM

A research problem is an issue that attracts attention of OR

motivates a researcher to conduct a study on it
(Source: Piaw, C.Y. 2016)

Eg: To study the cause of high absenteeism among students

What is
the Issue?

Dr Jugindar Singh 9
10
 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION IS A RESEARCH
PROBLEM? - CRESSWELL

A research problem is an educational issue

or concern that an investigator presents and
justifies in a research study.
Proficiency in English
Cresswell, 2002
Language among
A statement of the problem is an argument at the academicians
beginning of a research report that justifies why In Private & Public
the research study was needed. Universities
It is called the “statement of the problem”
because the researcher identifies a problem and
argues that a particular research study Inconsistency in
is needed to address this problem Clark & previous research
findings on the levels
Cresswell (2015)
of English proficiency
A Research problem is the issue, controversy,
or concern that guides the need for a study 1
(Clark and Cresswell, 2015) 1
 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
SEKARAN & BOUGIE (2016)
A problem as any situation
where a gap exists
between an actual and a
desired ideal state -
Sekaran & Bougie (2016)
What is the
Issue?
A “problem” does not
necessarily mean that
something is seriously wrong
with a current situation that
needs to be rectified
immediately. A problem could
also indicate an interest in an
issue where finding the right
answers might help to
improve an existing situation
Examples
1. Staff turnover is higher than
anticipated.
2. The current instrument for the
assessment of potential employees for
management positions is imperfect.
3. Minority group members in
organizations are not advancing in their
careers.
4. Th e newly installed information system
is not being used by the managers for
whom it was primarily designed.
5. The introduction of flexible work hours
has created more problems than it has
solved.
6. Young workers in the organization show
low levels of commitment to the 1
organization. 2
 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
ZIKMUND ET AL (2010)
The process of defining and developing a
decision statement and the steps involved in
translating it into more precise research
terminology, including a set of research
objectives.
A problem occurs when there is a difference
between the current conditions and a more
preferable set of conditions.
In other words, a gap exists between the way
things are now and a way that things could be
better
Problems Mean Gaps
• Business performance is worse than expected
business performance.
• Actual business performance is less than possible
business performance.
• Expected business performance is greater than
13
possible business performance.
 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
ALAN BYRMAN(2010)

A research problem is a definite or clear

expression [statement] about an area of
concern, a condition to be improved
upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a
troubling question that exists in
scholarly literature, in theory, or within
existing practice that points to a need
for meaningful understanding and
deliberate investigation.

A research problem does not state how to do

something, offer a vague or broad
14
proposition, or present a value question.
 EXAMPLE OF DEFINING A
RESEARC H PROBLEM

An anthropologist might find references to

a relatively unknown tribe in Papua New
Guinea. Through inductive reasoning, she
arrives at the research problem and asks

Area of Concern
‘How do these people live and how does
their culture relate to nearby tribes?’

She has found a gap in knowledge, and she

seeks to fill it, using a qualitative case study,
without a hypothesis.

15
 PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION
EXAMPLES

Examples
1. Long and frequent delays lead to much frustration
2. Staff turnover is higher than anticipated.
3. Minority group members in organizations are not
advancing in their careers.
5. The newly installed information system is not being
used by the managers for whom it was primarily designed.
6. The introduction of flexible work hours has created
more problems than it has solved.
3.16

7. Young workers in the organization show low levels of

commitment to the organization.
 THE RESEARCH PROBLEM IS THE HEART OF A STUDY
Where to Find a Research
Problem
Two sources:
1. Real life
Eg: Issues in your local workplace
2. Scholarly arena:
Reviewing recent literature,
reports, or databases in your field.
Often the section of
“recommendations
for the future studies
What theories need to be tested
Relevant : relevant if it is meaningful
from a managerial perspective, an
academic perspective, or both
Feasible : you are able to answer the
research questions within the
restrictions of the research project.
Interesting.
Focus – Not too broad
Research Problem is
Relevant
Managerial perspective
(1)a problem that currently exists in
an organizational setting
(2)an area that a manager believes
needs to be improved in the
organization.
Academic perspective
(1)nothing is known about a topic,
(2)much is known about the topic,
but the knowledge is scattered
and not integrated
(3)much research on the topic is
available, but the results are
(partly) contradictory
(4)established
Feasible. relationships do not hold in
certain situations
A problem statement is feasible if
you are able to answer the research
questions within the restrictions of
the research project
WHY THE RESEARCH PROBLEM IS IMPORTANT

• It establishes the importance of the

topic.
• It creates reader interest.
• It focuses the reader’s attention on how
the study will add to the literature.

Example Example Example Example

The Barriers to The effect of Investigate the Success factors
leadership role of leadership style relationship regarding the
women in Brunei” on employees ’ between capital adoption and use
job satisfaction. structure and of information
profitability of the systems.
firm
 SOURCES OF RESEARCH PROBLEM
1. What is the issue or
problem?
2. What controversy leads to
the need for a study?
3. What concern is being
addressed behind the study?
4. Is there a sentence such as,
“The problem being
addressed in this study is…”?
Cresswell
Sources
1.Existing Theory: The
researcher wants to test
the theory
2.Contradictory results –
from other studies
3.Replication of previous
research
(Eg: In a different location)
19
4. Interest: Further
knowledge
WHY THE RESEARCH PROBLEM IS IMPORTANT Plano & Cresswell

Fill a gap A research study is needed to fill a gap in the existing literature about
the research problem.
Eg: Exploratory study on bullying by teachers ..

Replicate past A research study is needed to replicate past results about the research
results about the problem by examining different participants and different research
research sites.
Egresearch
Researchstudy
on Private sectortoreplicated in a results
Public Sector
Extend past results A is needed extend past or examine the
Examine the research research problem more thoroughly Eg: additional factors
problem more thoroughly
Learn from people A research study is needed to learn from people affected by the
affected by the problem whose voices have not been heard, who have been silenced, or
problem who have been rejected in society Eg: Disabled people

Improve current A research study is needed to improve current practices related to the
practices research problem. Eg: identification of new techniques or 3.20
technologies

Contradictory A research study is needed due to contradictory results

3.20
from past
Results studies. Eg: Motivation of Executives in MNCs
 FIVE ELEMENTS OF A “PROBLEM STATEMENT”

FLOW OF IDEAS

What
Remedying
Evidence for Deficiencies
Educational the Deficiencies
Topic the Issue in the
Issue will do for
Evidence
Select
•Evidence from Audiences
Subject •A Concern/Problem
the literature •In this body of
Area •Something that
Describe a •Evidence from evidence, what is
needs a Solution missing? How will addressing
goal or Practical Experiences
An issue, concern, or •What do we need to what we need to
desired Supporting evidence
controversy related know know help:
state of a about the problem
to the topic that more about? – researchers
given importance from the
needs a solution Inconsistencies – educators
situation, literature and/or
A condition that Something that is not – policy makers
phenomeno professional and
prevents the goal, known about the problem – individuals like
n personal experience
state, or value from
Justification based on Use a connecting term - those in the study
being achieved or
what researchers "however,
realized at the "unfortunately,” or “in
have found
present time spite of.”
Cresswell

