delimitation of a research project

Research Limitations & Delimitations

What they are and how they’re different (with examples)

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewed By: David Phair (PhD) | September 2022

If you’re new to the world of research, you’ve probably heard the terms “ research limitations ” and “ research delimitations ” being thrown around, often quite loosely. In this post, we’ll unpack what both of these mean, how they’re similar and how they’re different – so that you can write up these sections the right way.

Overview: Limitations vs Delimitations

• Are they the same?
• What are research limitations
• What are research delimitations
• Limitations vs delimitations

First things first…

Let’s start with the most important takeaway point of this post – research limitations and research delimitations are not the same – but they are related to each other (we’ll unpack that a little later). So, if you hear someone using these two words interchangeably, be sure to share this post with them!

Research Limitations

Research limitations are, at the simplest level, the weaknesses of the study , based on factors that are often outside of your control as the researcher. These factors could include things like time , access to funding, equipment , data or participants . For example, if you weren’t able to access a random sample of participants for your study and had to adopt a convenience sampling strategy instead, that would impact the generalizability of your findings and therefore reflect a limitation of your study.

Research limitations can also emerge from the research design itself . For example, if you were undertaking a correlational study, you wouldn’t be able to infer causality (since correlation doesn’t mean certain causation). Similarly, if you utilised online surveys to collect data from your participants, you naturally wouldn’t be able to get the same degree of rich data that you would from in-person interviews .

Simply put, research limitations reflect the shortcomings of a study , based on practical (or theoretical) constraints that the researcher faced. These shortcomings limit what you can conclude from a study, but at the same time, present a foundation for future research . Importantly, all research has limitations , so there’s no need to hide anything here – as long as you discuss how the limitations might affect your findings, it’s all good.

Research Delimitations

Alright, now that we’ve unpacked the limitations, let’s move on to the delimitations .

Research delimitations are similar to limitations in that they also “ limit ” the study, but their focus is entirely different. Specifically, the delimitations of a study refer to the scope of the research aims and research questions . In other words, delimitations reflect the choices you, as the researcher, intentionally make in terms of what you will and won’t try to achieve with your study. In other words, what your research aims and research questions will and won’t include.

As we’ve spoken about many times before, it’s important to have a tight, narrow focus for your research, so that you can dive deeply into your topic, apply your energy to one specific area and develop meaningful insights. If you have an overly broad scope or unfocused topic, your research will often pull in multiple, even opposing directions, and you’ll just land up with a muddy mess of findings .

So, the delimitations section is where you’ll clearly state what your research aims and research questions will focus on – and just as importantly, what they will exclude . For example, you might investigate a widespread phenomenon, but choose to focus your study on a specific age group, ethnicity or gender. Similarly, your study may focus exclusively on one country, city or even organization. As long as the scope is well justified (in other words, it represents a novel, valuable research topic), this is perfectly acceptable – in fact, it’s essential. Remember, focus is your friend.

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Conclusion: Limitations vs Delimitations

Ok, so let’s recap.

Research limitations and research delimitations are related in that they both refer to “limits” within a study. But, they are distinctly different. Limitations reflect the shortcomings of your study, based on practical or theoretical constraints that you faced.

Contrasted to that, delimitations reflect the choices that you made in terms of the focus and scope of your research aims and research questions. If you want to learn more about research aims and questions, you can check out this video post , where we unpack those concepts in detail.

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18 Comments

Good clarification of ideas on how a researcher ought to do during Process of choice

Thank you so much for this very simple but explicit explanation on limitation and delimitation. It has so helped me to develop my masters proposal. hope to recieve more from your site as time progresses

Thank you for this explanation – very clear.

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Thank you very much for helping to explain these two terms

I spent almost the whole day trying to figure out the differences

when I came across your notes everything became very clear

thanks for the clearly outlined explanation on the two terms, limitation and delimitation.

Very helpful Many thanks 🙏

Excellent it resolved my conflict .

I would like you to assist me please. If in my Research, I interviewed some participants and I submitted Questionnaires to other participants to answered to the questions, in the same organization, Is this a Qualitative methodology , a Quantitative Methodology or is it a Mixture Methodology I have used in my research? Please help me

How do I cite this article in APA format

Really so great ,finally have understood it’s difference now

Getting more clear regarding Limitations and Delimitation and concepts

I really appreciate your apt and precise explanation of the two concepts namely ; Limitations and Delimitations.

This is a good sources of research information for learners.

thank you for this, very helpful to researchers

Very good explained

Great and clear explanation, after a long confusion period on the two words, i can now explain to someone with ease.

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Scope and Delimitations – Explained & Example

• By DiscoverPhDs
• October 2, 2020

What Is Scope and Delimitation in Research?

The scope and delimitations of a thesis, dissertation or research paper define the topic and boundaries of the research problem to be investigated.

The scope details how in-depth your study is to explore the research question and the parameters in which it will operate in relation to the population and timeframe.

The delimitations of a study are the factors and variables not to be included in the investigation. In other words, they are the boundaries the researcher sets in terms of study duration, population size and type of participants, etc.

Difference Between Delimitations and Limitations

Delimitations refer to the boundaries of the research study, based on the researcher’s decision of what to include and what to exclude. They narrow your study to make it more manageable and relevant to what you are trying to prove.

Limitations relate to the validity and reliability of the study. They are characteristics of the research design or methodology that are out of your control but influence your research findings. Because of this, they determine the internal and external validity of your study and are considered potential weaknesses.

In other words, limitations are what the researcher cannot do (elements outside of their control) and delimitations are what the researcher will not do (elements outside of the boundaries they have set). Both are important because they help to put the research findings into context, and although they explain how the study is limited, they increase the credibility and validity of a research project.

Guidelines on How to Write a Scope

A good scope statement will answer the following six questions:

• Why – the general aims and objectives (purpose) of the research.
• What – the subject to be investigated, and the included variables.
• Where – the location or setting of the study, i.e. where the data will be gathered and to which entity the data will belong.
• When – the timeframe within which the data is to be collected.
• Who – the subject matter of the study and the population from which they will be selected. This population needs to be large enough to be able to make generalisations.
• How – how the research is to be conducted, including a description of the research design (e.g. whether it is experimental research, qualitative research or a case study), methodology, research tools and analysis techniques.

To make things as clear as possible, you should also state why specific variables were omitted from the research scope, and whether this was because it was a delimitation or a limitation. You should also explain why they could not be overcome with standard research methods backed up by scientific evidence.

How to Start Writing Your Study Scope

Use the below prompts as an effective way to start writing your scope:

• This study is to focus on…
• This study covers the…
• This study aims to…

Guidelines on How to Write Delimitations

Since the delimitation parameters are within the researcher’s control, readers need to know why they were set, what alternative options were available, and why these alternatives were rejected. For example, if you are collecting data that can be derived from three different but similar experiments, the reader needs to understand how and why you decided to select the one you have.

Your reasons should always be linked back to your research question, as all delimitations should result from trying to make your study more relevant to your scope. Therefore, the scope and delimitations are usually considered together when writing a paper.

How to Start Writing Your Study Delimitations

Use the below prompts as an effective way to start writing your study delimitations:

• This study does not cover…
• This study is limited to…
• The following has been excluded from this study…

Examples of Delimitation in Research

Examples of delimitations include:

• research objectives,
• research questions,
• research variables,
• target populations,
• statistical analysis techniques .

Examples of Limitations in Research

Examples of limitations include:

• Issues with sample and selection,
• Insufficient sample size, population traits or specific participants for statistical significance,
• Lack of previous research studies on the topic which has allowed for further analysis,
• Limitations in the technology/instruments used to collect your data,
• Limited financial resources and/or funding constraints.

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Setting Limits and Focusing Your Study: Exploring scope and delimitation

As a researcher, it can be easy to get lost in the vast expanse of information and data available. Thus, when starting a research project, one of the most important things to consider is the scope and delimitation of the study. Setting limits and focusing your study is essential to ensure that the research project is manageable, relevant, and able to produce useful results. In this article, we will explore the importance of setting limits and focusing your study through an in-depth analysis of scope and delimitation.

