Assignment Details
Summer I 2026 Research Methods II
Introduction
This is a brief description of the proposed area of study. Include up to three sentences.
The Research Problem
This is an area of conflict, concern, or controversy. A research problem is just that: a PROBLEM. Note that a problem is not a gap in the literature and is not the purpose of your study. Present the research problem itself in a precise and actionable manner, starting with the phrase:
“The problem to be addressed in this study is…”
This statement should describe the gap between what is currently observed and what is desired, emphasizing its significance to the organization, system, or population impacted.
For instance, your research problem statement might state:
“The problem to be addressed in this study is the lack of professional development opportunities for teachers in underfunded schools in a large urban school district in the South.”
Your research problem section should include the one-sentence research problem statement that clearly states the problem, followed by a few additional sentences that provide context or explanation to help the reader fully understand the issue you are addressing.
Background and Justification
Provide evidence from the literature and experience showing that the problem exists and the relevance. Include at least two references. This section should be just two to three paragraphs.
Deficiencies in the Evidence
Include a brief discussion that details the deficiency or lack of evidence in the literature. This is where you explain the gap in the literature — what we do not know about the research problem. This section should be just one paragraph.
Audience
Discuss who is affected and who benefits. This section should be just one paragraph.
Assignment directions and grading rubric is below:
Assignment 1 – Statement of the Problem RES8200‑1.doc
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