21
 EXERCISE

Motivation of Students in Private Universities in Malaysia: An

exploratory study

Write the Problem Statement using the 5 steps

22
 FIVE ELEMENTS OF A “PROBLEM STATEMENT”

FLOW OF IDEAS

What
Remedying
Evidence for Deficiencies the Deficiencies
Educational in the
Topic Issue the Issue will do for
Evidence Select Audiences
Subject •A •Evidence from
the literature •In this body of
Area Concern/Problem How will addressing
•Evidence from evidence, what is
Motivation •Something that what we need to know
Practical missing?
of students needs a Solution help others
Experiences •What do we need to The purpose of this
Only 59% of There is a strong
Several factors know more about? study is to to
students on decline in
identified by However, provide the educator
full-time motivation as
researchers. inconsistencies with suggestions
four-year students move from that can be used to
Liu & Hou (2017) - observed in past
college elementary to high motivate his or her
intrinsic motivation research.
courses school (Martin, students
promotes academic Past research reveal
graduate 2009)
performance. inconsistent findings.
within six Students who are
Zusho et al., (2003) In addition, there is a Gap
years not motivated to
study are at a much found that self- dearth of research What is
(citation)
higher risk of not efficacy and task relating to the Missing
value, which were motivation of student
completing college
two motivational in Private universities 23
(Bean, 2005)
components in Malaysia
 FIVE ELEMENTS OF A “PROBLEM STATEMENT”
FLOW OF IDEAS

What
Remedying
Evidence for Deficiencies the Deficiencies
Educational in the
Topic Issue the Issue will do for
Evidence Select Audiences
•Evidence from
Subject •A •In this body of
Area the literature How will addressing
Concern/Problem evidence, what is
Motivation of •Evidence from what we need to know
•Something that missing?
Academicians Practical help others
needs a Solution •What do we need to
To However,
Experiences Without motivational
accomplish Steers et al. know packages the vices are
frequent more about? likely to continue and
their (1996) supported
disciplinary Inconsistencies retard the achievement
missions, the notion that
actions and Past research reveal of the universities’
public employees who
absenteeism in inconsistent findings. missions.
universities are dissatisfied Therefore, there is a
public In addition, there is a
need are more likely to need to examine the
universities dearth of research
motivated be absent. public universities’
affect the
workforces Another study relating to the motivation systems and
accomplishmen procedures, which is
(citation) showed that only motivation of
t of the set the aim of the proposed
that the extrinsic academicians in
missions research
sources of job Public universities in
(Citation).
satisfaction have a Malaysia 24
direct impact on
absenteeism
THE 5 PARTS OF PROBLEM
IDENTIFICATION

25
 1.ADVANCING THE TOPIC
• A research topic is the broad
subject matter that a researcher
addresses in a study
• Introduced in the first couple
of paragraphs
• The general subject matter
• Needs to be introduced so
that reader can relate to the
topic
• Describe a goal or desired
state of a given situation,
phenomenon
The authors introduce the topic
(tobacco use) and research problem
(number of expected premature deaths
because of teenage smoking) in
paragraph 01. This illustrates how the
topic and the research problem can
sometimes blend
Title: Tobacco use among students
Para 01
Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer in
American society (McGinnis & Foege,
1993).
Although smoking among adults has declined
in recent years, it has increased for
adolescents. The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) reported that the incidence of tobacco
use among high school students has risen
over the past decade from 27.5% in 1991 to
34.5% in 2000 (CDC, 2001). These figures fall
well short of the Healthy People 2010 goal of
reducing adolescent tobacco use to 16% (U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services,
2000). Unless this trend is dramatically
reversed, an estimated 5 million American
children will ultimately die a premature death
due to smoking related diseases (CDC, 1996).
26
 THE FIRST SENTENCE OF THE TOPIC
• The narrative hook
• The narrative hook
performs the following
functions:
• Causes the reader to pay
attention
• Elicits an emotional or
attitudinal response from the
reader
• Causes the reader to continue
reading
These first sentences often
generate interest by including
one of the following types of
information: statistical data, a
provocative question, a clear
need for research, a powerful
quote
Title: Tobacco use among studentsNarrative
Para 01 Hook
Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer
in American society (McGinnis & Foege,
1993).
Although smoking among adults has declined
in recent years, it has increased for
adolescents. The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) reported that the incidence of tobacco
use among high school
students has risen over the past decade from
27.5% in 1991 to 34.5% in 2000 (CDC, 2001).
These figures fall well short of the Healthy
People 2010 goal of reducing adolescent
tobacco use to 16% (U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, 2000). Unless
this trend is dramatically reversed, an
estimated 5 million American children will
ultimately die a premature death due to
smoking related diseases (CDC, 1996).
27
 2. STATING THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

• A problem that is a major concern:

Research problem “In particular, the career development of African American adolescents has
is an issue, concern, been of major concern in light of literature delineating numerous challenges that
or controversy that affect their personal, educational, and career development . . . “ ( Constantine,
Wallace, & Kindaichi, 2005 , p. 307 ).
needs to be solved ■ A problem that affects the lives of many individuals:
“Approximately one third of children and adolescents experience the stress of being
bullied by their peers . . . “ ( Newman, Holden, & Delville, 2011 , p. 205 ).
• Identify an issue ■ A problem that has serious consequences:
“Not only does lack of participation in physical activity contribute to the rising obesity rates
• Research-based in the United States, but it also directly contributes to the risk for several chronic diseases
research problems and leading causes of death in the United States, such as heart disease, hypertension,
Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers . . . “ ( Harley et al., 2009 , p. 97 ).
• Practical problems ■ A problem that is a current issue for practitioners: “Computer science faculty today
face many pressures to integrate collaborative and cooperative learning approaches in
• Reference the courses, increase active participation by students in classes, and increase the
problem using participation of under-represented groups in computing . . . “ ( Barker & Garvin-Doxas,
2004 , p. 119 ).
the literature ■ A problem about what is known about a topic: “Burns (1978) observed that despite
the large volume of scholarship on the topic, leadership is not well understood”
( Komives, Owen, Longerbeam, Mainella, & Osteen, 2005 , p. 593 ).
■ A problem that arises from conflicting evidence in the literature: “In the literature
on the impact of mobility on children’s educational attainment, findings are inconsistent”
28

( Heinlein & Shinn, 2000 , p. 349 ).

