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Research fundamentals: II. Choosing and defining a research question
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY 11040, USA. kwiatkow@lij.edu
Summary
Developing a testable research hypothesis is crucial for academic emergency physicians. This guide assists in refining research questions for complete and adequate testing.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine Research
- Scientific Method in Medicine
Background:
- This article is part of a series by the SAEM Research Committee.
- It targets junior academic emergency physicians (EPs) and interested nonacademic EPs.
- The series focuses on a stepwise approach to the research process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the critical process of developing a testable research hypothesis.
- To guide researchers in refining research questions for empirical investigation.
Main Methods:
- The article outlines a systematic approach to hypothesis development.
- It emphasizes the refinement of research questions from broad ideas to testable propositions.
Main Results:
- The development of a testable hypothesis is a challenging but essential step.
- Effective refinement ensures research questions are both answerable and adequately testable.
Conclusions:
- Mastering hypothesis development is key for successful medical research.
- This article provides foundational guidance for emergency physicians engaged in research.