3.
Selecting and Formulating a Research Topic
Introduction
Choosing a research topic is one of the most difficult yet crucial steps in the
research process. It affects the entire work because:
1. It sets the tone for the investigation. A good topic excites interest and
attracts positive attention from examiners.
2. It creates a first impression in the mind of the reader or examiner,
which can affect how the entire work is judged.
3. It can be a source of motivation. A good topic helps the researcher stay
engaged; a bad topic causes disinterest.
4. It brings joy and pride. A topic the researcher loves will be a source of
long-term satisfaction. A poor topic may be hidden out of shame.
This chapter discusses:
Types and sources of research topics
How to choose and phrase a good research topic
Types of Research Topics
1. Research to Clarify or Validate Theory
This type of research tests or verifies existing theories using data. It tries to
explain relationships between different aspects of a phenomenon and match
theory to reality. The goal is to confirm or refute the theory using real-world
data.
2. Research to Clarify Contradictory Findings
When past studies show different or confusing results, new research can be
done to resolve contradictions. For example, some firms benefit from
strategic planning, others do not—research can explore why.
3. Research to Correct Faulty Methodology
A student may rework a previous study to improve the method—e.g., using a
larger sample, a broader scope, or better tools. The goal is to produce more
reliable results.
4. Research to Correct Inappropriate Use of Statistics
Focuses on fixing wrong statistical tools used in earlier studies. Misuse of
stats can lead to wrong conclusions. This research involves reanalyzing data
using proper techniques.
5. Research to Resolve Conflicting Opinions
Experts may hold opposing views. Research can provide evidence to settle
debates. For example, different views exist about Nigerian workers under
Theory X vs Theory Y.
6. Research to Resolve Practical Field Problems
Real-world issues like corruption, lack of commitment, or poor leadership in
firms may prompt research. These practical problems often inspire useful
studies.
Sources of Research Topics
1. Personal Experience and Observation Students may notice real-life
issues in their environment that deserve research attention.
2. Existing Relevant Literature Past studies often highlight gaps or
questions that have not been fully addressed.
3. Interactions with Supervisors or Academic Colleagues Experienced
scholars may suggest topics based on their expertise or research
interests.
Procedure for Choosing a Research Topic
i. Choose a Broad Functional Area Start by selecting your
general area of interest like HR, marketing, education, etc.
ii. Narrow Down to a Sub-area Pick a smaller focus within your
chosen area, e.g., within finance, you can choose banking or
investment.
iii.List Possible Topics Come up with several ideas based on your sub-area of
interest.
Iv. Familiarize Yourself with the Subject Read and understand the topics you
listed to ensure you’re comfortable with them.
V.Evaluate the Topics Choose the most promising topic using academic
criteria. Keep backup options in case your supervisor rejects your first choice.
Vi. Consult Your Supervisor Present your topic to your supervisor. Be ready to
answer:
Why do you want to study this?
What are the objectives?
What is the scope?
What hypothesis (if any) are you testing?
Is it Possible to Gather the Needed Data?
The supervisor may reject a topic if:
It doesn’t meet evaluation standards
The justification is weak Rejection is sometimes good—it can save you from
choosing a bad topic. Discussing with your supervisor helps refine and
improve the topic.
Criteria for Selecting a Research Topic
i. Are You Familiar with the Subject?
Don’t choose a topic you don’t understand. Lack of knowledge can lead to
failure to defend the topic or difficulty finding materials.
ii. Do You Have Interest in It?
Interest keeps you going when challenges arise. Avoid choosing a topic just
to please someone else.
iii. Is It Researchable?
You must be able to collect data using scientific tools. Topics involving
supernatural or metaphysical elements are not researchable.
iv. Is It Feasible?
You must be able to complete it within your budget and time limit. Avoid
topics that are too expensive or time-consuming.
v. Will It Make a Contribution?
A good topic should add new knowledge, offer a fresh perspective, or
support/refute previous studies.
vi. Will the Supervisor Accept It?
The topic must fall within your supervisor’s research interest or be
acceptable enough for them to guide you.
Formulating the Research Title
Once the topic is chosen, phrase it into a proper research title. This is like
giving a product a name.
A Good Title Should:
1. Create a Good Impression – Appeal to the supervisor and examiners.
2. Be Concise – Short and straight to the point.
3. Avoid Redundancy – Don’t include irrelevant details like methodology.
4. Be Stimulating – It should catch attention and interest.
5. Be Precise – Should tell the reader exactly what the study is about.
6. Avoid Common Lead-ins – Phrases like “A study of…” or “An
investigation into…” should be avoided.
Original: “An Evaluation of Consumers’ Perception of Business Regulatory
Laws”
Revised: “Consumers’ and Business Response to Consumer Protection Laws”
Original: “The Impact of Corporate Re-engineering: A Case Study of Selected
Companies”
Revised: “Corporate Re-engineering Experiences of Selected Companies”
These changes make the titles shorter, clearer, and more informative.
Summary
The choice of a research topic is a big step. A good topic:
Sets the tone
Motivates the researcher
Leaves a good impression
Adds value to knowledge
There are many types of research topics (theory, contradiction, method
errors, field problems, etc.).
The process involves:
Picking a broad and then narrow area
Listing and evaluating topics
Discussing with a supervisor
Selection criteria include:
Familiarity
Interest
Feasibility
Researchability
Supervisor’s acceptance
Contribution to knowledge
Formulating the title means making it attractive, concise, clear, and relevant.
Review Questions
1. Difference between selecting a topic and formulating the title.
2. Benefits of a good topic.
3. Find and critique ten research topics from the library.
4. Describe the process of selecting a research topic.
5. Explain the criteria used in evaluation.
6. Rank the criteria based on their importance.
7. Explain the types of research topics.
8. Classify topics based on contribution
9. Discuss the supervisor’s role in topic selection.
10. Give guidelines for formulating the title of a research
investigation .