 3. JUSTIFYING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
Supporting evidence about the
problem’s importance from
the literature and/or
professional and personal
experience
1. Justification based on what
other researchers have found
Evidence from the literature
includes any arguments and results
that were previously reported in
the literature by experts
2. Justification based on
personal or workplace
experiences
Justify their research problems
based on evidence from the
workplace or their own personal
experiences
Example: Problem of youth experiencing stress from
being bullied
(referencing 6 articles that found that such stress is harmful to
youth)
This stressor has been linked to emotional and behavioral
problems, including depression and anxiety (e.g., Bond, Carlin,
Thomas, Rubin, & Patton, 2001; Craig, 1998), suicide risk (Klomek,
Marrocco, Kleinman, Schonfeld, & Gould, 2007), and increased
likelihood of conduct disorders (Wolke, Woods, Bloomfield, &
Karstadt, 2000; for reviews, see Griffin & Gross, 2004; Hawker &
Boulton, 2000). (p. 205 )
Example: Stigma for families of children with disabilities
(She wrote by referring to her own family experiences.)
As the mother of a teenager with cerebral palsy, my life has
become a case study in the lived experience of courtesy stigma
(Green, 2002, 2003). Based on the social scientific literature, I
carried into this experience awareness that Amanda would likely
be devalued and discriminated against because of the stigma
associated with her diagnosis. I also carried an intense, almost
unbearable, fear that this stigmatized status would result in a life
of rejection, mistreatment, social isolation and loneliness for my
daughter (Green, 2002). Many years later, I have learned that
stigma is a much more complex phenomenon than I originally29
anticipated. (pp. 1361 – 1362 )
 3. JUSTIFYING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM:
EXAMPLE

Title: Tobacco use among students

Previous research on adolescent tobacco use in the school context has focused on the
following primary topics. Several studies have surveyed public school students,
collecting data on initiation of smoking among young people and patterns of escalating
tobacco use (CDC, 1998a, 1998b, 1998c; Heishman et al., 1997; Peyton, 2001). Other
studies have focused on the prevention of smoking and tobacco use in schools. This
research has led to numerous school-based prevention programs and
interventions (e.g., Bruvold, 1993; Sussman, Dent, Burton, Stacy, & Flay, 1995). These
prevention programs have involved explicit curricular programs (Kolbe et al., 1995;
Larsen & Christiansen, 1994; Martin, Levin, & Saunders, 1999) and policy elements,
including tobacco bans (Ashley, Northrup, & Ferrence, 1998; Bowen, Kinne, & Orlandi,
1995; Bunch, 1990; CDC, 1994; Northrup, Ashley, & Ferrence, 1998). Fewer studies
have examined the schools’ role in “quit attempts” or smoking cessation among
adolescents. Some investigators have looked at ways to make cessation counseling
and support more accessible by offering such services in the school setting (Aveyard et
al., 1999; urton, 1994; Heishman et al., 1997; Pallonen, Prochaska, Velicer, Prokhorov,
& Smith, 1998; Pallonen, Velicer, et al., 1998; Sussman, 2001).
30
 4. IDENTIFYING DEFICIENCIES IN THE EVIDENCE

Something that is not Fill a gap A research study is needed to fill a gap in
the existing literature about the research
known about the problem.
problem Eg: Exploratory study on bullying by teachers ..

• What do we still Replicate past A research study is needed to replicate

need to know? results about
the research
• What else do we
need to know to
improve practice? Extend past
results
A research study is needed
when the present state of
knowledge about the problem is Learn from
somehow deficient and a study people affected people affected by the problem whose
can add new knowledge that will by the problem
address this deficiency.
There is a deficiency in
knowledge when past literature
or practical experiences of the Improve
researchers do not adequately current
address the research problem. practices
past results about the research problem by
examining different participants and
different research sites.
Eg Research on Private sector replicated in a Public
Sector
A research study is needed to extend past
results or examine the research problem
more thoroughly Eg: additional factors
A research study is needed to learn from
voices have not been heard, who have been
silenced, or who have been rejected in
society Eg: Disabled people
A research study is needed to improve
current practices related to 3.31
the research
problem. Eg: identification of new techniques
or technologies 31
 RESEARCH GAP

Research Gap: Deficiency in literature

Deficiency indicates that past studies did not adequately address
a particular issue or a problem (Cresswell 2014)
What is examined so far in the
existing literature The deficiency in the
Research Gap
literature
What is not studied yet?

Types of Gap
1. Conceptual or Theoretical gap- Focus on finding:
• New relationship/new POI
• Conceptualizing a concept from a different perspective
• Different facets of a construct
2. Methodological gap: Using a different method to investigate

3. Contextual Gap: Deficiency in literature in regard to the country,

culture, industry
32
 4. IDENTIFYING DEFICIENCIES IN THE EVIDENCE
• HOWEVER, THERE IS Title: Tobacco use among students
A PAUCITY OF However, there is paucity of that focused on high schools as a
RESEARCH……. site where adolescents continue to explore and experiment
with tobacco use. During high school, students form peer
• HOWEVER, THE groups that can contribute to adolescent smoking. Often,
RELATIONSHIPS peers become a strong social influence that reinforces
ARE STILL smoking behavior in general (Engels, Knibbe, Drop, & de Haan,
UNCLEAR…… 1997; Ennett & Bauman 1993; Gibbons & Eggleston, 1996;
Graham, Marks, & Hansen, 1991; Hansen, Johnson, Flay,
• HOWEVER, THERE Graham, & Sobel, 1988), and belonging to an athletic team, a
STILL EXISTS SOME music group, or the “grunge” crowd can influence thinking
AMBIGUITY…… about smoking (McVea, Harter, McEntarffer, & Creswell, 1999).
• HOWEVER, THE The vast majority of studies looking at smoking within the
EFFECTS HAVE NOT context of schools have used quantitative research methods;
BEEN EMPIRICALLY however, schools are also places to explore qualitatively how
TESTED……. students view smoking. Rather than using predetermined
concepts and theoretical models derived from the adult
• HOWEVER, PAST tobacco literature (Pallonen, 1998; Prochaska et al., 1994),
RESEARCH HAS researchers need also to hear how adolescents talk about
IGNORED…….. tobacco use (Ginsburg, 1996; Moffat & Johnson, 2001). Much
can be learned from a qualitative study that involves high
• HOWEVER school students talking with other students about tobacco use.
INCONSISTENCIES Employing students as co-researchers to gather data not only
IN THE provides detailed participant views in qualitative research
FINDINGS……… (Creswell, 2002; Ginsburg, 1996) but also offers the
Use this words opportunity to gather information without biases and 33
to state the perspectives that adults often bring to the study of adolescent
gap smoking.
 5. IDENTIFY THE AUDIENCE
Study’s audience consists
of individuals and groups
who the authors expect
will read and potentially
benefit from the new
knowledge provided in
the research article.
• Who will profit from
reading our study?
• Other researchers
• Practitioners
• Policy makers
• Special populations (e.g.
parents)
Title: Tobacco use among
students
By examining multiple school contexts, using
qualitative approaches, and involving students as
co-researchers, we can better understand the
complexity of the perceptions held about
adolescent tobacco use. This understanding
comes from listening to what students have to
say about adolescent tobacco use when they
talk with other students. With this
understanding, researchers can better isolate
variables and develop models about smoking
behavior. Administrators and teachers can plan
interventions to prevent or change attitudes
toward smoking, and school officials can assist
with smoking cessation or intervention
programs.
34
 HOW DO WE WRITE THE “STATEMENT OF THE
PROBLEM” SECTION?

