Problem Statements
Objective: We will be able to construct Problem Statements for SHRRP.
Presentation Overview
What is a Problem Statement?
A problem statement is an assertion that explains why an issue is important, and appeals to the audience.
There are three parts:
1) the ideal
2) the reality
3) the consequences for the reader
Rationale
Well constructed problem statements will convince your audience that the problem is real and worth having you investigate.
Your strategy is one of contrast: by situating the ideal scenario next to the situation as it exists, you can not only persuade the reader that a problem exists, but then go on to emphasize the consequences of either ignoring or addressing the problem.
Formal Problem Statements
When using formal problem statements, be sure that they are specific. Be sure to state only what you:
….will discuss in the text
….can support with evidence
Helping the Audience Understand your Work
To write strong problem statements, you need to know:
….what your readers already know about the topic of the document
….how you will highlight the significance of your topic
Kinds of Knowledge
You need to analyze your audience, and gauge their knowledge of the following areas:
Terminology
Specialized terminology refers to words or phrases that might not be easily understood by readers from different backgrounds.
Any terms that you had to look up, or you think your readers might not have known previously, should be defined and spelled out.
Shared Beliefs and Mindsets
The idea of shared beliefs and mindsets relates to the values an audience holds and how these can change the way that they interpret or understand the statements you make. Shared beliefs and mindsets often appear in the assumptions that underlie a text.
How to Construct (step-by-step)
STATEMENT 1 (DESCRIPTION OF THE IDEAL SCENARIO)
Describe the goals, desired state, or the values that your audience considers important and that are relevant to the problem.
(BUT)
Connect statements 1 and 2 using a term such as "but," "however,"
"Unfortunately," or "in spite of";
STATEMENT 2 (THE REALITY OF THE SITUATION)
Describe a condition that prevents the goal, state, or value discussed in statement 1 from being achieved or realized at the present time.
cont’d
STATEMENT 3 (THE CONSEQUENCES FOR THE AUDIENCE)
Using specific details, show how the situation in statement 2 contains little promise of improvement unless something is done. Then emphasize the benefits of research by projecting the consequences of possible solutions as well.
RESEARCH (YOUR PROPOSED RESEARCH TO INVESTIGATE THE POSSIBILITY OF MAKING THE REALITY MORE LIKE THE IDEAL.)
Describe the areas of inquiry you will use that could lead to solutions to the problem--- how will you research the problem? What sources of information, types of research (primary or secondary),or tools will you use to help you find solutions and make recommendations to resolve the clash?
For examples...
...go to this website.