Chapter 3 | Developing Your Research Question and Proposal

According to Bedford, a research question is defined as “… a brief question that directs your efforts to collect, critically read, evaluate, and take notes on your sources” (40).  It is important to have your research question direct and focused.  This allows you not only to target a topic and develop a clear point of view, but it also narrows your topic of research to help you meet your deadlines.  Bedford refers to this as narrowing your scope.  As of now, I can’t tell is my initial research question of “How can we reteach adults to play?” is too big, or too narrow.  I’m having difficulty finding specific information on this.  In my case, as Bedford suggests, I can use specific words can combination of phrases to help refine my research question to a clear and direct place.   

•  Mix:  Although, Because, Even though, Given that, In light of, Now that, Since, While
• With:  we know that, it is uncertain, it is clear that, studies indicate, recent events, it has been shown, the lack of, we cannot… (47)

For example, I could combine "Given that" with "the lack of knowledge".  Creating the sentence:  Given the current trend and research that adult playfulness is essential to creative thought and well-being, the lack of knowledge of how adults can incorporate play into their daily lives is unsettling.  Or, using another set of words like why, what, how, should, would... I could propose the following sentence as well: Should weekly play classes be introduced to our culture in effort help keep the adult mind in a state of play for a more innovative, creative, and joyful life both at work and in the home?

Once the research question is defined, the next step is to develop your Research Proposal.  This will consist of the following elements: a title page, and introduction, review of literature, an explanation of your process to collecting information, a project timeline and lastly, a working bibliography.