• One paragraph for each of the five elements

• Heavily reference this section to the literature
• Provide statistics to support trends
• Use quotes from participants (in moderation)

35
 EXERCISE 2

Parents Raising Children with Disabilities: An

exploratory study among parents of disabled
children in Kuala Lumpur

Write the Problem Statement

36
 EXAMPLE OF THE FLOW OF IDEAS IN THE PROBLEM STATEMENT
Flow of Ideas

Justification Deficiencies in Relating the

Research
Topic for Research Discussion
Problem the Evidence
Problem to Audiences
Subject •Concern or •In this body of
•Evidence from •How will addressing
area issue evidence what is
the what we need to
•A problem literature missing or what know help
•Something •Evidence from do we need to researchers,
that needs a practical know more educators, policy
solution experience about? makers, and other
Raising a child Literature individuals?
Qualitative However, little •By better
Study with a disability documents the research has understanding
about can be stressful sources of explored parents’ •parent experiences,
Parents for parents and stress for experiences raising those
Raising parent stress parents raising a child with a •working with parents of
Children can affect the a child with a disability using •children with
with well being of disability and qualitative methods, disabilities
Disabilities the whole the effects of and the •could better develop
family stress on meanings of the •effective interventions
(Citation) families experiences •and support systems
for parents are
unknown
Plano @ Cresswell

38
 EXAMPLE OF THE FLOW OF IDEAS IN THE PROBLEM STATEMENT
Flow of Ideas

Topic Research Justification Deficiencies Relating the

Problem for Research in Discussion
Problem the Evidence to Audiences
Subject •Concern or •Evidence from •In this body of •How will addressing
area issue the evidence what is what we need to know
An Example •A problem literature missing or what help researchers,
•Something that •Evidence from do we need to educators, policy
needs a solution practical
Stumbling experience
know more about? makers, and other
blocks to However, Low individuals?
Women number of Women in top positions However,
Therefore, it becomes
Leadership Women in continues to be very there is a important to examine
Advancement Hypotheses
Leadership 4.4% small suggesting a glass paucity in the factors that might
facilitate the
In South Africa women1. MDs
The greater
and the extent of gender ‐ role stereotyping
ceiling effect that women research in
on advancement of women
Spectacular organizations,
CEOs, 5.3% were still the fewer will be the2013)
face (Rovers, number of women at the top. to top executive
increase in the 2. The effect of Barriers
gender‐roleRisen
stereotyping this of women positions.This study is
chairpersons, from on advancement
phenomena in an
no of women in to the top is partially mediated by access to information.
15.8% held effort to identify the
workforce cultural beliefs about 3.39
directorship South Africa. factors that currently
(citation) gender, workplace impede women’s
21.6% held In addition, advancement to the top
Only 19% executive
structure, practices, and
only general in Co. Govt & Orgn to
women in management patterns of interaction identify the specific
senior info. is policies and programs
(Businesswomen‟ (Ibarra, & Kolb, 2011). to address these
management available
Association, 2011 Two major stumbling barriers Cos. can apply
roles & Only 21% of blocks to their about the findings to approach
estimated it will contributing ways to empower and
be another 217 executives in the advancement: improve representation
years before IT sector are gender role stereotypes factors.
we achieve women (Duke, and inadequate access to
gender parity 2017) critical information
(Duke, 2017). (Koenig et al., 2011
 EXAMPLE OF THE FLOW OF IDEAS IN THE PROBLEM STATEMENT

Flow of Ideas
Relating the
Justification Deficiencies in Discussion
Topic Research
for Research the Evidence to Audiences
Problem
Problem
•How will addressing
Subject •Concern or •Evidence from •In this body of
what we need to know
area issue the evidence what is
help researchers,
•A problem literature missing or what
educators, policy
•Something that •Evidence from do we need to
makers, and other
needs a practical know more about?
individuals?
solution experience
Consumers’ Therefore, it is expected
Int. counterfeit Counterfeit product
intention to products’ value purchase However, there is that religiosity, ethical
purchase a dearth of concern, and perception
will increase to phenomenon
counterfeit studies that towards lawfulness can be
$1.7 trillion by received significant
product examines the considered as the drivers of
2016 (ICC, 2009). research attention
Malaysia effect of consumers’ counterfeit
5 to 7 per cent (Kassim et al., 2016).
counterfeit religiousity. product purchaseintention.
of the global Religious People
product value Religiousity The present study aims to
trade (OECD, tend to be more
has increased 2009). 750,000 cautious to cost, could be one the predict the direct and
to RM 378 m unemployed due price, and quality of factors that affect indirect effects of religiosity,
purchase of ethical concern, and attitude
to the counterfeit counterfeit
counterfeit. towards lawfulness in
business products(Vida et al.,
relation to consumers’
(Marcelo, 2011). 2012
attitude towards buying
counterfeit products
 EXAMPLE OF THE FLOW OF IDEAS IN THE PROBLEM STATEMENT
Flow of Ideas

Justification Deficiencies in Relating the

Topic Research
for Research the Evidence Discussion
Problem
Problem to Audiences

Subject •Concern or •Evidence from •In this body of •How will addressing
area issue the evidence what what we need to
•A problem literature is know help
•Something •Evidence from missing or researchers,
that practical what educators, policy
needs a experience do we need to makers, and other
solution know more individuals?
about?

Absenteeism Rising rate Several studies • However, None of •This study aimed to
affects to determine investigate possible
issues past studies
association between
performance association conducted among
in colleges Absenteeism between foreign students’
foreign students
substantially absenteeism •Gap in the academic
contributed to and academic literature performance and
low academic performance ( absenteeism score
achievement MQA; 2011 •Helps Uni. to develop
Shimoff & measures
Catania 2001. •Helps students
Dr Jugindar Singh
understand issues
 RESEARCH GAP: EXAMPLE 1. TEACHER BULLYING

Peer bullying is recognized as a significant problem in schools

at all levels, with serious consequences for both bully and
victim. While there is extensive research on peer bullying, it is
only recently that teacher bullying has emerged as an equally,
if not more, serious problem. . . . While there is little research
on the consequences of teacher bullying per se, our
understanding of the immediate and long term effects of peer
bullying and other forms of abuse, clearly indicate the
potential severity of the problem. . . . Recognizing the
importance of teacher bullying, this study, then, offers an
exploratory perspective on teachers’ understanding of
teacher bullying and expands our understanding of this
phenomenon.
Under this topic, the researchers identify the research problem as the serious issue
of teacher bullying. This is the larger problem and concern that the authors argue
needs to be studied. It is a problem because children likely Dr Jugindarsuffer
Singh 42 serious
consequences if they experience bullying from a teacher. Narrowing down from the
research problem, the researchers end this passage by indicating that the purpose of
their study is to explore teachers’ understanding of teacher bullying.
 RESEARCH GAP: EXAMPLE 2. INTERACTIONS WITH DISABLED
Few research studies have been published regarding attempts
to increase social interaction between children with and
without disabilities outside of the school setting . . . .There is a
demonstrated benefit of social interaction during leisure
activities for children with disabilities (Bedini, 2000) . . . .
However, these studies did not address improving interactions
between children with and without disabilities, which is an
extensively studied area in educational settings. Due to the
lack of intervention studies in leisure settings, research is
needed to determine the impact of peer training at recreation
sites. ( Boyd et al., 2008)
The study is needed because it will contribute to the knowledge
base by filling a gap in the literature about programs that aim to
increase interactions between children with and without
Dr Jugindar Singh 43
disabilities
 RESEARCH GAP: EXAMPLE 3