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Table of Contents

Scope and Delimitation – Definition and difference

Scope refers to the range of the research project and the study limitations set in place to define the boundaries of the project and delimitation refers to the specific aspects of the research project that the study will focus on.

In simpler words, scope is the breadth of your study, while delimitation is the depth of your study.

Scope and delimitation are both essential components of a research project, and they are often confused with one another. The scope defines the parameters of the study, while delimitation sets the boundaries within those parameters. The scope and delimitation of a study are usually established early on in the research process and guide the rest of the project.

Types of Scope and Delimitation

Significance of Scope and Delimitation

Setting limits and focusing your study through scope and delimitation is crucial for the following reasons:

• It allows researchers to define the research project’s boundaries, enabling them to focus on specific aspects of the project. This focus makes it easier to gather relevant data and avoid unnecessary information that might complicate the study’s results.
• Setting limits and focusing your study through scope and delimitation enables the researcher to stay within the parameters of the project’s resources.
• A well-defined scope and delimitation ensure that the research project can be completed within the available resources, such as time and budget, while still achieving the project’s objectives.

5 Steps to Setting Limits and Defining the Scope and Delimitation of Your Study

There are a few steps that you can take to set limits and focus your study.

1. Identify your research question or topic

The first step is to identify what you are interested in learning about. The research question should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Once you have a research question or topic, you can start to narrow your focus.

2. Consider the key terms or concepts related to your topic

What are the important terms or concepts that you need to understand in order to answer your research question? Consider all available resources, such as time, budget, and data availability, when setting scope and delimitation.

The scope and delimitation should be established within the parameters of the available resources. Once you have identified the key terms or concepts, you can start to develop a glossary or list of definitions.

3. Consider the different perspectives on your topic

There are often different perspectives on any given topic. Get feedback on the proposed scope and delimitation. Advisors can provide guidance on the feasibility of the study and offer suggestions for improvement.

It is important to consider all of the different perspectives in order to get a well-rounded understanding of your topic.

4. Narrow your focus

Be specific and concise when setting scope and delimitation. The parameters of the study should be clearly defined to avoid ambiguity and ensure that the study is focused on relevant aspects of the research question.

This means deciding which aspects of your topic you will focus on and which aspects you will eliminate.

5. Develop the final research plan

Revisit and revise the scope and delimitation as needed. As the research project progresses, the scope and delimitation may need to be adjusted to ensure that the study remains focused on the research question and can produce useful results. This plan should include your research goals, methods, and timeline.

Examples of Scope and Delimitation

To better understand scope and delimitation, let us consider two examples of research questions and how scope and delimitation would apply to them.

Research question: What are the effects of social media on mental health?

Scope: The scope of the study will focus on the impact of social media on the mental health of young adults aged 18-24 in the United States.

Delimitation: The study will specifically examine the following aspects of social media: frequency of use, types of social media platforms used, and the impact of social media on self-esteem and body image.

Research question: What are the factors that influence employee job satisfaction in the healthcare industry?

Scope: The scope of the study will focus on employee job satisfaction in the healthcare industry in the United States.

Delimitation: The study will specifically examine the following factors that influence employee job satisfaction: salary, work-life balance, job security, and opportunities for career growth.

Setting limits and defining the scope and delimitation of a research study is essential to conducting effective research. By doing so, researchers can ensure that their study is focused, manageable, and feasible within the given time frame and resources. It can also help to identify areas that require further study, providing a foundation for future research.

So, the next time you embark on a research project, don’t forget to set clear limits and define the scope and delimitation of your study. It may seem like a tedious task, but it can ultimately lead to more meaningful and impactful research. And if you still can’t find a solution, reach out to Enago Academy using #AskEnago and tag @EnagoAcademy on Twitter , Facebook , and Quora .

Frequently Asked Questions

The scope in research refers to the boundaries and extent of a study, defining its specific objectives, target population, variables, methods, and limitations, which helps researchers focus and provide a clear understanding of what will be investigated.

Delimitation in research defines the specific boundaries and limitations of a study, such as geographical, temporal, or conceptual constraints, outlining what will be excluded or not within the scope of investigation, providing clarity and ensuring the study remains focused and manageable.

To write a scope; 1. Clearly define research objectives. 2. Identify specific research questions. 3. Determine the target population for the study. 4. Outline the variables to be investigated. 5. Establish limitations and constraints. 6. Set boundaries and extent of the investigation. 7. Ensure focus, clarity, and manageability. 8. Provide context for the research project.

To write delimitations; 1. Identify geographical boundaries or constraints. 2. Define the specific time period or timeframe of the study. 3. Specify the sample size or selection criteria. 4. Clarify any demographic limitations (e.g., age, gender, occupation). 5. Address any limitations related to data collection methods. 6. Consider limitations regarding the availability of resources or data. 7. Exclude specific variables or factors from the scope of the study. 8. Clearly state any conceptual boundaries or theoretical frameworks. 9. Acknowledge any potential biases or constraints in the research design. 10. Ensure that the delimitations provide a clear focus and scope for the study.

What is an example of delimitation of the study?

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Scope and Delimitations in Academic Research

Table of contents

• 1.1 Examples of Elements Included in the Scope
• 2.1 Examples of Delimitations in Research
• 3 Determining the Scope and Delimitation
• 4 Writing the Scope and Delimitations Section
• 5 Conclusion

Understanding the scope and delimitations of a study is crucial for defining its parameters and ensuring focused research efforts. What are delimitations in a research study? These components establish the boundaries within which the research will operate and clarify what the study aims to explore and achieve. This article delves into the significance of clearly defining the scope and every delimitation, how they guide the research focus, and their roles in shaping the research process. Additionally, it provides insights into determining these aspects and articulating them effectively in a research proposal or paper. Transitioning smoothly into the main discussion, let’s explore the importance of scope in research, guiding the focus.

The importance of Clearly Defining the Scope of the Study for Guiding Research Focus

The scope of research delineates its extent or range of inquiry, setting clear parameters for what the study will cover. It’s a foundational aspect that guides every step of the research process, from the formulation of research questions to the interpretation of results. Defining the scope helps in focusing the research efforts, ensuring that the study remains manageable and within realistic bounds.

Understanding the scope and limitation of the study allows researchers to allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that every aspect of the study receives adequate attention. It also helps in avoiding the common pitfall of overreaching, which can dilute the research’s impact and make findings less actionable. By setting a defined scope, researchers can more easily communicate their work’s relevance, limitations and delimitations in the research process to stakeholders, enhancing the credibility and applicability of their findings. Furthermore, a well-defined scope can facilitate a more targeted and effective literature review, laying a solid foundation for the research study.

When navigating the complexities of defining a study’s scope, researchers might seek external support to ensure their research is concise, well-structured, and impactful. A writing service , PapersOwl offers a spectrum tailored to meet academic research’s unique demands. Their expertise can be particularly beneficial in refining research proposals, ensuring the scope is clearly communicated and aligned with academic standards. Engaging with such a service allows researchers to benefit from professional insights, which can enhance the coherence and focus of their work. This collaboration can be instrumental in identifying the most relevant study areas and avoiding unnecessary diversions. With PapersOwl’s support, researchers can ensure their project’s scope is well-defined and compellingly presented, making a strong case for its significance and feasibility. This partnership can be a strategic step towards achieving a study’s specific objectives, ensuring it contributes valuable insights within its defined boundaries.

Examples of Elements Included in the Scope

Defining the scope of a research project is akin to drawing a map for a journey; it outlines the terrain to be explored and the boundaries within which the exploration will occur. This clarity is essential for guiding the research process, ensuring the investigation remains focused and relevant. The scope encompasses various elements, each contributing to the overall direction and integrity of the study. Let’s delve into some of these key elements:

• Research Objectives : The specific aim the study is designed to achieve.
• Geographical Coverage: The physical or virtual locations where the research is conducted.
• Time Frame: The period during which the study takes place, which could range from a few days to several years.
• Subject: The specific topics or issues the research intends to address.
• Population Being Studied: The group of individuals, organizations, or phenomena being investigated.

These components of the scope serve as critical navigational tools in the research journey. They ensure that the study remains grounded in its objectives, relevant to its intended audience or population, and manageable within its temporal and geographical constraints. By carefully defining these elements at the outset, researchers can avoid common pitfalls such as scope creep, where the study’s focus broadens uncontrollably, potentially diluting its impact and significance. A well-defined scope is instrumental in crafting a focused, coherent, and impactful research project.

