CHAPTER I

PRELIMINARY

1.1 Background

Every conducting research must have a research problem that must be resolved. The

formulation of this problem is not an easy task, including for experienced researchers.

There are always problems in the environment around us.

The starting point for all types of research is none other than the problem. Without

problems, research cannot be done. The problem, when it comes to thinking about research,

must be thought out and formulated clearly, simply, and completely. That's because all

other research elements will come from the formulation of the problem.

The problem solving formulated in research is very useful to overcome our confusion

about something, to separate ambiguities, to overcome obstacles or to close the gap

between activities or phenomena. Therefore researchers must choose a problem for their

research, and formulate it to get an answer to the problem. The formulation of the problem

is upstream research, and is an important step and difficult work in scientific research.

Because of the importance of problem formulation in research I made a paper with

discussion of research problem formulation (research questions).

Scientific research is a systematic and careful investigation of a particular subject

or subject to determine or correct facts, theories, or applications. The notion of scientific

research is in line with the limitations put forward by Vockell & Asher (1995). Scientific

research according to the two experts is defined, "scientific research is a diligent and

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 systematic inquiry or investigation of a subject to discover or revise facts, theories, or

applications."

A scientific study is not an activity or activity that only questions certainty, but it also

wants to find alternative answers to a problem or phenomenon whether in the social sphere

or laboratory problems. Therefore research has the aim of wanting to find general principles

for interpreting behavior that can be used to explain and control events in the educational

sphere. In compiling research needed sources of knowledge that can be grouped, namely;

experience, authority, deductive way of thinking, inductive way of thinking, and scientific

approach.

Before conducting research, researchers must conduct surveys in earnest about what

people already know in the field they observed. Researchers must be involved in the field

of research and also must know how to find, organize and use literature in their fields.

However, most researchers lack understanding of the literature review compilers and

the preparation of hypotheses. Therefore, this paper will discuss the preparation of literature

and the preparation of hypotheses.

1.2 Formulation of the Problem

Based on the background above, the authors formulated the issues to be discussed in this

paper, including:

1. What is the definition of Problem Formulation?

2. What are the Sources of Problems in Research?

3. What are the benefits of Formulation Problems?

4. What are the Criteria for Problem Formulation?

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 5. What are the Characteristics and Problem Formulation Models?

6. How is the Limitation and Analysis of Problem Formulation?

7. How is the literature review compiled?

8. How to arrange hypotheses?

1.3 Purpose

The purpose of writing this paper can be useful for readers in general. While the specific

objectives of writing this paper include:

1. To know and understand the definition of Problem Formulation.

2. To find out and understand what are the Sources of Problems in Research.

3. To know and understand the benefits of Problem Formulation.

4. To know and understand the Criteria for Problem Formulation.

5. To know and understand the Characteristics of Good Problem Formulation.

6. To know and understand the Limitation and Analysis of Problem Formulation.

7. To find out how to prepare a literature study

8. To find out how to prepare hypotheses

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 CHAPTER II
DISCUSSION

2.1.Research Problem

The research problem is the problem that someone wants to study, the problem can be
anything that is found unsatisfactory or there is no solution, the case statement must be
changed, anything that does not work as it should, the problem covers the area of concern of
the researcher as an educator, the condition that wants to be corrected , difficulties to be
overcome, questions that need answers. Finding the problem is the most difficult and crucial
stage of the research because the research problem influences the strategy adopted in solving
the research. Problems occur if:
• There are obstacles in getting a goal / achieving something.
• If the reality is not in line with expectations (not according to das-so ein, "reality" and
das-sollen "should".
According to (Nasution, 2006: 16), there are several things that need to be considered by
prospective researchers in raising research issues, including:
1. Is the problem new, interesting and creating to prospective researchers?
2. Does the problem suit with the majors, abilities, and educational background?
3. Can the necessary data be collected with certain methods?
4. Will prospective researchers be able to bear all of their funding?
5. Does the research contain danger, threat, or other risks?
6. Can prospective researchers complete it within the time available?
It is not easy for researchers to formulate research problems, especially for beginner
researchers. Research problems are often formulated too broadly so that subject matter that is
not clear will complicate the problem solving stage, which includes determining the theoretical
concepts studied and selecting data testing methods. The more specific the formulation of
research problems the easier it is to test empirically.

2.1.1. Sources of Research Problems

When a problem is found, it is not always possible that the problem can be identified
immediately even after the problem formulated into a research topic. This can happen because
of the extent of the problems and the lack of information related to the problem. With analysis
will help to look for possible problems and then based on priorities will be able to choose the
problem that will be determined to be investigated.

