Formulating research questions in social science research

Abstract

Formulating clear and focussed research questions is a fundamental step in social science research because the questions shape the design, methodology and analysis of the entire study. Well-crafted research questions define the scope of inquiry, align with methodological approaches and contribute to theoretical advancement. To facilitate this process, several frameworks have been developed to guide the creation of primary and secondary research questions in the social sciences. Potential frameworks guiding the formulation of research questions include Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, Relevant, Management, Appropriate, Potential Value, Publishable, Systematic (FINERMAPS), Population, Exposure, Outcome (PEO), Population, Interest, Comparison or Context, Outcome, Time (PICOT) and Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, Research type (SPIDER). Each of these offers a structured approach to identifying key components of a research problem, ensuring clarity, precision and relevance. Secondary research questions derived from these frameworks help deepen the investigation by addressing subcomponents of the main problem. The aim of this article is to demonstrate how social science researchers can utilise these frameworks to construct researchable, specific questions that address complex social phenomena. A literature review is conducted following an abstract conceptual design within an interpretivist research paradigm. The article comprises an outline of common challenges experienced when formulating research questions, including scope definition, ethical considerations and balancing feasibility with academic rigour. Practical examples are provided illustrating how FINERMAPS, PEO, PICOT and SPIDER can be utilised in the formulation of research questions. By critically examining these frameworks, this article equips researchers with the tools to overcome challenges and improve the formulation of research questions, leading to robust and insightful social science research.

Transdisciplinary contribution: The significance of inter-, multi- and transdisciplinarity in the formulation of research questions in the social sciences is expounded by accentuating the ways in which the knowledge domains and methodologies of multiple disciplines create a comprehensive understanding of complex social phenomena. A new corpus of knowledge usually emerges from research that transcends individual disciplines.