Role of Delimitations in Qualitative Research

Delimitations in research examples specify the boundaries set by the investigator on what the study will not cover, distinguishing them from limitations, which are potential weaknesses in the study not controlled by the researcher. Delimitations are choices made to narrow the scope of a study, focusing on specific aspects while excluding others. In the intricate tapestry of research design, delimitations play a pivotal role in sharpening the focus and enhancing the clarity of a study. By explicitly stating what the research will not explore, delimitations help prevent the dispersion of the research efforts across too broad an area, thereby increasing the depth and specificity of the investigation. This strategic narrowing allows researchers to concentrate their inquiries on areas most likely to yield impactful insights, making efficient use of available resources and time.

One might wonder how to establish these boundaries effectively without compromising the potential breadth of discovery. Here, the expertise provided by platforms like PapersOwl, particularly their research paper help service, becomes invaluable. Their seasoned professionals can offer guidance on crafting a research design that is both focused and flexible, assisting in identifying and justifying delimitations that enhance the study’s relevance and feasibility. Through such collaboration, researchers can balance the scope and delimitation of the study, ensuring that it remains grounded in its objectives while open to unforeseen insights.

Furthermore, acknowledging delimitations in a research paper demonstrates a researcher’s critical understanding of their study’s context and constraints, enhancing the credibility of their work. It shows a mindful engagement with the research process, recognizing that by setting deliberate boundaries, the study can delve more deeply and meaningfully into its chosen area of inquiry. Thus, when thoughtfully articulated with support from research paper writing help, like that offered by PapersOwl, delimitation in research becomes a testament to the rigor and integrity of its effort.

Examples of Delimitations in Research

Delimitations in research are akin to the guardrails on a highway; they keep the investigation on track and prevent it from veering into less relevant or overly broad territories. Below are some examples of how researchers can apply delimitations to fine-tune their investigations:

• Restricting the Study to Certain Age Groups: Focusing on a specific demographic, such as teenagers or the elderly.
• Geographic Locations: Limiting the research to a particular country, city, or region.
• Specific Periods: Studying a phenomenon during a particular time frame, ignoring other periods.

Setting these research delimitations is not about narrowing the vision of the research, but rather about sharpening its focus. It allows for a more thorough and nuanced exploration of the chosen subjects, leading to more precise findings and general delimitation meaning in research. Delimitations highlight the researcher’s awareness of the study’s scope and commitment to conducting a focused, manageable investigation.

Determining the Scope and Delimitation

Identifying the scope and delimitations of your research involves understanding the research problem deeply and recognizing what is feasible within the constraints of time, resources, and data availability. Strategies for determining these include:

• Reviewing existing literature to identify gaps and opportunities.
• Consulting with experts or advisors to refine research questions.
• Considering data availability and methodological constraints.

Balancing the scope and delimitations involves ensuring the research is neither too broad, unmanageable, nor too narrow, limiting its significance. Crafting a research project that strikes the right balance between breadth and depth is a nuanced task. It requires a researcher to be acutely aware of where their study begins and ends, what it encompasses, and what it intentionally leaves out. This equilibrium is not found in isolation but through a diligent exploration of the field and an understanding of how to best position one’s work within it. A key step in this process is identifying and sourcing relevant literature and data, which can significantly influence the scope of research.

Leveraging resources such as PapersOwl’s guide on how to find sources for research papers can prove invaluable in this phase. This platform provides insights into locating credible and relevant information, ensuring that researchers build their work upon a solid foundation of existing knowledge. By understanding how to navigate the vast, effective ocean of available data, researchers can make informed decisions about the direction and limits of their study. This meticulous preparation is crucial for defining the scope and delimitations and justifying them within the context of the research proposal or paper. It demonstrates a researcher’s commitment to rigor and depth, showing that their choices are informed by a comprehensive understanding of the subject and its existing body of literature.

Writing the Scope and Delimitations Section

Articulating the scope and delimitations in a research paper or proposal is crucial for setting clear expectations. It should clearly define delimitations and what the study will and will not cover, providing a rationale for these choices. Effective wording and structure involve:

• Stating the research objectives and questions upfront.
• Describing the research methodology , data collection methods and analysis.
• Outlining the geographical coverage, time frame, and subject matter.
• Clearly stating the delimitations and the reasons behind them.

The presentation of the scope and delimitations within a research document not only guides the readers through the intentions of the research but also establishes a framework for evaluating the findings. It’s a critical section where transparency and precision are paramount, allowing the audience to grasp the extent of the study and the rationale behind its boundaries. This transparency is essential for the credibility of the research, as it demonstrates a conscious and deliberate effort to focus the investigation and acknowledges the existence of boundaries that the study does not cross.

To ensure clarity and impact, this section should seamlessly integrate with the overall narrative of the research proposal or paper. Researchers are advised to avoid jargon and overly technical language, making the research scope and delimitations accessible to a broader audience. This includes a layperson who may not have deep expertise in the field but an interest in the study’s outcomes. Additionally, it is beneficial to highlight how the defined study scope and delimitations contribute to addressing the research problem, filling knowledge gaps, or exploring uncharted territories.

Moreover, this part of the document offers an opportunity to discuss how the chosen delimitations enhance the study’s focus and depth. By justifying the exclusions, researchers can address potential critiques head-on, reinforcing the methodological choices and underscoring the study’s contribution to the field. This careful articulation ensures that the research is perceived as a well-thought-out endeavor, grounded in a strategic approach to inquiry.

The scope and delimitations of a study are foundational elements that guide the research process, setting clear boundaries and focusing efforts. By defining these aspects clearly, researchers can provide a clear roadmap for their investigation, ensuring that their work is both manageable and relevant. By consciously deciding what to exclude from the study, researchers can intensify their focus on the chosen subject, ensuring that the research efforts are concentrated where they are most needed and can be most effective. These self-imposed boundaries are critical for maintaining the study’s coherence and depth. This clarity not only aids in conducting the research but also in effectively communicating its implications, limits, and outcomes.

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Stating the Obvious: Writing Assumptions, Limitations, and Delimitations

During the process of writing your thesis or dissertation, you might suddenly realize that your research has inherent flaws. Don’t worry! Virtually all projects contain restrictions to your research. However, being able to recognize and accurately describe these problems is the difference between a true researcher and a grade-school kid with a science-fair project. Concerns with truthful responding, access to participants, and survey instruments are just a few of examples of restrictions on your research. In the following sections, the differences among delimitations, limitations, and assumptions of a dissertation will be clarified.

Delimitations

Delimitations are the definitions you set as the boundaries of your own thesis or dissertation, so delimitations are in your control. Delimitations are set so that your goals do not become impossibly large to complete. Examples of delimitations include objectives, research questions, variables, theoretical objectives that you have adopted, and populations chosen as targets to study. When you are stating your delimitations, clearly inform readers why you chose this course of study. The answer might simply be that you were curious about the topic and/or wanted to improve standards of a professional field by revealing certain findings. In any case, you should clearly list the other options available and the reasons why you did not choose these options immediately after you list your delimitations. You might have avoided these options for reasons of practicality, interest, or relativity to the study at hand. For example, you might have only studied Hispanic mothers because they have the highest rate of obese babies. Delimitations are often strongly related to your theory and research questions. If you were researching whether there are different parenting styles between unmarried Asian, Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic women, then a delimitation of your study would be the inclusion of only participants with those demographics and the exclusion of participants from other demographics such as men, married women, and all other ethnicities of single women (inclusion and exclusion criteria). A further delimitation might be that you only included closed-ended Likert scale responses in the survey, rather than including additional open-ended responses, which might make some people more willing to take and complete your survey. Remember that delimitations are not good or bad. They are simply a detailed description of the scope of interest for your study as it relates to the research design. Don’t forget to describe the philosophical framework you used throughout your study, which also delimits your study.

