The Time Dimension and the Problem Statement

Part I: Consider what you learned this week from Maxfield and Babbie’s (2018) discussion of “The Time Dimension” in research, as well as their “Putting It All Together” example found on pp. 106–107.

• With this information in mind, distinguish cross-sectional from longitudinal studies, providing an original example of each (i.e., not one from the readings or one already posted to the Discussion Board by another student).
• Explain how retrospective and prospective approaches to research can yield very different results.

Part II: Reflect on what you learned from unit readings about writing an effective problem statement for a research proposal. Using the applied research topic you selected and had approved by your professor, develop a draft problem statement and post it here to the Discussion Board to receive feedback from others. In turn, provide feedback to at least two classmates on their problem statements. Be specific. Tell them both what is clear and well defined and what is vague and needs further specificity to meet the SMART criteria and effectively address the 5 Ws of the proposed study (Who, What, When, Where, and Why). Act as a “critical friend” and ask clarifying questions.