3 The three-stage rocket

Question 1

Starting point

Answer 1

Practical problem

Something that bothers us, or a problem we’re confronted with. In more general terms, this can be described as a societal problem. A research project will hopefully contribute to solving that problem. In other words, this will be the societal relevance of the research project we are setting up.

Question 2

Second step

Answer 2

To identify the knowledge we need in order to contribute to solving that problem. This is what we call the knowledge gap. What new knowledge do we need to be able to help solve a problem? Given the identified lack of knowledge related to the problem, we formulate a research objective.

Question 3

Third step

Answer 3

Based on this objective, we determine the research question and sub-questions.