Limitations

Limitations of a dissertation are potential weaknesses in your study that are mostly out of your control, given limited funding, choice of research design, statistical model constraints, or other factors. In addition, a limitation is a restriction on your study that cannot be reasonably dismissed and can affect your design and results. Do not worry about limitations because limitations affect virtually all research projects, as well as most things in life. Even when you are going to your favorite restaurant, you are limited by the menu choices. If you went to a restaurant that had a menu that you were craving, you might not receive the service, price, or location that makes you enjoy your favorite restaurant. If you studied participants’ responses to a survey, you might be limited in your abilities to gain the exact type or geographic scope of participants you wanted. The people whom you managed to get to take your survey may not truly be a random sample, which is also a limitation. If you used a common test for data findings, your results are limited by the reliability of the test. If your study was limited to a certain amount of time, your results are affected by the operations of society during that time period (e.g., economy, social trends). It is important for you to remember that limitations of a dissertation are often not something that can be solved by the researcher. Also, remember that whatever limits you also limits other researchers, whether they are the largest medical research companies or consumer habits corporations. Certain kinds of limitations are often associated with the analytical approach you take in your research, too. For example, some qualitative methods like heuristics or phenomenology do not lend themselves well to replicability. Also, most of the commonly used quantitative statistical models can only determine correlation, but not causation.

Assumptions

Assumptions are things that are accepted as true, or at least plausible, by researchers and peers who will read your dissertation or thesis. In other words, any scholar reading your paper will assume that certain aspects of your study is true given your population, statistical test, research design, or other delimitations. For example, if you tell your friend that your favorite restaurant is an Italian place, your friend will assume that you don’t go there for the sushi. It’s assumed that you go there to eat Italian food. Because most assumptions are not discussed in-text, assumptions that are discussed in-text are discussed in the context of the limitations of your study, which is typically in the discussion section. This is important, because both assumptions and limitations affect the inferences you can draw from your study. One of the more common assumptions made in survey research is the assumption of honesty and truthful responses. However, for certain sensitive questions this assumption may be more difficult to accept, in which case it would be described as a limitation of the study. For example, asking people to report their criminal behavior in a survey may not be as reliable as asking people to report their eating habits. It is important to remember that your limitations and assumptions should not contradict one another. For instance, if you state that generalizability is a limitation of your study given that your sample was limited to one city in the United States, then you should not claim generalizability to the United States population as an assumption of your study. Statistical models in quantitative research designs are accompanied with assumptions as well, some more strict than others. These assumptions generally refer to the characteristics of the data, such as distributions, correlational trends, and variable type, just to name a few. Violating these assumptions can lead to drastically invalid results, though this often depends on sample size and other considerations.

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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

• Limitations of the Study
• Purpose of Guide
• Design Flaws to Avoid
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• Glossary of Research Terms
• Reading Research Effectively
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The limitations of the study are those characteristics of design or methodology that impacted or influenced the interpretation of the findings from your research. Study limitations are the constraints placed on the ability to generalize from the results, to further describe applications to practice, and/or related to the utility of findings that are the result of the ways in which you initially chose to design the study or the method used to establish internal and external validity or the result of unanticipated challenges that emerged during the study.

Price, James H. and Judy Murnan. “Research Limitations and the Necessity of Reporting Them.” American Journal of Health Education 35 (2004): 66-67; Theofanidis, Dimitrios and Antigoni Fountouki. "Limitations and Delimitations in the Research Process." Perioperative Nursing 7 (September-December 2018): 155-163. .

Importance of...

Always acknowledge a study's limitations. It is far better that you identify and acknowledge your study’s limitations than to have them pointed out by your professor and have your grade lowered because you appeared to have ignored them or didn't realize they existed.

Keep in mind that acknowledgment of a study's limitations is an opportunity to make suggestions for further research. If you do connect your study's limitations to suggestions for further research, be sure to explain the ways in which these unanswered questions may become more focused because of your study.

Acknowledgment of a study's limitations also provides you with opportunities to demonstrate that you have thought critically about the research problem, understood the relevant literature published about it, and correctly assessed the methods chosen for studying the problem. A key objective of the research process is not only discovering new knowledge but also to confront assumptions and explore what we don't know.

Claiming limitations is a subjective process because you must evaluate the impact of those limitations . Don't just list key weaknesses and the magnitude of a study's limitations. To do so diminishes the validity of your research because it leaves the reader wondering whether, or in what ways, limitation(s) in your study may have impacted the results and conclusions. Limitations require a critical, overall appraisal and interpretation of their impact. You should answer the question: do these problems with errors, methods, validity, etc. eventually matter and, if so, to what extent?

Price, James H. and Judy Murnan. “Research Limitations and the Necessity of Reporting Them.” American Journal of Health Education 35 (2004): 66-67; Structure: How to Structure the Research Limitations Section of Your Dissertation. Dissertations and Theses: An Online Textbook. Laerd.com.

Descriptions of Possible Limitations

All studies have limitations . However, it is important that you restrict your discussion to limitations related to the research problem under investigation. For example, if a meta-analysis of existing literature is not a stated purpose of your research, it should not be discussed as a limitation. Do not apologize for not addressing issues that you did not promise to investigate in the introduction of your paper.

Here are examples of limitations related to methodology and the research process you may need to describe and discuss how they possibly impacted your results. Note that descriptions of limitations should be stated in the past tense because they were discovered after you completed your research.

Possible Methodological Limitations

• Sample size -- the number of the units of analysis you use in your study is dictated by the type of research problem you are investigating. Note that, if your sample size is too small, it will be difficult to find significant relationships from the data, as statistical tests normally require a larger sample size to ensure a representative distribution of the population and to be considered representative of groups of people to whom results will be generalized or transferred. Note that sample size is generally less relevant in qualitative research if explained in the context of the research problem.
• Lack of available and/or reliable data -- a lack of data or of reliable data will likely require you to limit the scope of your analysis, the size of your sample, or it can be a significant obstacle in finding a trend and a meaningful relationship. You need to not only describe these limitations but provide cogent reasons why you believe data is missing or is unreliable. However, don’t just throw up your hands in frustration; use this as an opportunity to describe a need for future research based on designing a different method for gathering data.
• Lack of prior research studies on the topic -- citing prior research studies forms the basis of your literature review and helps lay a foundation for understanding the research problem you are investigating. Depending on the currency or scope of your research topic, there may be little, if any, prior research on your topic. Before assuming this to be true, though, consult with a librarian! In cases when a librarian has confirmed that there is little or no prior research, you may be required to develop an entirely new research typology [for example, using an exploratory rather than an explanatory research design ]. Note again that discovering a limitation can serve as an important opportunity to identify new gaps in the literature and to describe the need for further research.
• Measure used to collect the data -- sometimes it is the case that, after completing your interpretation of the findings, you discover that the way in which you gathered data inhibited your ability to conduct a thorough analysis of the results. For example, you regret not including a specific question in a survey that, in retrospect, could have helped address a particular issue that emerged later in the study. Acknowledge the deficiency by stating a need for future researchers to revise the specific method for gathering data.
• Self-reported data -- whether you are relying on pre-existing data or you are conducting a qualitative research study and gathering the data yourself, self-reported data is limited by the fact that it rarely can be independently verified. In other words, you have to the accuracy of what people say, whether in interviews, focus groups, or on questionnaires, at face value. However, self-reported data can contain several potential sources of bias that you should be alert to and note as limitations. These biases become apparent if they are incongruent with data from other sources. These are: (1) selective memory [remembering or not remembering experiences or events that occurred at some point in the past]; (2) telescoping [recalling events that occurred at one time as if they occurred at another time]; (3) attribution [the act of attributing positive events and outcomes to one's own agency, but attributing negative events and outcomes to external forces]; and, (4) exaggeration [the act of representing outcomes or embellishing events as more significant than is actually suggested from other data].