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 Beginning of a Research. Based on the description above, it can be said that the first
time a starting point for problem formulation is an identified problem, a problem can be sourced
from:
• An odd or unexpected event or reality.
• There is a lack of information.
• Is a follow-up of the initial information from the results of previous studies, both to
add what has not been covered in previous studies or to add information that has been
obtained from previous studies1.
Sources of problems in a study can come from various sources. According to Mac
Millan and Schumacher (Hadjar, 1996: 40-42), problems can come from observations,
deduction results from a theory, literature reviews, social problems that are currently
happening, practical situations and can also come from personal experience. Each source can
be explained as follows:
2.1.1.1. Observation
Observation is the main source of research problems. Most practical decisions are based
on presumptions that are not supported by empirical data. Research problems can be raised
from the results of observations of a particular relationship that still does not have an adequate
basis of explanation and routine ways in carrying out an action based on tradition or authority.
Investigation is likely to result in new theories, recommendations for practical problem solving
and identifying variables that are not yet in the literature's discussion.
2.1.1.2. Deduction from theory
The theory itself is concepts that are still in the form of general principles whose
application cannot be known as long as it has not been empirically tested. Investigation of a
problem raised from theory is useful to obtain empirical explanations of practice about the
theory.
2.1.1.3. Literature
The results of the study may provide recommendations on the need for a repeat study
(replication), both with and without variation. Replication can increase the validity of research
results and the ability to be generalized more broadly. Research reports are not infrequently
also submit a recommendation to other researchers about what needs further research. The
results of this study can also be a source for determining the issues that need to be raised for a
study.

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2.1.1.4.Social problem
Social problems can also be a source of research problems. As is often the case between
students that fighting between schools, can make questions about the effectiveness of the
implementation of religious and moral education and fostering discipline in the school
environment. The large number of unemployed college graduates can also raise questions about
the suitability of the curriculum with the needs of the community.
2.1.1.5.Practical situation
At the stage of making a particular decision, it is not uncommon to conduct an
evaluative study. The results of this study are needed to be used as a basis for making further
decisions.
2.1.1.6. Personal experience
Personal experience can lead to problems that require empirical answers to get a deeper
understanding (Purwanto, 2010: 109-111)
The problem can be interpreted as a deviation between what should be (expectations)
with what actually happened (reality), between rules and implementation, between theory and
practice, between plans and implementation. This is with the statement of Stonner (1982) that
problems can be known or sought if there is a deviation between experience and reality,
between what is planned with reality, complaints, and competition.
a) There is a deviation between experience and reality.
All of what is in the world is always changing and what remains is only change, but not
infrequently the change is not expected by certain people, because it will causes the problems.
For example, in experience, borrowers who usually borrowing fund if in conventional banks
when borrowing funds don’t have to make financial reports. But the fact is the borrower's of
the fund when borrowing from conventional banks or Islamic banks, then she/he must make
financial reports when financing.
b) There is a deviation between what has been planned and reality.
A plan that has been set but the results are different from the purpose of the plan, then
of course there is a problem. For example, what has been planned, the business projected that
they will get high profits and plan to sell 100 units of vehicle annually. But in reality, there was
no profit in the business, instead it became a loss by selling 30 units of vehicles per year.
c) Complaints.
In a school organization that had been quiet there were no problems, it turns out that
after there were certain parties who complained about the products or services provided, then
problems arose in that organization. The reader's mind which is usually published in

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newspapers or magazines that complains the quality of services or products of an educational
institution, can be seen as a problem, because it is reported through the media so that many
people become aware of the quality of the product and the quality of the services that provide
by company. Thus people will not buy anymore or no longer use the services of these
institutions. Another case for an example is a complaint at a Sharia Financial Institution which
initially did nothing. But then there was a complaint through the media that the LKS carried
out practices that were not sharia compliant, for example financing using interest practices even
though it was small.
d) There is competition.
The existence of rivals or competition can often cause big problems if they cannot use
it for cooperation. Post and Giro companies feel they have problems after there are other service
bureaus that receive letter deposits, item deposits, there are mobile phones that can be used for
SMS, internet, e-mail. The Railroad Company views public road transportation by Bus as a
competitor, causing problems. But maybe PT. Telkom lacks a problem because there are no
other companies that provide the same service via cable telephone, but it becomes a problem
after there is a rival mobile phone (hand phone). Another case example is that in the beginning
there was only one company that produced Muslim clothing products, but apparently there
were other companies that produced the same products with other brands.

In a research proposal, each problem must be indicated by data. For example research
on HR, HR issues must be indicated by data. HR problems for example, limited number of
human resources, low levels of education, competency and productivity are still low. Problem
data can be obtained from preliminary observations of other people's research results, or from
documentation. The data provided must be up to date, complete and accurate. The amount of
problem data raised depends on the number of research variables determined to be examined.
If the research deals with 5 variables, then the problem data raised is at least 5. Without showing
the data, the problem raised in the study will not be trusted.
The following table provides an example of data on human resource issues in Indonesia,
which rank 110th of 179 countries. This is a problem because it is expected that high quality
human resources but in reality there are lower quality human resources when compared to other
countries.

