02 Formulating research question

Summary

This session covers the fundamentals of formulating a research question in biomedical research. It explains how research questions arise from uncertainties in health issues, which lead to objectives and study designs. The script also details the process of refining research questions, distinguishing between descriptive and analytical questions, and the importance of defining measurable outcomes. Key steps in formulating a research question are highlighted, along with the role of hypothesis testing. The session concludes with the significance of clear objectives and proper language in research, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions for successful research outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 A well-formulated research question is the foundation of any research study, and it should arise from addressing uncertainties or needs within a population.
• 😀 A research question should be specific, understandable in everyday language, and linked to potential actions if answered.
• 😀 Research questions can originate from multiple sources, including literature review, new technologies, peer group discussions, and careful observations in real-life settings.
• 😀 There are two types of research questions: descriptive (focused on measurements or quantities) and analytical (involving comparison or interventions).
• 😀 Descriptive questions measure the extent of an issue or phenomenon, while analytical questions involve testing hypotheses or comparing groups.
• 😀 The process of framing a research question involves several steps: literature review, raising questions, peer review, defining exposures and outcomes, and refining the question.
• 😀 A clear and measurable definition of both the exposure (e.g., exercise) and outcome (e.g., fasting blood sugar) is crucial when refining a research question.
• 😀 A good research hypothesis should be simple, specific, and defined in advance. It should focus on one exposure and one outcome and be related to the primary objective of the study.
• 😀 A research hypothesis is necessary only for analytical questions that involve comparisons, such as whether one intervention or group performs better than another.
• 😀 Research questions and hypotheses must be tested against the FINER criteria (Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, and Relevant) to ensure they are worthwhile and practical for investigation.
• 😀 The translation of a research question into a statement of objectives requires careful use of scientific and epidemiological language. Objectives should clearly define whether the study is descriptive or analytical.

Q & A

What is the first step in biomedical research, according to the script?

The first step in biomedical research is formulating a research question, which helps address uncertainties or needs in a specific area.

How does a research question impact the study design?

A clear research question helps in choosing an optimal study design, identifying the target population, determining the outcomes to measure, and defining when these outcomes should be measured.

What are the key sources from which research questions can arise?

Research questions can arise from scholarship in the area of research interest, new ideas and techniques, careful observation in clinical or scientific work, and guidance from mentors.

What is the difference between descriptive and analytical research questions?

Descriptive questions involve measurements of quantities without comparison groups or interventions, whereas analytical questions involve comparison groups or interventions to test a specific hypothesis.

What is the 'so what?' test for a research question, and what does it evaluate?

The 'so what?' test, represented by the acronym FINER, evaluates if a research question is Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, and Relevant.

What is a research hypothesis, and when is it used?

A research hypothesis is a specific version of the research question that summarizes the study elements and is used for statistical tests of significance. It is typically used for analytical questions involving comparison groups.

What makes a good research hypothesis?

A good research hypothesis should be simple, specific, and stated in advance, focusing on one exposure and one outcome with clear definitions of study variables.

How is a research question translated into study objectives?

A research question is translated into study objectives by stating them in scientific and epidemiological terms, often dividing them into primary and secondary objectives, and using verbs that reflect either descriptive or analytical study aims.

What is the significance of the verb choice in study objectives?

The verb choice in study objectives is important as it indicates the nature of the study: descriptive studies often use 'estimate' while analytical studies use 'determine' or similar action-oriented verbs.

What is the purpose of specifying study objectives in research?

Specifying study objectives helps clarify what the research aims to measure or compare, and ensures that the research question is answered using appropriate methods and in a focused manner.