Research Objectives
Research objectives are one of the most important parts of research. According to Farrugia and colleagues (2010), objectives of the research define the specific aims of the study. Basically, it describes what the researcher wants to achieve by conducting the research. Personally, I think the objectives are the backbone of the research in which the methodology and results rely on. Before any researcher can proceed with conducting the research proper, they must first determine the research objectives in order to move forward with the investigation. When the objectives have been properly determined, conducting the research will go smoothly, and the researchers will be able to appropriately defend their paper during defense.
Project objectives and research objectives are similar in a way that both represent the goal of the project or research. However, the main difference between the two is that research objectives are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound (Bjerke & Renger, 2017).
To cite an example, in our group, one research objective we have determined for our research paper is: 'To determine the best practices and essential services of selected Primary HIV Care Centers in Cebu and their effects on patient satisfaction and trust.'
As observed, the research objective stated is specific—it means that it is stated clearly what we are really after in our research paper. It is also measurable, attainable, and realistic—which means that the action can be measured and it is something we are capable of conducting, as well as realistic given the realities occurring in our community about HIV patients.
As I have mentioned in the first paragraph, research objectives are truly important. Because of its importance in conducting a research investigation, it is only right to make correct and proper research objectives.
References
Bjerke MB; Renger R. (2017). Being smart about writing SMART objectives. Evaluation and Program Planning. 61: 125-127
Farrugia P; Petrisor BA; Farrokhyar F; Bhandari M. (2010). Research questions, hypotheses and objectives. Can J Surg. 53(4): 278–281