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 Human development index asean + 3 countries
No. Country Life Adult Gros GDP Per- HDI
expectancy literacy rate enrolment capita (PPP Rank
(years) (%) ratio (%) US$)
1. Singapure 78,7 92,5 87 24,481 25
2. Brunei 76.4 92,7 74 19,210 33
3. Malaysia 73,2 88,7 71 9,512 61
4. Thailand 70,0 92,6 73 7,595 73
5. Philippanes 70,4 92,6 82 4,321 84
6. Vietnam 70,5 90,3 64 2,490 108
7. Indonesia 66,8 87,9 66 3,361 110
8. Myanmar 60,2 89,7 48 1,027 129
9. Cambodia 56,2 73,6 59 2,078 130
10. Lao pdr 54,7 68,7 61 1,759 133
11. Japan 82,0 – 84 27,967 11
12. Korea 77,0 97,9 93 17,971 28
13. China 71,6 90,9 69 5,003 85

Source: UNDP – Human Development Report 2005. (Sugiyono,2012:52-55)

2.1.2. Criteria for Choosing Research Problems

There are numbers of criteria used as considerations in finding research problems,
including:
1. Interest issues and topics
If the research idea originates from the researcher, the problem areas chosen are
generally the ones that attract attention and are the areas of expertise mastered by the
researcher. The research environment includes: educational background, thinking and
discipline occupied, are the factors that influence the selection of problem areas and researchers
understanding of the problem under study.
2. Theoretical or practical significance
The researcher must consider whether the subject matter and research topic of interest
to be studied have theoretical significance (for basic research) or practically (for applied

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 research). The considerations used to determine the significance of the research
problem relate to the following three things:
a. There is support for theoretical concepts from previous studies that have similar topics
b. Availability and data acquisition that can be relevant to the research topic
c. Contribution of research results to the development of theory or practical problem solving
3. Can be tested through data collection and analysis
The problem under study must be able to be tested through data collection and analysis.
In order to be tested, researchers need to isolate general problems into specific problems that
clearly identify the variables studied and the unit of analysis. Unit of analysis is a type of data
unit analyzed, which can include: individuals, groups, parts of or the whole organization,
industry and country.
4. In accordance with the time and cost available
Limitation of the scope of the problem can be done on various aspects including: the
period of observation, the elements (variables) studied, and the environment of the research
subject. Funding sources for basic research usually come from researchers. The process of
selecting issues that are important to be researched is called the scoping process. Mukayat
(1994) mentions several considerations that need to be considered in seeing whether a problem
is feasible or important to be investigated, as follows:
a. Is it true that the problem determined has never sought an answer?
b. Is the specified problem really important to solve when the research is done (research
reality)?
c. Does the specified problem meet 5 W, namely what, where, why, when, and how?
Understanding of the choice of the problem becomes very important especially for
researchers to avoid problem solving efforts that are not research problems. A problem, not a
research problem certainly does not meet the criteria mentioned above, or when the possible
answers to the solution of the problem are only one without any other possible alternative to
the one answer.

2.1.3. Guidelines for Formulating Research Problems

Good research is research that fulfills five main characteristics, namely the researchers'
trance, can be done (feasible), clear (clear), contributes to the knowledge of human life
(significant), and does not cause damage to nature, the human environment (ethical). Fraenkel
and Wallen (1990, in Sugiyono, 2000) raise issues of research that both fulfill the following:

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 1. The research problem must be feasible because it is related to whether or not p was
done. The efficiency aspect is the basis of this criteria. Suharsimi Arikuntoro gave
consideration to whether or not a problem might be examined from the perspective of
the supporting factors as follows:
Judging from the researchers themselves:
1.1. Researchers must have the ability to examine the problem, meaning that it has
material that is the background of the problem and mastering methods for solving
problems
1.2. have enough time so they don't do it as long as it's done.
1.3. Researchers have the energy to carry it out.
1.4. Researchers have sufficient funds. In terms of the availability of supporting factors:
1.5. There are funds available so that research questions can be answered.
1.6. There is permission from the authorities.
2. A research problem must also be clear because the research problem must not be
understood by the researcher, but also by the public at large. Nawaw added that before
conducting research, a researcher conducted the literature.
3. The problem must be significant, in the sense that the answer to the problem must seek
to contribute to the development of science and practical problem solving. Research
ideally answers questions that advance the knowledge of the field under study, as well
as practically it improves quality to humans.
4. The problem is ethical, which is not related to things that are ethical values, beliefs and
religion. Research problems must be appropriate, appropriate, and to be studied. In
essence, the research did not cause damage to humans and socially. There are no general
rules in the formulation of a problem. Sumadi (1989) and (in Sugiono, 2000) suggested
the formulation of the problem as follows:
a. Problems should be formulated in the Question sentence
b. The formulation of the problem should be concise and clear
c. Link the relationship between two or more variables
d. The formulation of the problem should provide clues about the possibility of
developing data to answer research questions.
In the formulation of problems we need to pay attention to the forms of the problem.
Sugiyono (2000) mentions that there are three forms of problems namely descriptive,
comparative, and associative problems.