The researcher should have to have a “Practical Problem” and

a “Contradiction in Literature”.
Example;
“Current global economic crisis seems to be especially hard for
large companies. Therefore, SMEs are facing strong expectations
for their role to be key players when economies will be recovering
from the present global recession. Previous research has also widely
investigated the firms’ characteristics creating profitability. However,
the results obtained are inconclusive or even contradictory.
Consequently, many researchers have concluded that more
research is needed in that area” (Soininen et al., 2012)
Above example states results obtained are inconclusive or contradictory with regard
to the characteristics creating profitability in SMEs.
This is an implied gap to the researcher. That is because if there is a contradiction in
44
Dr Jugindar Singh
literature, there is a prerequisite of further investigation.
THE ‘GAP’ IS BETWEEN WHAT IS KNOWN AND
WHAT IS NOT KNOWN
THE GAP MUST NOT ONLY BE
SHOWN IN THE PROBLEM
STATEMENT BUT ALSO IN THE:
• RESEARCH QUESTIONS
• RESEARCH OBJECTIVES, AND
• HYPOTHESES

Note: The Problem Statement must be linked to Research Objectives

and Questions. Remember Consistency

Problem Research Research Hypothesis

Statement Objectives Questions

Dr Jugindar Singh 45
46
 KEYWORDS THAT SIGNIFY ‘GAP’

• HOWEVER, THERE IS A PAUCITY OF RESEARCH…….

• HOWEVER, THE RELATIONSHIPS ARE STILL UNCLEAR……
• HOWEVER, THERE STILL EXISTS SOME AMBIGUITY……
• HOWEVER, THE EFFECTS HAVE NOT BEEN EMPIRICALLY
TESTED…….
• HOWEVER, PAST RESEARCH HAS IGNORED……..
• HOWEVER INCONSISTENCIES IN THE FINDINGS………

Start the sentence with the word “However”

Eg: However, there is a paucity of research……..
Dr Jugindar Singh 47
 EXAMPLE 5: WAY TO MEASURE THE CONCEPT PRECARI OUS WORKING
CONDIT IO NS IN OIL PALM PLANTAT IONS

Malaysia is facing problem of labor shortage in oil palm plantations and the country is
highly dependent on foreign workers coming from Indonesia and Philippines. The locals
in the regions are not willing to engage in the oil palm plantation since because they
work in the plantations is labeled as dangerous, dirty and distance job. Moreover, the
working and living conditions of the oil palm plantations are very much pathetic and
majority large and smallholdings are filled with foreign workers (citation).

Even though an awareness of working conditions and foreign worker deployment in

the oil palm plantations are available, very less literature that to support this issue
providing evidence to the policy makers. In order to explore the factors related to the
precarious working conditions prevalent in the oil palm plantations an exploratory
study has been conducted in the Sabah region of the eastern part of Malaysia. This
exploratory study made use of direct interviews, focus group discussions and Delphi
technique to arrive at factors ad categories related
to the working and living conditions of the foreign workers in oil palm plantations

Dr Jugindar Singh 48
 EXAMPLE 6:THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOUR AS A FRAMEWORK
FOR WHISTLE -BLOWING INTENTIO NS
Researchers have indicated that employees are important sources for detecting frauds in
institutions (Park & Blenkinsopp, 2009; Micelli et al., 2008; Mak, 2007; Micelli & Near, 2005).
Despite that many praise whistle-blowers as civic heroes or saviours; many also condemn
them as traitors or troublemakers…..

To date, researchers have addressed many antecedent factors of whistle-blowing intentions;

amongst them are human’s personalities (Shawver, 2011; Liyanarachchi & Adler, 2010),
organizational culture (Duska, 2012;Yekta et al., 2010; Sims & Keenan, 1998), ethical culture
(Kaptein, 2011), ethical philosophies (Zakaria et al.)….

However, most of these studies failed to produce a finite set of variables to predict whistle-
blowing intentions (Sim & Keenan, 1998). Nevertheless, several prior studies (Ab Ghani,
2013;Richardson et al) applied TPB as the model in predicting whistle-blowing intention and
found its propositions as a sound and success framework…

Even though whistle-blowing is a worldwide concern, majority of prior studies were

conducted in the western countries, while local studies remained scarce. The situation
motivates this study to explore the issue within the context of Malaysia as there may not be a
“one size fits all” solution. The objectives are to investigate the influence of attitude, subjective
norm and perceived behavioural control on whistle-blowing intentions….
Dr Jugindar Singh 49
 HOW RESEARCH PROBLEMS DIFFER FOR QUANTITATIVE AND
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
Use quantitative research if
your research problem requires
you to:
• Measure variables
• Assess the impact of these
variables on an outcome
• Test theories or broad
explanations
• Apply results to a large number
of people
Used When the Research Problem Calls
for Explanation
Use qualitative research if your
research problem requires you to:
• Learn about the views of the
people you plan to study
• Assess a process over time
• Generate theories based on
participant perspectives
• Obtain detailed information about
a few people or research sites
Used When the Research
Problem Calls for Exploration
50
 TOPIC , PROBLEM, PURPOSE, AND QUESTIONS

A research problem is an
Barriers towards leadership Roles educational issue or problem
Example in the study
General Topic Leadership Roles of Women A research topic is the
Research Lack of women in
broad subject matter being
Problem leadership positions addressed in a study.
To study why low number of A purpose is the major
Purpose
Statement
women in leadership roles in intent or objective of the
Brunei
Does discrimination, support study.
Research
Question
and worklife deter women Research questions are
Specific from leadership positions?
questions the researcher
would like answered or
addressed in the study.
51
 researcher will attempt to 1.3 Research Questions
Specifically states what a

Questions about the relationships

among variables that the investigator
seeks to know
Cresswell,

Example:
answer

Is there a significant difference between (the control

and experimental groups on the independent variable)
and (dependent variable).
Use words like: Does any…. Is There….What relation… What Difference..

Must be clear, specific, narrow, refer to problem and target group of

participants
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Research Questions Examples
The Relationship between Service Quality and Customer
Satisfaction

The research questions can take the form like:

1. Is there a relationship between Responsiveness and
customer satisfaction?

2. Is there a relationship between Assurance and customer

satisfaction?

3. Is there a difference based on gender towards

customer satisfaction?

