Formulating a Research Problem in Education and Language Learning Research: A Comprehensive Guide

This article by Dr. Mahmoud M. S. Abdallah provides a comprehensive guide to formulating a research problem in education and language learning, particularly for TESOL/TEFL researchers. It emphasizes the importance of a well-defined research problem as the cornerstone of any research project, guiding the selection of methods, data collection, and overall research trajectory. The article outlines key sources of research problems, including practical classroom challenges, gaps in existing literature, and broader societal issues. It offers practical steps for identifying and formulating research problems, such as starting with personal interests, reviewing literature, and ensuring the problem's relevance and feasibility. The article also highlights the significance of precision, empirical testability, and relevance in crafting a research problem. Through illustrative examples and theoretical frameworks, it aims to equip researchers with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of early-stage research design, ultimately contributing to the advancement of knowledge and improvement of educational practices.