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a. Descriptive Problem Formulation
Descriptive problem is a problem formulation regarding the statement of the existence
of an independent variable, either only on one or more variables (independent variables). So in
this study the researcher did not make a comparison of that variable in another sample, and
looked for the relationship of that variable with another variable.
The Examples of descriptive problems:
1. What is the attitude of the community towards state universities having legal status?
2. How well is the Ministry of National Education's performance?
3. How high is the effectiveness of the School Based Management policy in Indonesia?
4. How high is the level of productivity and financial gain of the Production Unit in
vocational schools?
5. How high is the level of community satisfaction with local government services in
education?
6. How high is the interest in reading and average length of study per day of school
students in Indonesia?
7. What is the customer's attitude towards the concept of interest according to when
lending at the bank?
8. How high is the work productivity of employees at worksheets?
From the examples above it can be seen that each research question concerns one or more
variables independently (compare with comparative and associative problems).

b. Comparative Problem Formulation

Comparative problem is a research problem that is comparing the existence of one or
more variables in two or more different samples, or at different times.
Examples of problem formulations are as follows:
1. Is there a difference in work productivity between public servants and the private
sector? (one variable in two samples)
2. Are there differences in ability and work discipline between national private employees
and foreign companies? (two variables in two samples)
3. Is there a difference in the durability of the shopkeepers standing from cities, villages
and mountains? (one variable in three samples)
4. Is there a difference in the quality of management between Islamic banks and
conventional banks?

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 5. Is there a difference in work productivity between employees of Islamic banks and
conventional banks?

c. Associative problem
Associative problem is a research question that is the relationship between two or more
variables. The relationship can be symmetrical, causal, or reciprocal relationship.
1. A symmetrical relationship is a relationship between two or more variables which
coincidentally occur together. So it's not a causal or interactive relationship. Examples of
the formulation of the problem are as follows:
1.1. Is there a relationship between the amount of ice sold and the number of crimes against
school students? (the first variable is ice sales and the second is crime) This means the
cause of the crime is not because of the ice sold. Maybe the logic is as follows. When
the ice is sold a lot during the school holidays, when many students are picnicking to
some recreation place. Because many students take picnics, there is a lot of crime.
1.2. Is there a relationship between hair color and the ability to lead a school?
1.3. Is there a relationship between the number of radios in the rural areas and the number
of people attending school?
1.4. Is there a relationship between houses near the railroad tracks and the number of
children?
1.5. Is there a relationship between the number of umbrellas sold and the number of school
students?
1.6. Is there a relationship between the understanding of unlawful interest with the number
of Islamic bank customers?
1.7. Is there a relationship between an increase in stock prices and the distribution of
dividends to be distributed to investors?

Examples of research titles are as follows.

1. Relationship between the house near the railroad tracks with the number of children.
2. The relationship between the amount of ice sold and the number of crimes against
school students.
3. The relationship between the number of radios in rural areas and the number of people
attending school.
4. The relationship between hair color and the ability to lead a school.

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 5. The relationship between understanding of unlawful interest with the number of Islamic
bank customers
6. The relationship between rising stock prices and dividend payments that will be
distributed to investors

2. Causal relationships, is relationship that are causal. In this case there are independent
variables (independent variables) and dependent variables. The independent variable
influences the dependent variable.
2.1. Is there any influence of parental education on children's learning achievements?
(parent education independent variable and learning achievement dependent
variable).
2.2. How big is the effect of classroom layout on the efficiency of learning in high
school?
2.3. How much influence does the headmaster of SMK have on the speed with which
graduates get jobs? (independent variable leadership and speed of obtaining the
dependent variable work).
2.4. How much influence the curriculum, educational media and teacher quality on the
quality of human resources produced from a school? (curriculum, media, and teacher
quality as the independent variable and HR quality as the dependent variable).
2.5. Is there any effect of the payroll system on work performance? (payroll system as
an independent variable and work performance as the dependent variable)
2.6. How does service affect customer interest in saving? (service as an independent
variable and interest in saving as a dependent variable)
Example of research title:
1. The influence of the principal's leadership on the speed of graduates obtaining
employment at vocational high schools in Indrakila Province.
2. The influence of parental education on children's learning achievements in Al
Completeura Regency Elementary School.
3. The effect of curriculum, educational media and teacher quality on the quality of human
resources produced from a school.
4. Effect of payroll system on work performance
5. The effect of service on customers' interest in saving

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3. Mutual or interactive relationships are relationships that influence each other. Here it is
unknown which dependent variable and independent variables. Example:
1. The relationship between motivation and achievement. Here it can be stated
motivation affects achievement and also achievement influences motivation.
2. The relationship between intelligence and wealth. Intelligence can cause wealth,
likewise rich people can increase intelligence because nutrition is fulfilled.

d. Comparative-Associative Problem Formulation

Comparative-associative problem formulation is a problem formulation that asks the
comparison of correlations between two or more variables in different samples or populations.
Example:
1. Is there a difference in correlation between service quality and value selling between
Shop A and Shop B?
2. Is there a difference in the influence of leadership on employee discipline between
Government and Private Institutions?

e. Structutal Problem Formulation

Structural problem formulation is a research problem formulation that is asking the validity
of the structure of the relationship between two or more variables that have intervening
variables. To test the structure of the relationship between variables that are causal used path
analysis (path analysis) and to test the structure of relationships between variables that are
equipped with manifest variables that are causal or respirocal used SEM (Structure Equation
Model)
Examples of Structural Problems:
a. Can the structure of the relationship between variables that affect the work productivity
of employees at PT Kinanta be proven by the empirical data collected?
b. Is the structure of the relationship between variables that influence the Regent's
leadership supported by the empirical data collected?