4. Will Women have higher customrr satisfaction than their male

counterparts?
Quantitative: Use Verbs like: Relate, Influence, Cause, effect
Qualitative:
Module Code and Module Title Use verbs like: Explore, Discover, Describe
Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Example

RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The barriers towards leadership role of Women: A
Quantitative study in Brunei

1. Is there a relationship between demand for family

life and leadership role?
2. Is there a significant relationship between
Resistance to women’s leadership and leadership
role?
3. Does Underinvestment in social capital have an
influence leadership role

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.4 Research Objective
A specific result that a
person or system aims to Example
achieve within a time
frame and with available
resources. To examine the
Quantitative objectives: relationship between
customer satisfaction
Indicate a study's goals (Cresswell)
and customer loyalty

For quantitative study, use the For qualitative study, use the
words: words:
• To examine • To explore
• To evaluate • To understand
• To determine
• andTo
Module Code Moduleassess
Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 The Relationship between Service Quality and
Customer Satisfaction
GENERAL OBJECTIVE
is a clear and concise statement of the

essentially summarizes what needs to

GENERALLY THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS STUDY IS

purpose and aim of the study which

TO EXAMINE THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN

Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
be achieved by the study

1. TO DETERMINE whether there is a

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN Responsiveness and
Customer Satisfaction

2. TO examine whether there is a SIGNIFICANT

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN Assurance and
Customer Satisfaction

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 Examples of research objectives
• To find out what motivates consumers to buy a
product online.
• To study the effect of leadership style on
employees ’ job satisfaction.
• To investigate the relationship between capital
structure and profitability of the firm.
• To establish success factors regarding the
adoption and use of information systems.

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 The barriers towards leadership role of Women: A
Quantitative study in Brunei
GENERAL OBJECTIVE
GENERALLY THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS STUDY IS
TO EXAMINE THE BARRIERS THAT
CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS LEADERSHIP ROLE OF
WOMEN IN BRUNEI
Demands of
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES family life
1. To determine whether there is a relationship
between Demands of family life and leadership
role Resistance to
women’s
2. To examine out whether there is a significant leadership.
relationship between resistance to women’s Underinvestment
leadership and leadership role in social capital.
3. To assess whether underinvestment in social
capital has an influence on leadership role
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 An educated guess or prediction of the relationship
between one or more factors (variables/constructs)
identified in the study in the manner that it can be
tested statistically.
Module Code and Module Title
What is Hypothesis
• Intelligent guess or prediction
• Formal statement of the tentative or
expected prediction
• Explanation of the relationship
between two or more variables
• Predicts the expected results or
outcome of the research
Example: Students who attend lectures
will score higher in the examination
Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Research Hypotheses
.
“Hypothesis is a formal statement that present
the expected relationship between an
independent and dependent variable.”(Creswell, 1994)

Quantitative hypotheses:
1. Predictions that the researcher makes about the expected
relationships among variables

2. Predictions about the population values that the

researcher will estimate based on data from a sample
(Cresswell)
Hypotheses are predictions about the relationship among
two or more variables or groups based on a theory or
previous research (Pittenger, 2003)
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Writing Hypothesis
Types of Hypothesis
1. Null hypotheses (predict no difference or no relationship)
Eg: H01:There is no relationship between exercise and weight loss
2. Alternate hypotheses (opposite of Null)
Eg: H1:There is a relationship between exercise and weight loss

Hypothesis can be:

1. Directional hypotheses (predict direction of difference or
relationship)
Eg: H1:There is a positive relationship between exercise and weight loss

2. Nondirectional hypotheses (predict a difference or

relationship, but not its direction)
Eg: H1:There is a positive relationship between exercise and weight loss
Source: Cresswell
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 The Relationship between Service Quality and
Customer Satisfaction
HYPOTHESES
THERE STILL EXISTS SOME AMBIGUITY
REGARDING THE EFFECT OF Customer Satisfaction
OC ON Customer Loyalty ( ), THUS THE
FOLOWING HYPOTHESIS IS POSITED:

H1: THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP bet.

Responsiveness and Customer Satisfaction

H01: THERE IS NO SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP

bet. Responsiveness and Customer Satisfaction
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.6 Significance of the Study A clear rationale for the
importance of the study..
• A clear and compelling rationale
for the study; Why this study is
• How/why is your study significant significant?
and important?
• Who (what individuals or groups) Why do it now?
can use this new knowledge or
information to change or improve What will it contribute
the present situation? to the existing research
• How will the study contribute to the literature?
THEORETICAL
improvement of the profession?
o To future research? Who will benefit from it
o To policy • Management
o Practice improvements? • Academicians?

Managerial Theoretical Academic

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Factors influencing consumers’
online
shopping in China
Given the tremendous growth of B2C e-commerce in
China, there is a critical need for understanding what drives
Chinese consumers to shop online. As one of the few
large-scale empirical studies on Chinese consumers’ online
shopping behavior, these results will add to the existing
knowledge base. In addition, it will enable e-marketers to
better design their e-marketing strategies that cater to
Chinese consumers’ changing needs and lifestyles and
improve their online shopping experiences and satisfaction.

Example
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Qualitative Research Questions & Hypotheses
1. Qualitative researchers pose research
questions
1. Not objectives
2. Not hypotheses
2. Two types of qualitative research questions
to focus a study's purpose:
1. Central question
Broad question that asks for exploration of the central
phenomenon.
2. Sub-questions
Questions that narrow the focus of the study
Begin with "what" or "how"
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.7 Scope of the Study
Setting the Boundary
The scope of the study will be narrowed.
• Coverage of research
• Research population/respondents
• Geographical location
• Methodology

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.7 Scope of the Study Example
• The industry/sector which is the focus of study
• The area or region? Why?
• The respondents? Who are they? Why?
• Methodology to be employed in data collection
• Unit of analysis – individual or organization?
1.7 Scope of the Study

The scope of research is the population of employees in SMEs in Aktobe. Aktobe is a

city on the West of the Republic of Kazakhstan with population 808900 people
(Agency of Statistics of Aktobe, 2014). According to Agency of Statistics total number
of SME’s in Aktobe is 69800. The employees of SMEs in Aktobe were chosen as
respondents; however, managers of company did not participate in survey. The small
and medium enterprises in Aktobe city were chosen as research evaluation’s unit. This
study considers the companies which work in all fields of different industries. The
SMEs whose employees filled the questionnaires were chosen randomly.
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
1.8 Limitations of the Study
Limitations identify potential weakness or
limitations in the design or methods
Example:
• Convenience sampling limiting the generalizability of the
results,
• Sample size
• Self-reported data,

In this section, limitations are summarized. They may be

described in greater detail and discussed further in another
appropriate section (usually Ch. 5, in the context of interpreting
the results).

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

1.8 Limitations of the Study
The limitations and constraints of the research should
be highlighted.
Some examples:
• Sample size
• Self-reported data
• Sampling method used
• Time available
• Access to study information (e.g., information that requires
special clearances).
• Availability of data.
• Number and type of available scenarios.
• Available models and their capabilities.
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.9 Conceptual and Operational Definitions
• Definitions add precision to your study

• Helping your readers know how certain terms are

being used in the study.

• Define terms in research questions/hypotheses.

