3 Insert Your Chapter Title Here The Research Problem Author name here for Edited books

What Is a Research Problem? Something to evaluate or research Usually a problem or issue Something that cannot be answered with a “yes” or “no” Something that requires digging for information and some type of analysis

Research Problem An evaluation plan and process do not exist for the Wiggles and Giggles classes at the agency. Does this meet the criteria for a research problem?

Purpose Statement Completes the statement “The purpose of this study is to . . .” Example: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Wiggles and Giggles classes.

Research Question Take the problem and purpose, and restate them in the form of a question. Examples: Have the objectives of the class been achieved? What is the satisfaction level of the adults in the class? What is the satisfaction level of the adults with the instructors’ performances in conducting the class? What recommendations do the adults have to improve the class?

Characteristics of a Good Research Question Must be feasible, meaning that data can be collected on it Should be significant Should be clear \QQAU: Will information be added next to Definitions? XQQ\

Good or Not? How are the teen programs affecting (decreasing or increasing) the local criminal activity in the community? Question criteria: Feasible Significant Clear (definitions)

Justification So what? (evaluation and scientific method) Explains significance Children and obesity? Nationally Locally Home

Research Designs Experimental Correlation Survey

Experimental Design Examine cause-and-effect relationship: If A is done, then B will occur. Measure variables Manipulate variable (continued)

Experimental Design (continued) Type of paddle given to each beginning kayaker Double-blade paddle Single-blade paddle Variable A = Type of paddle Variable B = Five beginning kayaking skills Two groups—each group with a different type of paddle

The Experiment Group 1: Double-blade paddle Takes classes and is tested for five skills Group 2: Single-blade paddle Comparison of test results at end of class to determine which paddle is better for beginners

Figure 3.3 DO NOT EDIT [fig 3.3, id # 354174]

Correlation Design Examine the strength of a relationship Examine two variables Do not manipulate a variable Examine the relationship in a real-world setting

Correlation Example What is the relationship between time spent studying and grade on the exam? This question contains two variables: time and grade. Researchers must collect data and analyze data.

Correlation Coefficient Number from analysis representing a relationship Number between +1.0 and –1.0 Preferred number = above plus or minus 0.80

Sign The sign (+ or –) indicates direction of variables. Positive: As one goes up, the other goes up. Negative: As one goes up, the other goes down. \\QQAU: Is this an appropriate design for evaluation of the Wiggles and Giggles class? Xxqq\\This goes with the slide about time spent studying and grade….new example

Survey Design Gather information about opinions, attitudes, beliefs, and preferences Measure multiple variables Do not manipulate variables Describe the group

Survey Is this an appropriate design for the evaluation of the Wiggles and Giggles classes? Have the objectives of the class been achieved? What is the satisfaction level of the adults in the class? What is the satisfaction level of the adults with the instructors’ performances in conducting the class? What recommendations do the adults have to improve the class?

Qualitative Research Designs Three design options: Ethnographic design Historical design Case study design Collect data in the form of words, pictures, and descriptions—not numbers

Ethnographic Design This design is used to document the everyday life experience of an individual, group, or culture. The researcher can live with the subjects. Example: Living the life of a river guide or a gang member within the subculture

Historical This design is used to document the development of an event, activity, or phenomenon through time. Example: Documenting the development of snowboarding into an Olympic sport

Case Study This design is used to gather comprehensive data on a particular individual or a small group. Example: Gathering data on low-income single mothers

Action Research Action research focuses on resolving an internal problem of the agency. Results do not apply beyond the agency.