2.1.4. Research Questions, Management Questions, Investigative Questions

Hierarchically a problem or research question starts with a more general question and then
swings to a more specific question. Cooper and Emory (1996) distinguish hierarchical
questions into 4 levels, namely management questions, research questions, inquiry questions,
and measurement questions.

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1. Management questions are questions that reflect a decision that must be made by a
manager and are a problem that causes research to be conducted. A question that shows
management questions such as how to increase profits.
2. Research Question (research question) is a question that emphasizes the facts and
collected information . Related to bank failures in obtaining higher profits, the
following research questions can be asked:
1. What are the main factors that cause banks to fail to achieve higher growth in their
savings rates?
2. How well does the bank run the following things?
3. The quality of the work environment?
3. Investigation questions are statements that researchers must answer to be able to
respond to general statements satisfactorily. The aim is to take more general research
questions and break them down into more detailed questions. Inquiry questions related
to the research questions above can be asked:
a. How is the community's position with regard to financial services and their use?
1. What specific financial services are used?
2. To what extent are such services interesting?
3. What factors influence someone to use certain services?
b. What is the competitive position of the bank?
1. What is the geographical pattern of its customers?
2. To what extent do people know about promotional efforts undertaken by banks?
4. Measurement questions (measurement questions) in the survey measurement questions
are the actual questions asked to respondents. These questions appear in the
questionnaire.
Example: how do you rate the quality and price of product A?

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2.2. LITERATURE AND HYPOTHESIS STUDY
Literature review is one of the important steps in the research process. Literature is
intended to look for theories, concepts, generalizations that can be used as a theoretical basis
for research to be conducted. Theory is the flow of logic or reasoning which is a set of concept
definitions, propositions that are arranged systematically.
The theory has three functions, namely to explain (explanation), predict (prediction),
and control (control) of a phenomenon. Why is performance low in an organization? Can be
explained through theory (explaining function). What is the impact of the low performance of
employees in an organization (prediction function), and so that performance can be improved
what should be done? (control function).

2.2.1. Literature Review (Textbooks and Research Results)

In the discussion of the literature review / review of the literature, the authors discuss it
by analyzing the contents of chapter 2 chapter 5 of the book How to Design and Evaluate
Research by Fraenkle and Wallen with chapter 4 on Literature Review written by Sally
Schumacher in his book entitled Research in Education, as well as other sources. There are
four main points in the discussion of review of this literature, namely:
1. The importance of literature review
2. Literature sources,
3. Steps to prepare a literature review,
4. Write a literature review report

2.2.2. Description of Theory

Description of the theory in a study is a systematic description of the theory (and not
just the opinion of an expert or author of the book) and the results of research that are relevant
to the variables studied. How many theory groups need to be stated / described, will depend on
the extent of the problem and technically depends on the number of variables studied. If in a
study there are three independent variables and one dependent variable, the theory groups that
need to be described are four theoretical groups, namely the theory group regarding three
independent variables and one dependent variable. Therefore, the more variables studied, the
more variables will be examined theory to be put forward.
The description of the theory contains at least an explanation of the variables studied,
through definitions, and a complete and in-depth description of various references so that the

16
scope, position and predictions of the relationship between the variables to be studied become
clearer and more directed.
Therefore, as a first step in describing theories, especially in the quantitative research
paradigm, research first determines the number of variables to be examined. If there are two
dependent variables and one dependent variable, the researcher must describe three theories
related to these variables, namely the theory group that is pleased with two independent
variables and the theory group that is pleased with one dependent variable.
Theory can be mastered by reading text books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, relevant
scientific journals and the results of previous research. A good reading source for describing
theories must meet two principles (Suryabrata, 2003. In textbook I Ketut Rahyuda, et al, 2004),
namely relevance and finesse. (Sugiyono, 2000. In textbook I Ketut Rahyuda, et al, 2004)
added one more principle, namely completeness so that there are three principles needed for a
reading that is considered good. The principle of relevance is pleased with the compatibility
between the variables studied and the theories put forward. The principle of completeness is
pleasing to the number of sources read. In connection with the many sources of reading,
researchers can be helped by utilizing CD-ROMs that are generally available in libraries, while
the principle of prowess is pleased with the time dimension. The more new a reading source
is, the more theory will be obtained.

Associated with the use of the results of previous research in the process of describing
the theory of researchers can see the relevance of the results of the research problems examined,
research time, place of research, research samples, research methods, analysis and conclusions.

2.2.3. Steps to describe the theory

Some steps in describing the theory are as follows:
1. Determine the name of the variable and the number of variables studied.
2. Find as many sources of reading that are relevant to each variable studied.
3. See the table of contents in each book and select the topics that are relevant to each
variable to be examined.
4. Find the definition of each variable to be examined in each reading source, compare
between one source with another source, and select the definition that matches the
research to be conducted.

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 5. Read the entire contents of the book topic in accordance with the variables to be studied,
do the analysis, ponder, and make a formula in your own language about the contents
of each reading source that is read.
6. Describe theories that have been read from various sources into written form in their
own language. Reading sources cited or used as a basis for describing theories must be
included.

