1. Problem Statement Workshop
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and Criminal Justice
Summer Institute 2019
Problem Statement Workshop

2. The Problem Statement and associated sections make up the beginning of the Prospectus and Chapter 1 of the Proposal
All of your dissertation is based on that problem statement
Make it clear – something you can prove exists at the place you’re going to conduct the study
General Information

3. The “Problem” IS NOT: WHY SOMETHING IS HAPPENING IS NOT
WHAT YOU PLAN ON DOING ABOUT IT
THE PROBLEM IS WHAT NEEDS TO BE FIXED.
PERIOD.

4. Define components and elements of the problem, if applicable.
Give a brief description of
the setting where the research study will take place
the profile of the organization and other pertinent general background information
other relevant information as determined by the committee
Discuss the feasibility of the research study within the context of your role within the organization.
Address gaps in the research literature and the rationale for your study (Deficiencies in the Evidence).
The “Problem”

5. Which of these are problem statements?
Students have difficulty reading music in chorus.
There is a lack of supplies for art classes, so students cannot draw with water colors
The drama department needs greater funding to perform musicals.
We need to discover whether students learn word processing skills better with a Mac or PC.
Which of these are problem statements?

6. Differences Among the Topic, Problem, Purpose, and Questions
General
Topic
Music reading skills
Research
Problem
Students are having difficulty mastering music reading skills in HS chorus
To study the reasons students who join HS chorus cannot read music
Purpose
Statement
To what extent is music reading part of the middle school choral curriculum?
Research
Question
Specific

7. Ready to start your prospectus or Chapter 1 of your proposal?
Chapter 1: Introduction
Topic
This is a brief description of the proposed area of study.
Evidence of the Existence of the Problem
Provide local evidence that the problem actually exists
Background and Significance
Provide evidence from the literature and experience showing the need to study this problem. Think of the greater good for participants and possibly society. Include references.
The research problem. This is an area of conflict, concern, or controversy. “The problem to be addressed by the proposed study is ”
Deficiencies in the Evidence
Include a brief discussion that details (a) the area of need in relation to the problem and (b) the deficiency or lack of evidence in the literature.
Audience
Discuss who will be benefit from reading your study.
Ready to start your prospectus or Chapter 1 of your proposal?