1. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
M.C.Masatu, MD, MSc, PhD

2. OUTLINE
 Meaning of research objectives
 Importance of research objectives
 Types of research objectives
 Qualities of specific objectives

3. MEANING AND IMPORTANCE
What are research objectives?
 Description of what is to be achieved by the
study
Importance
 Narrows and focus the study
 Guides information to be collected
 Facilitate development of METHODOLOGY

4. TYPES OF OBJECTIVES
 Broad objective
 Specific objectives

5. Broad objective
 States what is to be achieved by the study in
general terms.
 Usually only one per study
 Related to core problem and topic of the study
 Shows target population and place
 Use action verb
Example:
 To determine the factors associated with increased number
of diarrhea cases among under fives in X village

6. Specific objectives
 Describe the variables that are measured by
the study
 Several in one study
 Use action verb
Example:
5. To find out methods used for excreta disposal
7. To find out methods used for water treatment
3. To determine the feeding habits of the under fives

7. Qualities of specific objectives
 Stated in logical sequence
 Clear and unambiguous
 What is to be done?
 Specific
 Addressing one thing only
 Measurable
 Can be evaluated
 Use proper action verbs (Determine, Find out, Identify)

8. Qualities of specific objectives-cont
 Attainable, given the resources available
 Realistic, given the local conditions
 Time bound, can be achieved in the given
time

9. Qualities - SMART
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Time bound