2.2.4. Framework for Thinking

Uma Sekaran in his book Business Research (1992) suggests that, the framework of
thinking is a conceptual model of how theories relate to various factors that have been identified
as important problems.
A good thinking framework will theoretically explain the interrelation between
variables to be studied. So theoretically it is necessary to explain the relationship between
independent and dependent variables. If there are moderator and intervening variables in the
study, it also needs to be explained, why those variables are involved in the research. The
interrelationships between these variables, then formulated in the form of relationships between
research variables. Therefore, in every preparation of the research paradigm it must be based
on a framework of thinking.
Thinking framework in a study needs to be stated if in the study regarding two or more
variables. If the research only discusses one variable or more independently, then what the
researcher does besides presenting a theoretical description for each variable, is also an
argument against variations in the magnitude of the variable under study (Sapto Haryoko,
1999).
Research regarding two or more variables, hypotheses in the form of comparisons and
relationships are usually formulated. Therefore, in order to formulate research hypotheses in
the form of relationships and comparisons, it is necessary to put forward a thinking framework.
A researcher must master scientific theories as a basis for argumentation in compiling a
framework that produces a hypothesis. This framework of thought is a temporary explanation
of the phenomena that are the object of the problem. (Suriasumantri, 1986). The main criterion
so that a framework of thought can convince fellow scientists, is the logical paths of thought
in constructing a framework of thinking that produces conclusions in the form of hypotheses.
So the framework of thinking is a synthesis of the relationship between variables compiled
from various theories that have been described.

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 Furthermore Uma Sekaran (1992) states that, a good frame of mind, contains the
following matters:
a. The variables to be examined must be explained.
b. Discussion in the framework of thinking must be able to show and explain the
interrelation / relationship between the variables studied, and there is an underlying
theory.
c. The discussion must also be able to show and explain whether the relationship between
variables is positive or negative, symmetrical, causal or interactive (reciprocal).
d. This framework of thinking needs to be stated in the form of diagrams (research
paradigms), so that other parties can understand the mindset put forward in the study.
The resulting thinking framework can be either an associative or comparative /
comparative thinking framework.
Example sentence thinking framework
a. If customer satisfaction is high, then there is a tendency to buy again will be high
(associative thinking framework). Formulation of the hypothesis "There is a positive
and significant relationship between satisfaction with customer loyalty / buy again)".
b. If the manager's leadership is good, and the quality of goods is attractive, then the
company's profit will be high (an associative thinking framework with two independent
variables). Formulation of the hypothesis "There is a positive and significant
relationship together the same between managerial leadership and attractiveness of the
word significant only for corporate profits "(word significance only for research on
samples If the economic status of the people is different, then the tendency to choose
the quality of goods is also different (comparative thinking framework). Formulation
of the hypothesis "There is a difference between rich and poor groups in choosing the
quality of goods"
Examples of Framework Theory of Thinking and Hypothesis.

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Research title: EFFECT OF LEADERSHIP ON EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION
Theories used in this research are leadership theory and work motivation Research Paradigm
(relationship model between variables)
THEORY:
Leadership Theory
1. Leadership is the process of influencing other people for the goals of achieving shared
goals (Megginson)
Leadership is the process of influencing others to achieve shared goals.
2. Leadership is: a process in which an individual influences other group members to
achieve the specified group or organization goals.
Synthesis
Leadership is the process of influencing others to achieve group or organizational goals
Motivation Theory:
1. Is the set of processes that arose, direct, and maintain human behavior toward attaining
some goals (Grenberg, Baron. 2001)
Motivation is a process that can arouse, direct and maintain people's behavior to achieve
several goals.
2. Is a set of factors that cause people to behave in certain ways. (Griffin, Moorhead, 2000)
Motivation are factors that cause people to choose a certain path.
Synthesis
Motivation is a set of factors that can arouse, direct and maintain one's behavior to
choose a certain path in achieving goals.

THINKING FRAMEWORK:
If leadership is a factor that can influence other people, then that influence will be able to
arouse, encourage, and maintain one's behavior towards the goal.

HYPOTHESIS
There is a positive influence between leadership and work motivation.

2.2.5. Steps for Thinking Framework Development

The process of thinking framework for the formulation of hypotheses requires six steps
(Sugiyono, 2000, in textbook I Ketut Rahyuda, et al, 2004) as follows:
1) Establish the variable under study

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 2) Read books and research results
3) Describe the theory and research results
4) Critical analysis of the theory and research results
5) Comparative analysis of the theory and research results
6) Synthesis and conclusions
Sakeran (1996) in textbook I Ketut Rahyuda, et al (2004) states, a good frame of mind
contains the following matters:
1. The variables studied must be explained.
2. Discussion in the framework of thinking must be able to show and explain the
relationship or relationship between the variables studied and / or the underlying theory.
3. Discussion must also be able to show and explain whether the relationship between
these variables is positive or negative, symmetrical, causal or reciprocal.
4. The framework for thinking needs to be stated in the form of diagrams (research
paradigms), so that other parties can understand the mindset expressed in the research.