Possible Limitations of the Researcher

• Access -- if your study depends on having access to people, organizations, data, or documents and, for whatever reason, access is denied or limited in some way, the reasons for this needs to be described. Also, include an explanation why being denied or limited access did not prevent you from following through on your study.
• Longitudinal effects -- unlike your professor, who can literally devote years [even a lifetime] to studying a single topic, the time available to investigate a research problem and to measure change or stability over time is constrained by the due date of your assignment. Be sure to choose a research problem that does not require an excessive amount of time to complete the literature review, apply the methodology, and gather and interpret the results. If you're unsure whether you can complete your research within the confines of the assignment's due date, talk to your professor.
• Cultural and other type of bias -- we all have biases, whether we are conscience of them or not. Bias is when a person, place, event, or thing is viewed or shown in a consistently inaccurate way. Bias is usually negative, though one can have a positive bias as well, especially if that bias reflects your reliance on research that only support your hypothesis. When proof-reading your paper, be especially critical in reviewing how you have stated a problem, selected the data to be studied, what may have been omitted, the manner in which you have ordered events, people, or places, how you have chosen to represent a person, place, or thing, to name a phenomenon, or to use possible words with a positive or negative connotation. NOTE :   If you detect bias in prior research, it must be acknowledged and you should explain what measures were taken to avoid perpetuating that bias. For example, if a previous study only used boys to examine how music education supports effective math skills, describe how your research expands the study to include girls.
• Fluency in a language -- if your research focuses , for example, on measuring the perceived value of after-school tutoring among Mexican-American ESL [English as a Second Language] students and you are not fluent in Spanish, you are limited in being able to read and interpret Spanish language research studies on the topic or to speak with these students in their primary language. This deficiency should be acknowledged.

Aguinis, Hermam and Jeffrey R. Edwards. “Methodological Wishes for the Next Decade and How to Make Wishes Come True.” Journal of Management Studies 51 (January 2014): 143-174; Brutus, Stéphane et al. "Self-Reported Limitations and Future Directions in Scholarly Reports: Analysis and Recommendations." Journal of Management 39 (January 2013): 48-75; Senunyeme, Emmanuel K. Business Research Methods. Powerpoint Presentation. Regent University of Science and Technology; ter Riet, Gerben et al. “All That Glitters Isn't Gold: A Survey on Acknowledgment of Limitations in Biomedical Studies.” PLOS One 8 (November 2013): 1-6.

Structure and Writing Style

Information about the limitations of your study are generally placed either at the beginning of the discussion section of your paper so the reader knows and understands the limitations before reading the rest of your analysis of the findings, or, the limitations are outlined at the conclusion of the discussion section as an acknowledgement of the need for further study. Statements about a study's limitations should not be buried in the body [middle] of the discussion section unless a limitation is specific to something covered in that part of the paper. If this is the case, though, the limitation should be reiterated at the conclusion of the section.

If you determine that your study is seriously flawed due to important limitations , such as, an inability to acquire critical data, consider reframing it as an exploratory study intended to lay the groundwork for a more complete research study in the future. Be sure, though, to specifically explain the ways that these flaws can be successfully overcome in a new study.

But, do not use this as an excuse for not developing a thorough research paper! Review the tab in this guide for developing a research topic . If serious limitations exist, it generally indicates a likelihood that your research problem is too narrowly defined or that the issue or event under study is too recent and, thus, very little research has been written about it. If serious limitations do emerge, consult with your professor about possible ways to overcome them or how to revise your study.

When discussing the limitations of your research, be sure to:

• Describe each limitation in detailed but concise terms;
• Explain why each limitation exists;
• Provide the reasons why each limitation could not be overcome using the method(s) chosen to acquire or gather the data [cite to other studies that had similar problems when possible];
• Assess the impact of each limitation in relation to the overall findings and conclusions of your study; and,
• If appropriate, describe how these limitations could point to the need for further research.

Remember that the method you chose may be the source of a significant limitation that has emerged during your interpretation of the results [for example, you didn't interview a group of people that you later wish you had]. If this is the case, don't panic. Acknowledge it, and explain how applying a different or more robust methodology might address the research problem more effectively in a future study. A underlying goal of scholarly research is not only to show what works, but to demonstrate what doesn't work or what needs further clarification.

Aguinis, Hermam and Jeffrey R. Edwards. “Methodological Wishes for the Next Decade and How to Make Wishes Come True.” Journal of Management Studies 51 (January 2014): 143-174; Brutus, Stéphane et al. "Self-Reported Limitations and Future Directions in Scholarly Reports: Analysis and Recommendations." Journal of Management 39 (January 2013): 48-75; Ioannidis, John P.A. "Limitations are not Properly Acknowledged in the Scientific Literature." Journal of Clinical Epidemiology 60 (2007): 324-329; Pasek, Josh. Writing the Empirical Social Science Research Paper: A Guide for the Perplexed. January 24, 2012. Academia.edu; Structure: How to Structure the Research Limitations Section of Your Dissertation. Dissertations and Theses: An Online Textbook. Laerd.com; What Is an Academic Paper? Institute for Writing Rhetoric. Dartmouth College; Writing the Experimental Report: Methods, Results, and Discussion. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.

Writing Tip

Don't Inflate the Importance of Your Findings!

After all the hard work and long hours devoted to writing your research paper, it is easy to get carried away with attributing unwarranted importance to what you’ve done. We all want our academic work to be viewed as excellent and worthy of a good grade, but it is important that you understand and openly acknowledge the limitations of your study. Inflating the importance of your study's findings could be perceived by your readers as an attempt hide its flaws or encourage a biased interpretation of the results. A small measure of humility goes a long way!

Another Writing Tip

Negative Results are Not a Limitation!

Negative evidence refers to findings that unexpectedly challenge rather than support your hypothesis. If you didn't get the results you anticipated, it may mean your hypothesis was incorrect and needs to be reformulated. Or, perhaps you have stumbled onto something unexpected that warrants further study. Moreover, the absence of an effect may be very telling in many situations, particularly in experimental research designs. In any case, your results may very well be of importance to others even though they did not support your hypothesis. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that results contrary to what you expected is a limitation to your study. If you carried out the research well, they are simply your results and only require additional interpretation.

Lewis, George H. and Jonathan F. Lewis. “The Dog in the Night-Time: Negative Evidence in Social Research.” The British Journal of Sociology 31 (December 1980): 544-558.

Yet Another Writing Tip

Sample Size Limitations in Qualitative Research

Sample sizes are typically smaller in qualitative research because, as the study goes on, acquiring more data does not necessarily lead to more information. This is because one occurrence of a piece of data, or a code, is all that is necessary to ensure that it becomes part of the analysis framework. However, it remains true that sample sizes that are too small cannot adequately support claims of having achieved valid conclusions and sample sizes that are too large do not permit the deep, naturalistic, and inductive analysis that defines qualitative inquiry. Determining adequate sample size in qualitative research is ultimately a matter of judgment and experience in evaluating the quality of the information collected against the uses to which it will be applied and the particular research method and purposeful sampling strategy employed. If the sample size is found to be a limitation, it may reflect your judgment about the methodological technique chosen [e.g., single life history study versus focus group interviews] rather than the number of respondents used.

Boddy, Clive Roland. "Sample Size for Qualitative Research." Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal 19 (2016): 426-432; Huberman, A. Michael and Matthew B. Miles. "Data Management and Analysis Methods." In Handbook of Qualitative Research . Norman K. Denzin and Yvonna S. Lincoln, eds. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 1994), pp. 428-444; Blaikie, Norman. "Confounding Issues Related to Determining Sample Size in Qualitative Research." International Journal of Social Research Methodology 21 (2018): 635-641; Oppong, Steward Harrison. "The Problem of Sampling in qualitative Research." Asian Journal of Management Sciences and Education 2 (2013): 202-210.

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Exploring Scope and Delimitation in Academic Research

Academic research is a meticulous process that requires precise planning and clear boundaries. Two pivotal components in this process are the scope and delimitations of the study. The definitions and establishment of these parameters are instrumental in ensuring that the research is effective, manageable, and yields relevant results.

The "scope" of a research project refers to the areas that the study will cover. It is the breadth and depth of the investigation. It defines the subject matter, the geographical location, the time frame, and the issues that the study will explore. Essentially, the scope delineates what the researcher aims to cover in the study.

On the other hand, "delimitations" are the boundaries or limitations set by the researcher. They define what the study will not include. Delimitations could involve the choice of research methodology , the selection of respondents, the duration of the study, and more. They help in confining the study to a manageable size while excluding peripheral elements.

Understanding and correctly implementing scope and delimitations are vital to ensuring your research is well-defined and focused, facilitating higher accuracy and relevancy in your findings.

