Glossary of key terms used in educational research: 5 key terms used in research.

Introduction

Educational research refers to the scientific study of education. It assists teachers, students, and policymakers in better understanding and solving educational challenges. Researchers employ specific essential terms when conducting a systematic investigation. Knowing this terminology is essential for writing, reading, and comprehending research. Here 5 key terms used in research are discussed.

Research problem

In educational research a research problem concerns the functioning of a broader area of the field studied, whereas a topic or title or statement of the problem is the verbal statement of the problem. A research topic is the main idea or question that a researcher wants to study. It is the first step in any research. Many scholars understand that identification of a problem means to select a topic of research or statement of the problem; it is wrong to think so. A topic or statement of a problem and a research problem are not synonyms, but they are inclusive. The following steps are to be followed while identifying a research problem.

1. Step 1: Determine the field of research.
2. Step 2: Choose a research field where you have specialization.
3. Step 3: Do a literature review related to your research field.
4. Step 4: Prioritize your field of study once you have done the literature review completely.
5. Step 5: Draw an analogy and insights in identifying the problem or use personal experience of the field in locating the problem. Take the opinions of your research guide and discuss them.
6. Step 6: Make clear and pinpoint the research problem that is to be investigated.

Hypothesis

Every scientific study begins with a problem that needs to be solved. Once the problem is clear, the researcher suggests a possible answer that can be tested. This possible answer is called a hypothesis. Simply put, a hypothesis is a suggested solution to the problem. It describes a relationship between two or more variables that can be tested.

Research objective in educational research

A research objective is a clear and simple statement describing what you hope to achieve in your study. It helps you clarify the purpose, direction, and focus of your research. Research objectives are clear and specific. They are measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. In simple words, a research objective answers, “What do I want to find out through this study?”

Research questions in educational research

A research question is a precise, focused, and answerable question that defines what a researcher seeks to investigate in a study. It guides the research by narrowing down the problem into a specific inquiry that can be explored using data, analysis, or interpretation. The following are key points of a research question:

1. It is derived from the research problem.
2. It is clear, specific, and concise.
3. It shows what the study will focus on.
4. It can be explored through qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.

Review of related literature in educational research

A review of related literature helps the researcher see what has already been studied, what ideas and methods have been used, and what areas still need attention. It also helps in forming clear research questions, goals, and ideas, making the study more meaningful and important. Literature sources can be primary, like journal articles and dissertations, or secondary, like textbooks and review papers. The review might then point out a gap, like a lack of studies on the proposed study, which makes the new study necessary. The purpose of the review of related literature is as follows:

• To learn what is already known and what theories exist.
• To not repeat work that has already been done.
• To find areas where more research is needed.
• To create a base for the current study.
• To explain why new research is needed.

The sources of review of related literature—

• Primary sources: These include original research articles, dissertations, and theses.
• Secondary sources: These include textbooks, review articles, and reports.