How to Write the Background of the Problem for an Education Dissertation

How to write the Background of the Problem for an education dissertation. The Background of the Problem in an education dissertation explains the context of your research topic and shows why your study is needed. It introduces the educational issue you are investigating, summarizes relevant research, and identifies gaps in existing knowledge or practice in education.

This section is essential because it connects real classroom or institutional challenges with academic research and leads directly to your research question or aim.

What Is the Background of the Problem in Education?

In an education dissertation, the Background of the Problem is located in Chapter 1 and:

• Introduces the broader educational context (e.g., teaching, learning, policy)

• Describes the specific educational issue being studied

• Summarizes existing research and educational theory

• Identifies gaps or limitations in current knowledge

• Explains why the issue is important in education practice

• Leads into the research aim or question

In simple terms, it answers: “What educational issue are you studying, and why does it matter?”

Why Is It Important in an Education Dissertation?

The Background of the Problem is important because it:

• Shows your understanding of educational theory and research

• Connects your topic to real classroom or institutional issues

• Justifies the need for your study

• Identifies gaps in existing educational research

• Helps build a clear foundation for your dissertation

Without a clear background, your research may lack focus and relevance.

Step 1: Introduce the Broad Educational Context

Start by introducing the general area of education your research focuses on.

Example:

If your topic is online learning:

• Begin with digital education or modern teaching methods

• Discuss the growth of technology in education

This gives the reader context before narrowing your focus.

Step 2: Narrow Down to a Specific Educational Problem

Move from the broad context to a specific issue.

Example:

• Broad topic: Technology in education

• Specific problem: Decreased student engagement in online learning environments

This step defines the exact focus of your study.

Step 3: Use Educational Research and Theory

Support your background with relevant educational research and theories.

Include:

• Studies on teaching and learning

• Educational theories (e.g., constructivism, social learning theory)

• Research on student outcomes or teaching strategies

• Policy documents or institutional reports

Example:

Research on student engagement may include:

• Studies on online learning effectiveness

• Theories of active learning

• Research on digital classroom participation

This strengthens the academic foundation of your study.

Step 4: Identify the Research Gap

A strong education background must clearly show what is missing in existing research.

Common gaps include:

• Limited research in a specific educational setting (e.g., higher education, primary schools)

• Lack of focus on certain student groups

• Conflicting findings about teaching methods

• Limited research on new technologies or policies

• Missing qualitative or quantitative perspectives

Example:

“Although online learning has been widely studied, limited research has explored its impact on student engagement in postgraduate education settings.”

This gap justifies your study.

Step 5: Explain the Importance of the Problem in Education

You should explain why the issue matters in real educational practice.

Consider:

• Impact on student learning and achievement

• Effects on teaching practices

• Relevance to schools, universities, or policymakers

• Contribution to improving educational outcomes

Example:

Low student engagement in online learning may negatively affect academic performance and long-term learning outcomes.

Step 6: Link to Your Research Aim or Question

End your background by clearly leading into your research aim or question.

Example:

“Given the increasing use of online learning in higher education, this study aims to investigate factors influencing student engagement in virtual learning environments.”

This creates a smooth transition into the methodology section.

Tips for Writing a Strong Education Background of the Problem

• Start with a broad educational context

• Narrow down step by step to your specific problem

• Use recent and relevant educational research

• Include educational theories where appropriate

• Clearly identify the research gap

• Maintain a clear, logical flow

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Students often make mistakes such as:

• Staying too broad without focusing on a specific problem

• Overloading the section with unrelated literature

• Failing to clearly define the educational issue

• Not identifying a research gap

• Jumping too quickly to the research question

A well-structured background improves clarity and academic quality.

Final Thoughts on How to Write the Background of the Problem for an Education Dissertation

The Background of the Problem is a key part of an education dissertation because it explains the educational issue being studied and why it matters. By combining educational theory, research evidence, and real-world relevance, you create a strong foundation for your study.

A clear and focused background helps justify your research and ensures your dissertation is meaningful and academically sound.

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