Microsoft Word research method fm doc

3.3 Analyzing the problem 
A systematic analysis of the problem, completed jointly by the researchers, health workers, 
managers, and community representatives is a very crucial step in designing the research 
because it: 
• Enables those concerned to bring together their knowledge of the problem, 
• Clarifies the problem and the possible factors that may be contributing to it, 
• Facilitates decisions concerning the focus and scope of the research. 
 
3.4 Formulating the problem statement 
 
After identifying, selecting and analyzing the problem, the next major section in a research 
proposal is “statement of the problem” 

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Research methodology 
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a) Why is it important to state and define the problem well? 
 
Because a clear statement of the problem: 
 
ƒ
Is 
the 
foundation
for the further development of the research proposal (research 
objectives, methodology, work plan, etc); 
ƒ
Makes it easier to find information and reports of similar studies from which your 
own study design can benefit; 
ƒ
Enables the researcher to systematically point out why the proposed research on 
the problem should be undertaken and what you hope to achieve with the study 
results. 
 
b) Points that need to be considered for justifying the selected research problem 
A health problem selected to be studied has to be justified in terms of its: 
ƒ
Being a current and existing problem which needs solution 
ƒ
Being a widely spread problem affecting a target population 
ƒ
Effects on the health service programmes 
ƒ
Being a problem which concerns the planners, policy makers and the 
communities at large.