Importance of scope in research

"Scope" in research refers to the comprehensive extent of study—it outlines the parameters of what will be explored and addressed. It defines the topic of the research , the geographical region under study, the timeframe considered, and the issues that the study will address. The scope of a research project is vital because it determines the depth and breadth of your investigation.

Defining the scope of research is a fundamental step in the research process for several reasons. First, it provides a roadmap for the study, giving the researcher clear guidelines about what to include and exclude. Without a well-defined scope, research can become unmanageably vast or lose its focus.

Second, the scope ensures the research's relevance and applicability. It helps the researcher maintain a tight focus on the study's central question , ensuring that all aspects of the research contribute to answering this question. This focus aids in avoiding irrelevant diversions that could dilute the final conclusions.

Finally, a well-defined scope can help ensure the efficient use of resources. Research involves considerable time, effort, and often financial resources. By providing clear boundaries, the scope ensures these resources are utilized effectively without wasted effort on peripheral issues.

Suppose a research study is looking at the impacts of social media usage on mental health. If the scope is too broad—like examining all social media platforms' effects on all demographic groups worldwide—then the research can quickly become unwieldy and hard to manage. It would involve vast amounts of data, requiring considerable time, resources, and computational power to analyze effectively.

However, if the scope is narrowed down—such as investigating the impact of Instagram usage on the mental health of teenagers in a specific city over the past five years—the research becomes far more manageable. This specific focus allows for a more in-depth analysis and likely will provide more meaningful, actionable results. This example illustrates the importance of appropriately defining the scope of research for its successful execution.

Determining the scope of your research

Setting the scope of your research project is a critical and delicate task. Below are steps, tips, and common mistakes to avoid when determining the scope of your research:

Steps to define the scope

• Identify Your Topic: The first step involves identifying and understanding your research topic. This knowledge will serve as a basis for determining the breadth and depth of your study.
• Define Your Research Questions: The research questions are the heart of your study. They will help you determine the specific areas your research should cover.
• Establish Boundaries: Clearly establish the geographical, temporal, and topical boundaries of your research. These boundaries will guide the range of your study.
• Choose Your Methodology: Decide on the research methods you will use as these will directly impact the scope of your study.

Tips for a manageable scope

• Stay Focused: Stay concentrated on your research questions. Do not stray into areas that aren't directly relevant.
• Be Realistic: Consider the resources (time, money, manpower) available. Ensure your scope is feasible given these resources.
• Seek Guidance: Consult with your academic advisor or peers for feedback on your proposed scope.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Overly Broad Scope: Avoid setting an overly broad scope which could result in an unmanageable and unfocused study.
• Too Narrow Scope: Conversely, a scope that is too narrow may miss important aspects of the research topic.
• Ignoring Resources: Not taking into account available resources when setting the scope can lead to a project that is impossible to complete.

Defining the scope of your research is a delicate balance, requiring careful consideration of your research questions, resources, and the depth and breadth of investigation needed to answer these questions effectively.

Importance of delimitations in research

In the context of academic research, "delimitations" refers to the choices made by the researcher which define the boundaries of the study. These are the variables that lead the researcher to narrow the scope of the study from its potential vastness to a manageable size.

Delimitations might include the geographic area where the study is confined, the participants involved in the study, the methodology used, the time period considered, or the specific incidents or aspects the study will focus on. Essentially, delimitations are the self-imposed limitations on the scope of the study.

Defining the delimitations of a research project is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, they establish the context or setting in which the study occurs. This, in turn, allows for the work to be reproduced in a similar context for verification or refutation in future studies.

Secondly, delimitations provide a way to narrow the scope of the research to a manageable size, thus avoiding the pitfall of an overly ambitious project. They help researchers to stay focused on the main research questions and prevent diversion into irrelevant aspects.

Finally, clearly defined delimitations enhance the credibility of the research. They offer transparency about the research design and methodology, which adds to the validity of the results.

For instance, in a research study examining the impact of technology on student achievement in a certain district, examples of delimitations might include focusing only on public schools, considering only high school students, and confining the study to a particular school year. These choices help to focus the research and ensure its manageability. Therefore, delimitations play a pivotal role in structuring and guiding an effective and efficient research study.

Setting delimitations for your research

Establishing appropriate delimitations for your research project is an important part of research design. Here are some steps, guidelines, and common mistakes to consider when setting your research delimitations:

Steps to establish delimitations

• Identify the boundaries: Begin by deciding the geographical region, time period, and subject matter your research will cover.
• Determine Your Research Population: Identify the specific population your study will focus on. This could be based on age, profession, geographical location, etc.
• Choose Your Research Methods: Decide the specific methods you will use to collect and analyze data, as these decisions will also set limitations on your study.

Guidelines for choosing delimitations

• Align with Your Research Objectives: The delimitations should be in line with your research questions and objectives. They should help focus your study without detracting from its goals.
• Be Practical: Consider the resources available, including time, funds, and access to data. Your delimitations should be feasible given these constraints.
• Seek Input: Consult with your research advisor or peers. Their feedback can help ensure your delimitations are appropriate and well thought out.

Common errors to avoid:

• Unrealistic Delimitations: Be wary of setting delimitations that are too stringent or ambitious to be feasible given your resources and timeframe.
• Undefined Delimitations: Avoid leaving your delimitations vague or undefined. This can lead to scope creep, where your project expands beyond its initial plan, making it unmanageable.
• Ignoring Delimitations: Once set, stick to your delimitations. Deviating from them can lead to a loss of focus and can compromise the integrity of your results.

Setting delimitations is a crucial step in research planning. Properly defined delimitations can make your research project more manageable, maintain your focus, and ensure the effective use of your resources.

The interplay between scope and delimitations

The relationship between scope and delimitations in academic research is a dynamic and interdependent one. Each aspect serves to shape and refine the other, ultimately leading to a focused, feasible, and effective research design.

The scope of a research project describes the breadth and depth of the investigation—what it aims to cover and how far it intends to delve into the subject matter. The delimitations, on the other hand, identify the boundaries and constraints of the study—what it will not cover.

As such, the scope and delimitations of a research study are intimately connected. When the scope of a study is broad, the delimitations must be carefully considered to ensure the project remains manageable and focused. Conversely, when the scope is narrow, the delimitations might be less constraining, but they still play a critical role in defining the specificity of the research.

Balancing the scope and delimitations is crucial for an efficient research design. Too broad a scope without carefully defined delimitations can lead to a study that is unwieldy and lacks depth. On the other hand, a very narrow scope with overly rigid delimitations might result in a study that overlooks important aspects of the research topic.

Thus, researchers must strive to maintain a balance—establishing a scope that is wide enough to fully explore the research topic, but also setting appropriate delimitations to ensure the study remains feasible and focused. In doing so, the research will be well-structured and yield meaningful, relevant findings.

Role of scope and delimitations in research validity

Scope and delimitations are fundamental aspects of research design that directly influence the validity, reliability, and replicability of a study.

Research validity refers to the degree to which a study accurately reflects or measures the concept that the researcher intends to investigate. A well-defined scope is critical to research validity because it clearly delineates what the study will cover. This clear definition ensures that the research focuses on relevant aspects of the topic and that the findings accurately reflect the concept under investigation.

Similarly, carefully thought-out delimitations contribute to research validity by identifying what the study will not cover. This clarity helps to prevent the study from straying into irrelevant areas, ensuring that the research stays focused and relevant.

In addition to contributing to research validity, scope and delimitations also influence the reliability and replicability of a study. Reliability refers to the consistency of a study's results, while replicability refers to the ability of other researchers to repeat the study and obtain similar results.

A clearly defined scope makes a study more reliable by providing a detailed outline of the areas covered by the research. This clarity makes it more likely that the study will produce consistent results. Moreover, clearly defined delimitations enhance the replicability of a study by providing explicit boundaries for the research, which makes it easier for other researchers to repeat the study in a similar context.

In summary, a well-defined scope and carefully thought-out delimitations contribute significantly to the validity, reliability, and replicability of academic research. They ensure that the research is focused, that the findings are relevant and accurate, and that the study can be reliably repeated by other researchers.

