Research objectives are the specific aims that researchers want to achieve through their study, and they are related directly to the research questions (Grove et al, 2014; Paraho, 2014). Since the objectives are closely related to the research questions, they should cover all aspects of the problem, should be specific and ordered in a logical sequence, as well as achievable and feasible. Research objectives are stated in the introductory chapter of our research proposal or report. (Farrugia P, et al. 2010).
An objective of study in research is akin to a destination in a journey. Just like travelers who set specific and clear destinations to visit in their journey, researchers need to establish the exact same thing to guide their study. Picture ourself traveling somewhere for a week. With the limited time, our primary objective in mind is to visit a particular city. Then, we narrow it down to smaller and more specific goals, such as visiting several landmarks and restaurants. Knowing this will provide us a more structured journey, ensuring that we gain as much experience as possible while traveling. Without these objectives, one may find themselves missing out on important experience.
Likewise, in research, objectives represent the goal we want to achieve from conducting a study. They guide us in selecting the relevant methods and data while maintaining our focus throughout the research to get the desirable results. Without clear defined objectives set upfront, our research will only result in lack of direction and lack of clarity.
The important thing to remember is that we need to be reasonable in setting out the research objectives. When it is possible, avoid setting out too many objectives in a single piece of research.
There are two statements that can state objectives: general objectives and specific objectives. General objective or aim tells us WHAT needs to be studied. Meanwhile, research objectives tell us HOW our research aim will be approached. The achievement of research objectives contributes to the success of the research aim. To make it clearer, the following section will explain the definition and examples of general objectives and specific objectives.
General Objective: General objective is often known as aim. It conveys the overall and general purpose of your study, the big picture, in a single sentence or a short paragraph. There is usually only one general aim that you intend to achieve in your research. Analogically, this represents your primary objective, visiting the desirable city.
Examples:
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“The impact of exclusion on students’ academic motivation in culturally diverse school environments.”
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“This project aims to identify the most preferred bamboo-based tissue product among the environmentally conscious individuals in Jakarta.”
Specific Objectives: Specific Objectives are the smaller actionable goals narrowed down from the general objectives. It appears in a form of list. Specific objectives are your various specific destinations to visit. The number of these objectives can range between three to six points.
Examples:
(1) Impact of Exclusion
The specific objectives as follows:
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To identify the sources and forms of exclusion experienced by students in culturally diverse school settings
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To assess the academic motivation levels of students in culturally diverse schools
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To analyze the relationship between experiences of exclusion and students’ academic motivation
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To provide recommendations and strategies for educators, administrators, and/or policymakers to create more inclusive and motivating learning environments.
(2) Bamboo-based tissue
The specific objectives as follows:
1. To survey all brands of bamboo-based tissue sold in Jakarta
2. To compare the number of items sold by each brand in the last financial year.
3. To identify the bamboo-based tissue brand that has sold the most items
4. To determine influential factors contributing to people’s preferences