2.2.6. Forms of Hypothesis

Hypothesis comes from the words hypo and thesis. Hipo means doubt, while thesis means
truth. Thus means the hypothesis is the truth that is still in doubt. This means that the hypothesis
will be rejected if empirical data in the research justifies it and is otherwise accepted if the
empirical facts of the research reject it. The hypothesis can also be seen as a temporary
conclusion or a temporary answer to the problem at hand. It is said to be temporary because
the hypothesis is based on relevant theory, not yet based on empirical facts. Hypotheses are
distinguished between research hypotheses and statistical hypotheses.
1. Research hypothesis is a temporary answer to a research problem, or a hypothesis which
results are obtained from the test / theory. The research hypothesis is distinguished
between the working hypothesis and the null hypothesis (zero). Working hypothesis is
a hypothesis that will be tested for truth. This hypothesis is composed of theories that
have been tested for reliability, while the null hypothesis is prepared from theories that
are seen as lacking reliability.
2. Statistical hypotheses exist when researchers work with samples, or the results of
hypotheses / studies use samples. If the researcher does not work with a sample, there
is no statistical hypothesis. For research that works with populations there may be
research hypotheses, but there are no statistical hypotheses.

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 The hypothesis is formed by a statement about the frequency of events or relationships
between variables. It can be stated that something happened in one part of the whole time, or a
symptom that was followed by another symptom, or something bigger or smaller than another.
Bias is also stated about the correlation with one another. Following are examples of each of
the descriptive, comparative and associative hypotheses
a. Descriptive Hypothesis
Descriptive hypotheses are temporary answers to descriptive problems, namely those
concerning independent variables, either one or more variables. In italics are research
variables.
Example:
1) Descriptive Problem Formulation
a. What is the durability of incandescent brand X lights?
b. How high is the employee morale at PT. Y?
c. How high is the discipline and productivity of private employees?
2) Descriptive Hypothesis
Durability of incandescent brand lights X = 600 hours (Ho). This is the null hypothesis,
because the lamp life in the sample is expected not to differ significantly from the lamp life
in the population.
Alternative hypotheses are: Durability of X # 600 hour incandescent brand lamps. "Not the
same as" this can mean greater or less than 600 hours.
3) Statistical Hypothesis (only available when based on sample data)
Ho: u = 600
Ha: u = 600 or> 6000 or 600
For problem formulation number 2 the null hypothesis can be shape thus.
a. The morale of employees at PT X-75% of the ideal criteria set.
b. The employee morale at PT X is at least 60% of the ideal criteria set (at least that
means greater or equal to 2).
c. The morale of employees at PT X is at most 60% of the ideal criteria set (at most
that means less or equal to S).
In reality the hypothesis raised is only one, and which hypothesis is chosen
depends on the theory and preliminary observations made on the object. The
alternative hypotheses respectively are:

22
 a. The enthusiasm of the employees at PT X ≠ 75%
b. The enthusiasm of the employees at PT X <75%
c. The enthusiasm of the employees at PT X > 75%
The statistical hypothesis is (only available when based on sample data)
a. Ho: p =75%
Ha: p≠75%
b. Ho: p ≥75%
Ha: p<75%
c. Ho: p ≤75%
Ha: p >75%
The statistical techniques used to test the three hypotheses are not the same. Ways to
test hypotheses will be given in a separate chapter, namely in the data analysis chapter.
b. Comparative Hypothesis
The comparative hypothesis is a formulation of comparative problems. In this formula the
variables are the same but the population or sample is different, or the situation occurs at
different times.
Example:
1. Comparative Problem Formulation
What is the work productivity of PT X employees when compared to PT Y?
2. Comparative hypothesis: based on the formulation of the comparative problem, three zero
and alternative hypothesis models can be put forward as follows:
Zero Hypothesis:
1) Ho: There is no difference in work productivity between employees at PT X and PT Y;
or there is a work productivity equation between PT X and Y employees, or.
2) Ho: The productivity of PT X employees is greater or equal to (2) PT Y ("greater or
equal to" = least).
3) Ho: The productivity of PT X employees is smaller or equal to (S) PT Y ("smaller or
equal").
Alternative Hypothesis:
4) Ha: The work productivity of PT X employees is greater (or smaller &) than the
employees of PT Y.
5) Ha: The productivity of PT X's employees is smaller than (PT Y.
6) Ha: The productivity of PT X's employees is greater or equal to PT Y.

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Another example is:
Null hypothesis : There is no difference in the operating profit of PT X and PT Y.
Alternative Hypothesis : PT X's profit will not equal (greater or greater or small) with PT Y.
Profit

c. Associative Hypothesis
The associative hypothesis is a temporary answer to the formulation of associative
problems, namely asking the relationship between two or more variables.
1) Examples of Associative Problems Formulation
Is there a relationship between the level of deflation and the price of shares outstanding?
2) Research Hypothesis
There is a positive and significant relationship between the level of deflation and the
price of shares outstanding

d. Statistical Hypothesis
Ho : 𝜌 = 0 0 means there is no relationship
Ho :𝜌 ≠ 0 “not equal to zero" means greater or less than zero means there is no
relationship