• Definitions should be grounded in the literature

(citation used) unless the term is “commonly
understood” or if you have no source, but then re-
consider if it should be a term you define (Theobald, 1991

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.9: Definition of Terms
How Is It Measured?

• Conceptual definition: the abstract

meaning of a variable that is usually
based on theory

• Operational definition: a way of

defining the variable to make it
measurable
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.9 Conceptual and Operational
Definitions
• A conceptual definition
Tells you what the concept means.
How the constructs are related to other constructs
“Dictionary type definition”

• An operational definition.
Tells you how to measure it.
Describe the variables you will use as indicators for
your constructs and the procedures you will use to
observe or measure the variables.
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
Definition of Terminology
The conceptual and operational definitions of key terms in this study are as follows:
Term/s Conceptual Definition
Brand Brand perception is consumers’
perception ability to identify the brand
under different conditions, as
reflected by their brand
recognition or recall
performance (Kotler and
Keller, 2006)
Materialism Materialism was found
associated with the sense of
insecurity and therefore
materialistic people excessively
used their possessions as a tool
of happiness (Sangkhawasi &
Johri, 2007).
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides
Operational Definition
Brand perception in this study
refers to what people are thinking
and saying about a brand.
Measurement: six items adopted
by Chan and Syuhaily (2011)
which was measured using five-
point-ordinal scale
In this study, Materialism refers to
the importance that a consumer
places on the acquisition and
possession of material objects
Measurement: 7 questions
adopted by Aron O’Cass (2009)
which was measured using seven-
point-ordinal scale
 Tutorial
Group Discussion

Review a past study

1. What is the Research Problem
2. What are the research Objectives
3. Identify the Significance

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 Global managers An analysis of the impact of
cultural intelligence on job satisfaction and performance

Exercise

Read a journal
Gap article and
identify the
Problem
Statement

Is there a
Theoretical gap

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 Writing Chapter 1
1.1 Background

The Relationship 1.2 Problem Statement

between 1.3 Objectives
Customer 1.4 Research Questions
Satisfaction and 1.5 Research Hypothesis
Consumer 1.6 Significance
Loyalty in the 1.7 Scope
Banking Industry 1.8 Limitations
in Malaysia
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides
1.9 Definition of Terms
 1.1 BACKGROUND
• Discuss current problems/issues on the
banking industry in Malaysia
• What are the issues or problems? Why is
it important to carry out this study?
• Provide statistics or data to support the
argument
• Key issue to highlight is Customer Loyalty
(Dependent Variable)
1. Broad overview of the subject
2. Introduction to key issues you intend to study
3. Describe the broad foundations of your study— the readers
understand what you intend toTitlestudy
Module Code and Module Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
Factors influencing consumers’ online shopping in
China

Discuss current growth of internet and online shopping

Discuss issues on the online shopping in China
Why is it important to carry out this study?

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.2 Problem Statement

A research problem, in general, refers to

some difficulty which a researcher
experiences in the context of either a
theoretical or practical situation and
wants to obtain a solution for the same.
Kothari & Garg, 2014

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 Cresswell & Plano
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Example of the Flow of Ideas in the Problem Statement
DETERMINANTS OF CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
IN DOMESTIC RETAIL BANKING SECTOR
Flow of Ideas

Justification Deficiencies in Relating the

Topic Research
for Research the Evidence Discussion
Problem
Problem to Audiences
Subject •Concern or issue •Evidence from the •In this body of •How will addressing
area •A problem literature evidence what is what we need to
•Something that •Evidence from missing or what know help
needs a solution practical experience do we need to researchers,
know more about? educators, policy
makers, and other
An Example
individuals?
Researchers restricted •This research is •Study to assess
Intense
Customer the studies of CS in conducted to further factors
competition extend the study to
Satisfaction banking sector to 3 IVs - •Helps Banks to
in banking include two more IVs
in Banks service quality, perceived develop
industry value by customer and i.e. price of services measures
(Abishua, corporate image (Wong, and marketing •Helps Banks
2010) 2011; Culiberg & Rojsek, relationship understand issues
Dr Jugindar Singh
2010) 3.81
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides
 The Relationship between Customer Satisfaction and Consumer Loyalty
in the Banking Industry in Malaysia
Issues
Competition among banks increasing. Globalization ………
New technologies and digitalization placing further pressure on Banks
Retaining and attracting is important to improve growth and market share
(citation) – provide some statistics
Evidence from Literature
Current relaxation of rules allows foreign banks to operate. This results in
increased competition. Therefore, Banks need to improve customer
satisfaction to increase their loyalty (citation). Previous research has also
widely investigated customers satisfaction and loyalty. Previous research has
shown that factors such as service level……
Gap in Literature (Theoretical Gap)
However, the results obtained are inconclusive or even contradictory.
Consequently, many researchers have concluded that more research is needed
in that area” (Soininen et al., 2012)

Audience
This research will look at the relationship between customer satisfaction and
customer loyalty in Malaysia. These results will give Banks insight into
customers needs, enabling them to more effectively chart a course of action to
attract
Module and
Code and Module Titleretain customers . Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
Women Rising: The Unseen Barriers in Malaysia
Issues
• Low number of women in leadership positions. (some statistics)
• Organizations inadvertently undermine this process when they advise women
to proactively seek leadership roles without also addressing policies (citation)
• Low support a woman’s motivation to lead ----
Evidence from Literature
A significant body of research shows that for women, the subtle gender bias that
persists in organizations and in society disrupts the learning cycle at the heart of
becoming a leader (citation)… Research also pointed out discriminatory practices
that equate leadership with behaviors considered more common in men suggest that
women are simply not cut out to be leaders (citation)

Gap in Literature (Theoretical Gap)

Despite the number of studies, it is still unclear whether coaching programs,
mentoring, leadership education programs and organizational support are necessary
to resolve this issue… Furthermore, no similar research has been done in Malaysia

Audience
This research will look at the barriers faced by women in Malaysia. These results will
give women insight into themselves and their organizations, enabling them to more
effectively chart a course to leadership.
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 Factors influencing consumers’ online
shopping in China

Theoretical
gap

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 EXAMPLE 2
RELATIONSHIP AMONG
ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION,
ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND
Organization PERFORMANCE of
SMEs in Malaysia

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.1 BACKGROUND
• Discuss current problems/issues faced by
SMEs relating to performance
• What are the issues or problems? Why is it
important to carry out this study?
• Provide statistics or data to support the
argument
• Key issue to highlight is Entreprenial
Orientation and Organizational culture
1. Broad overview of the subject
2. Introduction to key issues you intend to study
3. Describe the broad foundations of your study— the readers
understand what you intend toTitlestudy
Module Code and Module Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.2 Problem Statement
PREVIOUS RESEARCH HAS RECOGNIZED THE
POSITIVE INFLUENCE OF ORGANIZATIONAL
CULTURE ON PERFORMANCE AND THE EO TO
PERFORMANCE ( ). HOWEVER, THE IMPACT
OF OC HAS NOT BEEN EMPIRICALLY TESTED. IN
ADDITION, THE SPECIFIC ROLE THAT OC MAY
HAVE ON FIRM PERFORMANCE IS UNCLEAR ( ).

