1 Make Observations and Ask Questions
The scientific method begins with observation. You observe and identify a phenomenon or problem that you wish to investigate, and subsequently formulate a research question. As an illustration, one may inquire, “What is the total number of plant species that can be observed within the confines of my backyard?”
Learning Objectives
After completing this topic, you will be able to:
- explore how observations lead to the formulation of research questions.
- formulate clear and focused research questions that address the identified research problem and guide the research process.
Careful observation and curiosity are both integral to the process of scientific inquiry. They play significant roles in shaping scientific investigations, generating research questions, and advancing our understanding of the natural world. There are many examples of how careful observation and curiosity have led to a scientific breakthrough. For instance, Fleming’s discovery of penicillin[1] (See Box 1.1) stands as a testament to the power of careful observation and the importance of curiosity in scientific breakthroughs. Video 1.1 shows another example of Charles Darwin’s careful observation and curiosity, which led to the development of the theory of evolution[2]. These examples highlights how a scientist’s ability to notice and question can lead to significant advancements in science.
In 1928, Fleming, a Scottish bacteriologist, was conducting research on Staphylococcus bacteria at St. Mary’s Hospital in London. He had left a petri dish containing Staphylococcus bacteria uncovered on his laboratory bench while he was on vacation. Upon returning, he noticed that mold had grown on the dish, and to his surprise, he observed that the bacterial colonies around the mold appeared to be dying. Fleming’s careful observation and curiosity prompted him to investigate further. He noticed that the mold belonged to the Penicillium genus and hypothesized that the mold was producing a substance that inhibited the growth of bacteria. He conducted a series of experiments to isolate and purify this substance, which he named penicillin. This accidental discovery, resulting from Fleming’s keen observation and curiosity, laid the foundation for the development of the first widely-used antibiotic. Fleming’s subsequent research and the work of other scientists led to the mass production of penicillin, which revolutionized medicine by providing an effective treatment for bacterial infections and saving countless lives.
VIDEO 1.1: Development of the Theory of Evolution by Charles Darwin [3 mins, 18 sec]
Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution is another example of a scientific breakthrough influenced by careful observation and curiosity. During his voyage on the HMS Beagle, Darwin made numerous observations of diverse species and their adaptations to different environments. He was curious about the patterns he observed, such as the variations among finches on the Galapagos Islands. These observations and his curiosity led him to develop the theory of evolution through natural selection, which revolutionized our understanding of the origin and diversification of species.
“Charles Darwin’s Observations | Evolution | Biology | FuseSchool” by FuseSchool – Global Education is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0
So then, what are the key characteristics that contribute to the formulation of a high-quality research question? First of all, let us shift our attention towards some practical considerations. A good research question is one that:
- you are interested in
- When you are enthusiastic about the topic in question, you are more likely to stay motivated, focused, and engaged throughout the research process. Know yourself. For instance, if you have weak microscopy skills and have headaches whenever you look through a microscope, you may not want to pursue a meiofauna study.
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you have the resources to answer
- It is critical to assess whether you have the resources you need (financial, technological, facilities, assistance, etc.) to effectively respond to the research question. What is your plan if you do not have the necessary resources at that point in time? Are you going to apply for a research grant to cover the sampling or experiment costs? Have you located any institutions that have the facilities you require for your experiment?
- you have access to the data you require
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It is essential to consider if you have access to the required data or samples to address your research question. Limited access or limited sample size can impact the scope and feasibility of the study. For instance, research on an endangered species can be critical for developing a conservation strategy and making informed decisions. However, if you have difficulties locating the species or obtaining enough samples for hypothesis testing, your efforts may be in vain because there is not enough evidence to draw a meaningful conclusion.
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- can be implemented properly
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A good research question should be realistic and can be implemented within the constraints of the research context. Consider factors such as time, logistical considerations, ethical considerations, and any other practical limitations. It is important to formulate research questions that are realistic and achievable within the limitations of available resources and current scientific understanding.
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- has a specific objective
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It should state what you aim to achieve, what aspect you want to investigate, or what knowledge gap you want to address. A specific objective helps guide your research process, focuses your efforts, and facilitates the evaluation of research outcomes.
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Consider these criteria for a good research question when formulating one. This will allow you to set realistic goals, plan properly, and increase your chances of successfully answering your research questions within the available resources and limitations. Furthermore, a good research question often seeks to close significant knowledge gaps, contribute to current theories, or have practical implications in various fields of study or real-world settings. Consider whether your research question covers vital topics and advances knowledge about your field of study. BOX 1.2 and BOX 1.3 provides some examples of practical and impractical research questions. Check each out to see why they are practical or impractical!
BOX 1.2: Examples of practical research questions
These examples illustrates research questions that address important topics and can be practically implemented with the necessary resources and data accessibility. Click on the drop-downs to read more.
These examples illustrate research questions that are impractical due to their scale, feasibility, resource requirements, or the complexity of the ecological systems involved. The research question may be overly specific, lack broader relevance, requires long-term efforts, or involve impractical measurements or data collection methods. Click on the drop-downs to read more.
Check Point 1.1
Check out the clip below and answer the questions to learn what makes a good research question.
Adopted from ”Three Criteria to Evaluate Research Questions” by the UCLA Library is licensed under a CC-BY 3.0 license.
Problem Statement
In many cases, people tend to start asking questions when encountering a problematic situation. A problem statement serves as the foundation for every research project. It clarifies why the research is important given our limited time and resources. A problem statement should not be too broad or ambiguous as it will be difficult to set an exact goal and complete the tasks in the period allocated for the study. This is especially crucial for student scientists who are also limited by study period.
The problem statement should do three things:
- Describe the problem in detail.
- Identify the knowledge gap about the problem and its solutions.
- Explain the repercussions of failing to find a solution to justify the significance of your research.
Exercises 1.1
Imagine that you are going to start a research-based postgraduate study. Pick a topic that interests you. Identify the phenomenon or problem you wish to investigate. Formulate a good research question that is realistic and achievable within the available resources and current scientific understanding.
- Fleming, Alexander. "On the antibacterial action of cultures of a Penicillium, with special reference to their use in the isolation of B. influenzae." British Journal of Experimental Pathology, vol. 10, no. 3, 1929, pp. 226-236. ↵
- Darwin, C. (1859). On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or the Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life. John Murray. ↵
The active acquisition of information from a primary source, either through our senses, or data recorded during an experiment using scientific tools and instruments
A clear, concise, and specific question that guides the research process and defines the focus of the study.
The specific area or aspect where existing knowledge, research, or understanding falls short or is incomplete.
A concise and clear description of an issue or challenge that needs to be addressed or solved through research or problem-solving efforts.
