Understanding Non-Researchable Questions: Their Importance and Implications in Academic Research
Have you ever encountered a question that seems impossible to answer through research? Questions often framed with the word 'why' can be particularly challenging to investigate. These so-called 'non-researchable questions' highlight the limitations in our ability to collect and analyze data, and are crucial for researchers to understand, especially those in the early stages of their academic journey.
The Challenge of Non-Researchable Questions
Non-researchable questions can be illustrated through a simple example. For instance, trying to measure the fasting blood sugar levels of a random person may reveal important physiological data. However, such data alone cannot fully explain the quality of one's lifestyle—a subjective and multi-faceted issue. This is because life is not always about cause-effect relations, nor can everything be explained through direct QA methods.
Defining Non-Researchable Questions
A non-researchable question is one for which either qualitative or quantitative data cannot be collected. This aspect is particularly significant in doctoral research, where the selection of a topic, the research problem, and the research questions are all interconnected. These questions often lead to a 'done' dissertation, which is a primary focus for myself as a doctoral professor and dissertation coach.
The lack of data availability in non-researchable questions can arise from several reasons, including the inability to recruit participants. This may be due to the non-existence of a relevant population or because of the unwillingness of individuals to participate. Another reason could be the sensitivity of the topic. For example, investigating the experiences of astronauts on Mars involves niche populations that may be difficult to access. Additionally, topics related to illegal activities or career implications can also lead to a lack of participant participation.
Further Resources on Non-Researchable Questions
If you are interested in learning more about the distinction between non-researchable and researchable questions, as well as other aspects of research design, I highly recommend the following:
What is the difference between non-researchable question and researchable questions? Why is it a good idea to begin research with a question? Why it is important to consider research design issues before conducting the research study and formulating the research question As a researcher, how do you find questions that can be answered?These resources provide a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of research, particularly when faced with non-researchable questions. They also offer strategies for finding and formulating researchable questions that can lead to meaningful and impactful research projects.