•This section focuses mainly on theoretical gap

•What are the ‘gaps’ found in previous literature on the following
relationships:
* Knowledge Management and Performance
* Organizational Culture and Performance
Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh
 1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. IS THERE A SIGNIFICANT
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EO AND
ORGANIZATION PERFORMANCE?

2. IS THERE A SIGNIFICANT
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OC AND
Organization Performance?

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 1.4 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

GENERAL OBJECTIVE
GENERALLY THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS
STUDY IS TO EXAMINE THE
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN
ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE,
ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION
AND Organization PERFORMANCE

Module Code and Module Title Title of Slides Dr Jugindar Singh

 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1. TO DETERMINE THE SIGNIFICANT
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EO AND
PERFORMANCE

2. TO DETERMINE THE SIGNIFICANT

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OC AND
Performance

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 1.5 HYPOTHESES

THE FOLOWING HYPOTHESIS IS

POSITED:
• H1: there is significant relationship
between EO and firm performance

• H2: there is significant relationship

between OC and firm performance

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 • EACH HYPOTHESIS IS FORMULATED
AFTER THE DISCUSSION ON THE
SPECIFIC ‘GAPS’ OF THE
RELATIONSHIP

• EACH HYPOTHESIS CONTAINS

RESEARCH VARIABLES WHICH ARE
MEASURABLE

• EACH HYPOTHESIS SPECIFIES HOW

THE VARIABLES ARE RELATED
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 RESEARCH FRAMEWORK

• INDICATES THE RELATIONSHIPS AMONG

THE VARIABLES

• FRAMEWORK IS DEVELOPED BASED ON

THE ‘GAP’ IDENTIFIED BY THE LITERATURE

• FRAMEWORK MUST BE SUPPORTED BY

SOME PROVEN THEORIES (UNDERPINNING
OR UNDERLINING THEORIES)

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 Framework

Entrepreneurial H1
Orientation

Performance
H2

Organization
Culture

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 Additional Notes

Problem Statement

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 What is a Research Problem?
• A well defined and a structured research problem is
the heart of the research project.
• Missing element in existing literature. Gap that you fill with your
research approach
• Difference between what existed (knowledge) and what is required
(what should be done)
• A research gap can be an extension or challenge in the existing
variables, theories, assumptions
• Mixed previous results (+ve/-ve) or conflicts/contradictory results
• Conflict in theoretical approach, conflict in empirical methods
• Missing pieces in research literature. Area that has not been
explored of under explored. This could be population (size etc),
research method, data collection/analysis method, research
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96 variables
Dr Jugindar Singh
 HOW TO SHOW A ‘GAP’?

• REVIEW OF PAST RESEARCH/LITERATURE

WILL REVEAL TO US WHAT HAVE ALREADY
BEING DONE, BEING RESEARCHED AND
BEING KNOWN

• THEREFORE THE ‘GAP’ IS BETWEEN WHAT IS

KNOWN AND WHAT IS NOT KNOWN

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 WHAT CONSTITUTE A ‘GAP’?
• SAYING SOMETHING NOBODY HAS SAID BEFORE

• CARRYING OUT EMPIRICAL WORK THAT HAS NOT BEEN DONE

BEFORE

• MAKING A SYNTHESIS THAT HAS NOT BEEN MADE BEFORE

• USING ALREADY KNOWN MATERIAL BUT WITH A NEW

INTERPRETATION

• TRYING OUT SOMETHING IN THIS COUNTRY THAT HAS PREVIOUSLY

ONLY BEEN DONE IN OTHER COUNTRIES

• TAKING A PARTICULAR TECHNIQUE AND APPLYING IT IN A NEW

AREA

•Module BRINGING
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 Research Gap: Example 1
The researcher should have to have a “Practical Problem” and a “Contradiction
in Literature”.

example;
“Current global economic crisis seems to be especially hard for large
companies. Therefore, SMEs are facing strong expectations for their role to be
key players when economies will be recovering from the present global
recession. Previous research has also widely investigated the firms’
characteristics creating profitability. However, the results obtained are
inconclusive or even contradictory. Consequently, many researchers have
concluded that more research is needed in that area” (Soininen et al., 2012)

Above example states results obtained are inconclusive or even contradictory

with regard to the characteristics creating profitability in SMEs.
This is an implied gap to the researcher. That is because if there is a
contradiction in literature, there is a prerequisite of further investigation.

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 Research Gap: Example 2
In recent years there has been an increased focus on the relationship between
firm’s strategic orientation and firm performance (Madsen, 2007). Prior studies
have generally found a positive relationship between Entrepreneurial
Orientation (EO) and firm performance (Jantunen et al., 2005; Wiklund and
Shepherd, 2005; Madsen, 2007). However, there are also studies where such
a relationship has not been found (Smart and Conant, 1994). One reason
might be that the measure that has been used to assess the firm performance
has typically been a combination of both profitability and growth measures
(Covinand Slevin, 1989; Wiklund, 1999; Avlonitis and Salavou,
2007).

Above example once more confirms the prerequisite of further investigation

because results are contradictory (I.e. positive relationships and no
relationships).

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 Quantitative Research

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 Qualitative Research
Chapter 1
1.1 Background
1.2 Statement of the Problem
1.3 Purpose of the study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Significance of Research
1.6 Scope
1.7 Limitations
1.8 Definition of Terms
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 Statement of the Problem

• You will provide one concise paragraph

discussing your research problem.
• Be specific in describing this problem.
• For example, you might discuss the
problem of the recent increase in
absenteeism among students and the
resulting risks to their performance

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 Purpose
• Discuss in one paragraph what you will do in the
research.
• This is a brief statement of how you will investigate the
research problem.
• For example, the purpose of this study is to examine
the prevalence of absenteeism among students which
will lead to a failure in exams and intervention model
to be used by Universities

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 Factors influencing international Example

students’ absenteeism

The purpose of the study is to investigate the factors that

influence international master students’ absenteeism rate
in Malaysia from a student perspective and to obtain an
understanding of strategies and changes made by the
Universities to address the challenges of the increase in
absenteeism of international students

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 Research Questions

 Central question
• a broad question that asks for an exploration of the
central phenomenon or concept in a study
 Sub questions
– Sub-divides central question into more specific
topics questions
– Limited number

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 Scripts to help design qualitative
central questions and sub-questions:
Central Question Script: (usually write only one)
“What does it mean to ______________ (central
phenomenon)?”

“How would _________ (participants) describe

__________ (central phenomenon)?“

Sub-Question Script:
“(What) ______________ (aspect) does ______
(participant) engage in as a
_____________(central phenomenon)?”
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Research Methods for Degree Study
 Factors influencing international students’
absenteeism Example

Research Questions

The study is guided by the following research questions:

1. What are the factors that influence international

students’ increasing absenteeism?

2. How can the University use this knowledge to overcome

the increase in absenteeism of international students?

Example
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Research Methods for Degree Study