Examples of scope and delimitation in well-known research

• The Milgram Experiment: Stanley Milgram's famous psychology experiment sought to understand obedience to authority figures. The scope of this study was clearly defined—it focused on how far individuals would go in obeying an instruction if it involved harming another person. However, delimitations were set to ensure manageability. Participants were delimited to male individuals, and the experiment was confined to a controlled laboratory setting. These delimitations allowed Milgram to manage the research effectively while maintaining the depth of his study on human behavior.
• The Framingham Heart Study: This ongoing cardiovascular study began in 1948 and is aimed at identifying common factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease. The scope of the research is broad, covering many aspects of lifestyle, medical history, and physical characteristics. However, the study set clear delimitations: it initially only involved adult residents of Framingham, Massachusetts. This geographical delimitation made this broad-scope study manageable and eventually yielded influential results that shaped our understanding of heart disease.
• The Marshmallow Test: This well-known study by Walter Mischel explored delayed gratification in children. The scope was clearly defined: the study aimed to understand the ability of children to delay gratification and how it related to future success. The delimitations of the study included the age of the participants (preschool children), the setting (a controlled experiment with a treat), and the measure of future success (academic achievement, ability to cope with stress, etc.). These delimitations helped keep the study focused and manageable.

In all these examples, the researchers set a clear scope to outline the focus of their studies and used delimitations to restrict the boundaries. This balance between scope and delimitation was key in conducting successful and influential research.

In academic research, defining the scope and delimitations is a pivotal step in designing a robust and effective study. The scope outlines the breadth and depth of the investigation, offering a clear direction for the research. Meanwhile, delimitations set the boundaries of the study, ensuring that the research remains focused and manageable. Together, they play a crucial role in enhancing the validity, reliability, and replicability of a study.

Understanding the interplay between scope and delimitations is key to conducting efficient research. A well-defined scope paired with thoughtfully set delimitations contribute to a study's feasibility and its potential to yield meaningful and applicable results. Mistakes in setting the scope and delimitations can lead to unwieldy, unfocused research or a study that overlooks important aspects of a research question.

Reviewing famous studies, like the Milgram Experiment, the Framingham Heart Study, and the Marshmallow Test, we observe how a balanced approach to setting scope and delimitations can result in influential and valuable findings. Therefore, researchers should give careful thought to defining the scope and delimitations of their studies, keeping in mind their research questions, available resources, and the need for balance between breadth and focus. By doing so, they pave the way for successful and impactful research outcomes.

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How to Write Limitations of the Study (with examples)

This blog emphasizes the importance of recognizing and effectively writing about limitations in research. It discusses the types of limitations, their significance, and provides guidelines for writing about them, highlighting their role in advancing scholarly research.

Updated on August 24, 2023

No matter how well thought out, every research endeavor encounters challenges. There is simply no way to predict all possible variances throughout the process.

These uncharted boundaries and abrupt constraints are known as limitations in research . Identifying and acknowledging limitations is crucial for conducting rigorous studies. Limitations provide context and shed light on gaps in the prevailing inquiry and literature.

This article explores the importance of recognizing limitations and discusses how to write them effectively. By interpreting limitations in research and considering prevalent examples, we aim to reframe the perception from shameful mistakes to respectable revelations.

What are limitations in research?

In the clearest terms, research limitations are the practical or theoretical shortcomings of a study that are often outside of the researcher’s control . While these weaknesses limit the generalizability of a study’s conclusions, they also present a foundation for future research.

Sometimes limitations arise from tangible circumstances like time and funding constraints, or equipment and participant availability. Other times the rationale is more obscure and buried within the research design. Common types of limitations and their ramifications include:

• Theoretical: limits the scope, depth, or applicability of a study.
• Methodological: limits the quality, quantity, or diversity of the data.
• Empirical: limits the representativeness, validity, or reliability of the data.
• Analytical: limits the accuracy, completeness, or significance of the findings.
• Ethical: limits the access, consent, or confidentiality of the data.

Regardless of how, when, or why they arise, limitations are a natural part of the research process and should never be ignored . Like all other aspects, they are vital in their own purpose.

Why is identifying limitations important?

Whether to seek acceptance or avoid struggle, humans often instinctively hide flaws and mistakes. Merging this thought process into research by attempting to hide limitations, however, is a bad idea. It has the potential to negate the validity of outcomes and damage the reputation of scholars.

By identifying and addressing limitations throughout a project, researchers strengthen their arguments and curtail the chance of peer censure based on overlooked mistakes. Pointing out these flaws shows an understanding of variable limits and a scrupulous research process.

Showing awareness of and taking responsibility for a project’s boundaries and challenges validates the integrity and transparency of a researcher. It further demonstrates the researchers understand the applicable literature and have thoroughly evaluated their chosen research methods.

Presenting limitations also benefits the readers by providing context for research findings. It guides them to interpret the project’s conclusions only within the scope of very specific conditions. By allowing for an appropriate generalization of the findings that is accurately confined by research boundaries and is not too broad, limitations boost a study’s credibility .

Limitations are true assets to the research process. They highlight opportunities for future research. When researchers identify the limitations of their particular approach to a study question, they enable precise transferability and improve chances for reproducibility. 

Simply stating a project’s limitations is not adequate for spurring further research, though. To spark the interest of other researchers, these acknowledgements must come with thorough explanations regarding how the limitations affected the current study and how they can potentially be overcome with amended methods.

How to write limitations

Typically, the information about a study’s limitations is situated either at the beginning of the discussion section to provide context for readers or at the conclusion of the discussion section to acknowledge the need for further research. However, it varies depending upon the target journal or publication guidelines. 

Don’t hide your limitations

It is also important to not bury a limitation in the body of the paper unless it has a unique connection to a topic in that section. If so, it needs to be reiterated with the other limitations or at the conclusion of the discussion section. Wherever it is included in the manuscript, ensure that the limitations section is prominently positioned and clearly introduced.

While maintaining transparency by disclosing limitations means taking a comprehensive approach, it is not necessary to discuss everything that could have potentially gone wrong during the research study. If there is no commitment to investigation in the introduction, it is unnecessary to consider the issue a limitation to the research. Wholly consider the term ‘limitations’ and ask, “Did it significantly change or limit the possible outcomes?” Then, qualify the occurrence as either a limitation to include in the current manuscript or as an idea to note for other projects. 

Writing limitations

Once the limitations are concretely identified and it is decided where they will be included in the paper, researchers are ready for the writing task. Including only what is pertinent, keeping explanations detailed but concise, and employing the following guidelines is key for crafting valuable limitations:

1) Identify and describe the limitations : Clearly introduce the limitation by classifying its form and specifying its origin. For example:

• An unintentional bias encountered during data collection
• An intentional use of unplanned post-hoc data analysis

2) Explain the implications : Describe how the limitation potentially influences the study’s findings and how the validity and generalizability are subsequently impacted. Provide examples and evidence to support claims of the limitations’ effects without making excuses or exaggerating their impact. Overall, be transparent and objective in presenting the limitations, without undermining the significance of the research. 

3) Provide alternative approaches for future studies : Offer specific suggestions for potential improvements or avenues for further investigation. Demonstrate a proactive approach by encouraging future research that addresses the identified gaps and, therefore, expands the knowledge base.

Whether presenting limitations as an individual section within the manuscript or as a subtopic in the discussion area, authors should use clear headings and straightforward language to facilitate readability. There is no need to complicate limitations with jargon, computations, or complex datasets.

Examples of common limitations

Limitations are generally grouped into two categories , methodology and research process .

Methodology limitations

Methodology may include limitations due to:

• Sample size
• Lack of available or reliable data
• Lack of prior research studies on the topic
• Measure used to collect the data
• Self-reported data

The researcher is addressing how the large sample size requires a reassessment of the measures used to collect and analyze the data.

Research process limitations

Limitations during the research process may arise from:

• Access to information
• Longitudinal effects
• Cultural and other biases
• Language fluency
• Time constraints

The author is pointing out that the model’s estimates are based on potentially biased observational studies.

Final thoughts

Successfully proving theories and touting great achievements are only two very narrow goals of scholarly research. The true passion and greatest efforts of researchers comes more in the form of confronting assumptions and exploring the obscure.

