Starting the Research Process
Formulating a specific, applicable research problem statement is an important step in beginning a research process. The problem statement defines the focus of the research study, dictates what methods and tools will be used, and sets the stage for all subsequent elements of the research process. Because of this, it is necessary to put a great deal of thought into the problem statement to ensure that the rest of the research process will be well planned and appropriate to the problem at hand.
This week’s Discussion asks you to identify evidence-based practice problems that can be addressed using quantitative research methods. Based on the practice problem you select, formulate a quantitative research problem statement. In this Discussion, you are also given the opportunity to evaluate your colleagues’ problem statements. Please refer to this week’s Learning Resources for appropriate and scholarly examples of research problem statements and how they inform the rest of the research process.
To prepare:
Determine a nursing practice problem that is of interest to you and that is appropriate for a quantitative research study. Note: You will continue to use this problem in the Discussions over the next several weeks.
Using the Walden Library and other credible sources, locate and read two or three articles that address your practice problem. (you must cite the articles read in this assignment)
With your practice problem in mind, review the Learning Resources and media presentations focusing on the strategies presented for generating a research problem statement.
Ask yourself: What is the importance of my practice problem to nursing, research, and theory? How might addressing this problem bring about positive social change? How will investigating this problem support evidence-based practice?
By Tomorrow 09/06/17, write a minimum of 550 words in APA format with a minimum of 3 references from the list below which include the level one headings as numbered below:
Post
1) A proposed research problem statement ( it has to be related to nursing for example: could be on diabetes, heart failure or more …)
2) Including sufficient information to make your focus clear and explaining how addressing this problem may bring about positive social change.
Required Media
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Research methods for evidence-based practice: Selecting a research topic and developing a hypothesis. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Note: The approximate length of this media piece is 13 minutes.
In this week’s video, Dr. Leiyu Shi discusses the characteristics of a good research hypothesis and details the steps in developing a hypothesis that can be tested through research.
Laureate Education. (2011). Important events in clinical research history. Retrieved from http://mym.cdn.laureate-media.com/2dett4d/Walden/CLRA/6100/01/mm/timeline/index.html
This timeline identifies and describes key historical events related to the development of clinical research throughout the ages.