𝜌 = the correlation value in the formulation was hypothesized

2.2.7. Formulate Hypothesis

The hypothesis is a temporary conjecture that contains scientific statements, but still
needs testing. Therefore, the hypothesis is made based on the results of past research or based
on data that had existed before the study was carried out further with the aim of re-testing the
hypothesis. However, researchers may not manipulate data in such a way that it leads to an
irresistibility of the hypothesis. He must be objective about the data collected. Therefore,
formulating a hypothesis is not easy. As mentioned earlier there are at least three causes of
difficulties in formulating hypotheses, namely:
1) The absence of a theoretical framework or knowledge of a clear theoretical
framework.
2) Lack of ability to use existing theoretical frameworks.
3) Failing to get acquainted with existing research techniques to be able to string words
together in making hypotheses correctly

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 CHAPTER III
CLOSING
3.1.Conclusion

Based on the discussion above, it can be concluded several important points, including:
1. Problem formulation is a formula that questions a phenomenon, both in its position as
an independent phenomenon, and in its position as a phenomenon that is interrelated
between one phenomenon and another, both as a cause and as a result.
2. The formulation of the problem has several functions, including the following:
a. As a driver of a research activity to be held
b. As a guide / determining direction or focus of a study
c. As a determinant what kind of data needs and must be collected by researchers,
and what types of data do not need and must be set aside by researchers
d. With the formulation of the research problem, the researchers can be made easier
in determining who will be the population and sample in the study
3. Criteria in the formulation of the problem, including:
a. Being a question sentence or interrogative sentence, both questions that require
descriptive answers, and questions that require explanatory answers.
b. Useful or associated with efforts to form and develop theories.
c. The formulation of the problem should be formulated in the context of actual
pragmatic policies.
4. The characteristics of a good problem, namely:
a. Having research value
b. Problems must have authenticity
c. The problem must state a relationship
d. Problems must be important
e. The problem must be testable
f. Problems must be stated in the form of questions
g. Has feasibility
h. In accordance with the qualifications of researcher
5. The general problem formulation model can be divided into three forms, namely
descriptive, comparative, and associative problem formulation.
6. There are six (6) benchmarks in conducting problem formulation analysis, namely:
a. Does the formulation of the problem link two more factors?
b. Is the formulation of the problem separated from the research objectives?

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 c. Is the description descriptive only or is it accompanied by a research question, or
is it only a research question?
d. Is the description of the problem specifically presented so that it can meet the
criteria of "inclusions" or is it still so generally that the criteria are not met?
e. Is the word "work hypothesis" explicitly related to the research problem? Or is it
only stated implicitly?
f. Is the study limitation explicitly stated in terms of "focus" explicitly or not, and is
focus a problem?
7. Some principles in the formulation of problems, including:
a. Principles relating to theory from the base
b. Principles relating to the intentions of problem formulation
c. The principle of factor relationships
d. Focus as a vehicle to limit study
e. Principles relating to inclusion-exclusion criteria
f. Principles relating to the form and manner of problem formulation
g. Principle with respect to the position of the formulation of the problem
h. Principles relating to the results of a literature review
8. Literature Review is reading material related to research objects that have been made
which are used to analyze the research object being studied.
9. How to arrange a literature study can be divided into two groups, namely:
a. In accordance with years of research and in accordance with the relevance and
closeness of the object
b. Descriptive and descriptive analytical
10. Hypothesis is a temporary statement or allegation of the state of the population that
will be examined against the problem raised.
11. The characteristics of a good hypothesis is that it must state the relationship, according
to the facts and can explain it, relate to science and in accordance with the growth of
science, testable, and simple.
12. The type of hypothesis in terms of the formulation of the problem can be divided into
a working hypothesis and a null hypothesis. Whereas based on the process of
acquisition it can be divided into a deductive hypothesis and an inductive hypothesis.
13. The hypothesis serves to provide a temporary explanation of the symptoms and
facilitate the expansion of knowledge in a field; provide a statement of the relationship

26
 that took place can be tested in research; give direction to research; and provide a
framework for reporting the conclusion of an investigation.

3.2. SUGGESTION
1. Because the formulation of the problem is the upstream of a study, we must arrange it
well so that the research conducted can be maximized and useful.
2. Formulation of the problem should be made in the form of clear and concise questions.
3. Hopefully with the preparation of this paper can be useful for readers and add to the
treasury of knowledge, especially in making the formulation of problems in research.

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 REFERENCES

Moh, Nazir. 1999. Metode Penelitian. Jakarta: Ghalia Indonesia.
 Sugiyono. 2007. Metode

Penelitian Bisinis. Bandung : ALFABETA.


Wayan Murjana Yasa,I Gst.2004.Metodologi Penelitian.Denpasar:Universitas Udayana

Sekaran, Uma. 2006. Metodologi Penelitian untuk Bisnis 2. Edisi 4. Jakarta: Salemba Empat

Rahyuda, I Ketut. 2016. Metode Penelitian Bisnis. Denpasar: Udayana University Press

Sugiyono. 2007. Metode Penelitian Bisnis, Bandung: Alfabeta

http://anggunfreeze.blogspot.com/2012/10/identifikasi-pemilihan-dan-perumusan.html

http://expresisastra.blogspot.com/2013/09/pengertian-penelitian-dan-masalah-penelitian.html

http://www.galeripustaka.com/2013/05/sumber-masalah-dalam-penelitian.html

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