Problem
Many students confuse the overarching research questions and survey/interview questions that are asked participants during the study. The overarching research question helps a researcher answer the problem and fulfill the research purpose. And there can be more than one overarching research question. Research questions inform the researcher about what research methods are appropriate to answer the problem and purpose of the research. The research question is what links the current knowledge or state to the issue that the researcher intends to explore (Grant & Osanloo, 2014). The questions provide orientation and inform methods, ensuring alignment. The research question provides focus and direction, and direction and focus from the research question enable the researcher to gather and analyze the correct type of data to conduct analysis and draw appropriate conclusions (Bryant, 2003). By writing good research questions, the research maintains alignment with the problem and purpose of the research. In turn, the research questions inform the methods used in the research. The research questions ensure alignment and fulfillment of the problem and purpose of the research.
Task
a) What is the purpose of research questions?
b) How are research questions different from interview questions?
c) How are research questions aligned with the purpose statement?
References
a) Bryant, M. T. (2003). The portable dissertation advisor. Corwin Press.
b) Grant, C., & Osanloo, A. (2014). Understanding, Selecting, and Integrating a Theoretical Framework in Dissertation Research: Creating the Blueprint for Your "House." Administrative Issues Journal: Education, Practice & Research, 4(2), 12-26.