FRESEARCH QUESTION TIPS – CONSIDER THE SUGGESTED WORDING BELOW AS STARTING POINTS FOR WRITING YOUR RESEARCH QUESTIONS. Overall tip: Even if you think you know the outcome of the research investigation you must avoid prejudging outcomes. First: Consider the following examples of research questions and see if you can word your research focus in one of these ways. • An investigation into the relationship between X and Y. For example 'an investigation into the relationship between teacher self-belief and learning outcomes'. • A study of the effects of increased class time on learning outcomes for English language proficiency. • Does increased class time in a discipline area lead to improved learning outcomes? • In what ways do skills with social media impact on learning outcomes in secondary schools? • Is there a relationship between motivation to learn and learning outcomes? • What is the relationship between parental values and beliefs towards learning and learning outcomes? Second: How can you gain new knowledge that will enable you to make a judgement related to your research question? To answer this you need to consider your research paradigm or ways of making meaning of knowledge (see Session 5 presentation). For this knowledge you need to read from the research methods references about 'how to decide on the best research design'. Third: The 'research method' should include ways of gaining new knowledge. These ways need to meet research standards including ethics. The following is a very small sample of strategies for obtaining data. • Survey questionnaires • Document analysis • Observation based on pre-determined questions • Interviews • Experiments • Introducing an effect • Reflective diaries • Focus groups • Mapping • Drawings • Fieldwork • Narrative analysis • Archival materials……….etc Fourth: The tests questions for your research design are: 1. Will the data I obtain enable me to answer my research question? 2. Are my research instruments valid and reliable (see Cohen for reference) 3. What sampling procedures will you use? Is your sample representative? Is your sample random? Is your sample gender balanced? Is your sample a convenience group? 4. What is the significance of your research? 5. What are the limitations of your research study? Refer: Cohen et all and the research methods books on the reading list.