Using the 5Ws to Develop a Research Question

Summary

The video explains how using the 5W criteria—who, what, when, where, and why—can help refine a topic into a research question. By identifying these elements, researchers can narrow or broaden their scope effectively. For example, an investigation about mandatory flu vaccines for schoolchildren in Kansas can be adjusted by changing the 5Ws to suit broader or narrower research needs. This method helps focus searches and manage information, preventing overwhelming or limited results. The video encourages refining research questions before starting investigations to ensure relevance and clarity.

Takeaways

• 🔍 The 5W criteria help add context to investigations and turn topics into research questions.
• 👤 'Who' describes the individual or population under investigation.
• ❓ 'What' focuses on the specific aspect or element impacting the 'Who'.
• 🕒 'When' refers to the time frame of the investigation.
• 🌍 'Where' focuses on the geographical location of the study.
• 🤔 'Why' explains the importance or significance of the investigation, though it's not necessarily part of the final research question.
• 💉 Example: For a research topic on mandatory flu vaccines for schoolchildren in Kansas, the research question becomes: 'Should the flu vaccine be required for schoolchildren in Kansas?'
• 📏 If a research question is too broad, it can lead to an overwhelming amount of information; if too narrow, it may lack sufficient data.
• 🎯 Refining a research question helps focus the search and narrow down relevant information.
• 🚀 The 5W criteria can also be adjusted to broaden or narrow the scope, making the investigation manageable and task-appropriate.

Q & A

What are the '5W' criteria in research?

The '5W' criteria consist of Who, What, When, Where, and Why, which are used to add context to an investigation and turn a topic into a research question.

How does the 'Who' aspect contribute to a research question?

The 'Who' describes the individual or population being investigated, focusing the research on a specific group.

What does the 'What' element specify in a research question?

The 'What' describes a specific aspect or element that directly impacts the 'Who,' narrowing down the investigation's focus.

Why is the 'When' important in shaping a research question?

The 'When' provides a time frame for the investigation, helping limit the scope to a specific period, such as the present or historical context.

How does the 'Where' influence a research question?

The 'Where' pinpoints a geographical location for the research, narrowing the investigation to a specific area, such as a city or country.

What is the purpose of the 'Why' in research planning?

The 'Why' explains the reason the investigation is important or meaningful. While not always part of the final research question, it informs the scope of the project.

How can the 5W criteria help in narrowing or broadening a research question?

The 5W criteria can be adjusted to either broaden or narrow the scope of a research question, making it more appropriate for the length and depth of the investigation.

What is an example of a research question created using the 5W criteria?

An example is: 'Should the flu vaccine be required for schoolchildren in Kansas?' This question is formulated by considering the 'Who' (schoolchildren), 'What' (mandatory flu vaccines), 'When' (the present), and 'Where' (Kansas).

Why is it important to refine your research question before starting an investigation?

Refining the research question helps focus the search, making the flow of information more manageable and ensuring the scope fits the task.

What are the consequences of having a research question that is too broad or too narrow?

If a research question is too broad, it may overwhelm the researcher with information. If it's too narrow, there may not be enough relevant information available.