Strategies To Win: Six-Steps For Creating Problem Statements In Doctoral Research

Abstract

The problem in a doctoral dissertation is the most critical component of the study. (Creswell, 2004; Simon & Francis, 2004; Sproull, 1995). The problem explains the rationale for the study, validates its importance, and determines the research design. Many students do not know how to write a problem statement despite its importance (Simon & Francis, 2004). Currently no systematic process exists to teach students how to write a problem statement. The problem is compounded for distance education students who do not have face-to-face instructor contact. This article will present a six-step method for teaching online doctoral students how to write a problem statement. The process is used at the University of Phoenix Online School of Advanced Studies (SAS).