Tutkimusongelma

Tutkimusongelma (Finnish for “research problem”) is a central concept in scientific inquiry. It denotes the problem, puzzle, or question that motivates a research project and that the study aims to address. A tutkimusongelma identifies what phenomenon will be studied, what needs to be explained, or what gap in knowledge the work seeks to fill. It is typically framed so that it can be investigated through observation, data collection, and analysis.

In the research process, the tutkimusongelma guides the entire design. It shapes the literature review, determines the methods of data collection and analysis, and sets the scope and boundaries of the study. A well-defined tutkimusongelma helps researchers articulate the purpose of the work, align aims with available resources, and communicate the study’s significance to others.

A good tutkimusongelma is clear, focused, and feasible within the given constraints. It should be relevant to the field, contribute to theory or practice, and be answerable with appropriate methods and data. The formulation often takes the form of a research question or a testable hypothesis, and it may specify context, variables, or conditions to be explored. It is common for a tutkimusongelma to evolve during a project as new evidence emerges or scope changes.

The concept is closely related to, yet distinct from, related notions such as tutkimuskysymys (research question) and hypoteesi (hypothesis). Together they structure a study’s aims, design, and interpretation. In Finnish academic practice, a clearly stated tutkimusongelma is considered essential for coherent inquiry and credible results.