Information Literacy: 1. The research question: Introduction

Source: Steely Library NKU

Developing a good research question can sometimes be the most difficult part of the research process. Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment. When in doubt, consult with your instructor.

Understand your assignment

Consider:

• Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own?
• How many pages/words do you need to write?
• Do you need to include specific types of sources?
• How much time do you have to conduct your research?
• Is currency of information important?

In your research you will have to deal with both simple and complex questions.

• Usually you use the following three types of questions:
• Factual questions, you can easily find them. You are looking for a clear answer. A good source of information is very important.
  • Example: What was the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of the Netherlands in 2020?           
• Orientative questions, questions that should give you a broader picture of your subject
  • Example: You want to investigate what effect the use of smartphones has in traffic..
    Possible orientating questions can then be:
    - What is already known about smartphones in relation to traffic?
    - What has been in the news about smartphone usage in traffic over the last three months?

• Research questions, more complex questions that are usually divided into sub-questions.
  This requires a structured approach to achieve a good result.
  • Example: What is the influence of the refugee problem on the popularity of tourist destinations?