This section provides resources on the different types of research questions and tools for forming a good research question. A research question guides an inquiry to create knowledge, whereas a clinical question guides the search for existing knowledge that can be applied to practice. Your research question might arise from a clinical question.
After skimming the literature, you may find that this area has been well investigated. You might then shift your question and literature search again. The next step will be to further focus your question and consider a pilot and feasibility study to help you refine your main research question for your full-scale research project.
Recommended Resources
- McMaster Resource: Forming Questions – Health Science Library
- Video: Formulating Research Questions – McMaster Program for Faculty Development
- External Resource: Formulating Research questions – Fraser Health Research Toolkit
Feasibility and Pilot Studies
Pilot studies are an excellent way to assess the feasibility of a large, expensive full-scale study by providing preliminary evidence on the clinical efficacy of a drug or intervention. Conducting a pilot study prior to the main study can enhance the likelihood of success of the main study and avoid unsuccessful ones.
- Presentation: Moving your research from idea to action: A hands-on exercise to map out a pilot study by Drs. Dee Mangin and Michelle Howard, Spring Retreat [Slides | Video]
- Journal Article: Thabane, L., Ma, J., Chu, R., Cheng, J., Ismaila, A., Rios, L. P., … & Goldsmith, C. H. (2010). A tutorial on pilot studies: the what, why and how. BMC medical research methodology, 10(1), 1-10.
*DFM faculty members can access full text articles from the McMaster Health Sciences Library using your MacID. To request your MacID, or if you’re having issues, please email Faculty Relations at fmappts@mcmaster.ca.
Updates
- Large Research Group session from October 25 “Honouring our social obligations: Incorporating social accountability & responsibility throughout the research process” added to Social Accountability
Connect with Us
For support, feedback, or to suggest a resource, email dfmresearch@mcmaster.ca