In many ways, recognizing and sharing the limitations of a research study both allows for and encourages this type of discovery that continuously pushes research forward. By using limitations to provide a transparent account of the project's boundaries and to contextualize the findings, researchers pave the way for even more robust and impactful research in the future.

Charla Viera, MS

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Home » Scope of the Research – Writing Guide and Examples

Scope of the Research – Writing Guide and Examples

Table of Contents

Scope of the Research

Scope of research refers to the range of topics, areas, and subjects that a research project intends to cover. It is the extent and limitations of the study, defining what is included and excluded in the research.

The scope of a research project depends on various factors, such as the research questions , objectives , methodology, and available resources. It is essential to define the scope of the research project clearly to avoid confusion and ensure that the study addresses the intended research questions.

How to Write Scope of the Research

Writing the scope of the research involves identifying the specific boundaries and limitations of the study. Here are some steps you can follow to write a clear and concise scope of the research:

• Identify the research question: Start by identifying the specific question that you want to answer through your research . This will help you focus your research and define the scope more clearly.
• Define the objectives: Once you have identified the research question, define the objectives of your study. What specific goals do you want to achieve through your research?
• Determine the population and sample: Identify the population or group of people that you will be studying, as well as the sample size and selection criteria. This will help you narrow down the scope of your research and ensure that your findings are applicable to the intended audience.
• Identify the variables: Determine the variables that will be measured or analyzed in your research. This could include demographic variables, independent variables , dependent variables , or any other relevant factors.
• Define the timeframe: Determine the timeframe for your study, including the start and end date, as well as any specific time intervals that will be measured.
• Determine the geographical scope: If your research is location-specific, define the geographical scope of your study. This could include specific regions, cities, or neighborhoods that you will be focusing on.
• Outline the limitations: Finally, outline any limitations or constraints of your research, such as time, resources, or access to data. This will help readers understand the scope and applicability of your research findings.

Examples of the Scope of the Research

Some Examples of the Scope of the Research are as follows:

Title : “Investigating the impact of artificial intelligence on job automation in the IT industry”

Scope of Research:

This study aims to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on job automation in the IT industry. The research will involve a qualitative analysis of job postings, identifying tasks that can be automated using AI. The study will also assess the potential implications of job automation on the workforce, including job displacement, job creation, and changes in job requirements.

Title : “Developing a machine learning model for predicting cyberattacks on corporate networks”

This study will develop a machine learning model for predicting cyberattacks on corporate networks. The research will involve collecting and analyzing network traffic data, identifying patterns and trends that are indicative of cyberattacks. The study aims to build an accurate and reliable predictive model that can help organizations identify and prevent cyberattacks before they occur.

Title: “Assessing the usability of a mobile app for managing personal finances”

This study will assess the usability of a mobile app for managing personal finances. The research will involve conducting a usability test with a group of participants, evaluating the app’s ease of use, efficiency, and user satisfaction. The study aims to identify areas of the app that need improvement, and to provide recommendations for enhancing its usability and user experience.

Title : “Exploring the effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction among college students”

This study aims to investigate the impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing stress levels among college students. The research will involve a randomized controlled trial with two groups: a treatment group that receives mindfulness meditation training and a control group that receives no intervention. The study will examine changes in stress levels, as measured by self-report questionnaires, before and after the intervention.

Title: “Investigating the impact of social media on body image dissatisfaction among young adults”

This study will explore the relationship between social media use and body image dissatisfaction among young adults. The research will involve a cross-sectional survey of participants aged 18-25, assessing their social media use, body image perceptions, and self-esteem. The study aims to identify any correlations between social media use and body image dissatisfaction, and to determine if certain social media platforms or types of content are particularly harmful.

When to Write Scope of the Research

Here is a guide on When to Write the Scope of the Research:

• Before starting your research project, it’s important to clearly define the scope of your study. This will help you stay focused on your research question and avoid getting sidetracked by irrelevant information.
• The scope of the research should be determined by the research question or problem statement. It should outline what you intend to investigate and what you will not be investigating.
• The scope should also take into consideration any limitations of the study, such as time, resources, or access to data. This will help you realistically plan and execute your research.
• Writing the scope of the research early in the research process can also help you refine your research question and identify any gaps in the existing literature that your study can address.
• It’s important to revisit the scope of the research throughout the research process to ensure that you stay on track and make any necessary adjustments.
• The scope of the research should be clearly communicated in the research proposal or study protocol to ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the research objectives and limitations.
• The scope of the research should also be reflected in the research design, methods, and analysis plan. This will ensure that the research is conducted in a systematic and rigorous manner that is aligned with the research objectives.
• The scope of the research should be written in a clear and concise manner, using language that is accessible to all stakeholders, including those who may not be familiar with the research topic or methodology.
• When writing the scope of the research, it’s important to be transparent about any assumptions or biases that may influence the research findings. This will help ensure that the research is conducted in an ethical and responsible manner.
• The scope of the research should be reviewed and approved by the research supervisor, committee members, or other relevant stakeholders. This will ensure that the research is feasible, relevant, and contributes to the field of study.
• Finally, the scope of the research should be clearly stated in the research report or dissertation to provide context for the research findings and conclusions. This will help readers understand the significance of the research and its contribution to the field of study.

Purpose of Scope of the Research

Purposes of Scope of the Research are as follows:

• Defines the boundaries and extent of the study.
• Determines the specific objectives and research questions to be addressed.
• Provides direction and focus for the research.
• Helps to identify the relevant theories, concepts, and variables to be studied.
• Enables the researcher to select the appropriate research methodology and techniques.
• Allows for the allocation of resources (time, money, personnel) to the research.
• Establishes the criteria for the selection of the sample and data collection methods.
• Facilitates the interpretation and generalization of the results.
• Ensures the ethical considerations and constraints are addressed.
• Provides a framework for the presentation and dissemination of the research findings.

Advantages of Scope of the Research

Here are some advantages of having a well-defined scope of research:

• Provides clarity and focus: Defining the scope of research helps to provide clarity and focus to the study. This ensures that the research stays on track and does not deviate from its intended purpose.
• Helps to manage resources: Knowing the scope of research allows researchers to allocate resources effectively. This includes managing time, budget, and personnel required to conduct the study.
• Improves the quality of research: A well-defined scope of research helps to ensure that the study is designed to achieve specific objectives. This helps to improve the quality of the research by reducing the likelihood of errors or bias.
• Facilitates communication: A clear scope of research enables researchers to communicate the goals and objectives of the study to stakeholders, such as funding agencies or participants. This facilitates understanding and enhances cooperation.
• Enables replication : A well-defined scope of research makes it easier to replicate the study in the future. This allows other researchers to validate the findings and build upon them, leading to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
• Increases the relevance of research: Defining the scope of research helps to ensure that the study is relevant to the problem or issue being investigated. This increases the likelihood that the findings will be useful and applicable to real-world situations.
• Reduces the risk of scope creep : Scope creep occurs when the research expands beyond the original scope, leading to an increase in the time, cost, and resources required to complete the study. A clear definition of the scope of research helps to reduce the risk of scope creep by establishing boundaries and limitations.
• Enhances the credibility of research: A well-defined scope of research helps to enhance the credibility of the study by ensuring that it is designed to achieve specific objectives and answer specific research questions. This makes it easier for others to assess the validity and reliability of the study.
• Provides a framework for decision-making : A clear scope of research provides a framework for decision-making throughout the research process. This includes decisions related to data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

Scope of the Research Vs Scope of the Project

About the author.

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Scope and Delimitation

Ai generator.

Scope and delimitation are crucial components of a research project, outlining its boundaries and specifying what is included and excluded. The scope details the extent of the study, including its aims, geographical area, time frame, and subjects involved. Delimitations, on the other hand, define the parameters set by the researcher, such as limitations on the scope, methodology, or demographic constraints, helping to focus the research effectively.

What Is Scope and Delimitation?

Scope: The scope of a research project encompasses its objectives, geographical coverage, time period, and subjects or variables studied. It outlines the breadth and depth of the investigation, detailing what the researcher aims to explore or analyze.

Delimitation: Delimitation refers to the self-imposed boundaries set by the researcher within a study. These can include the choice of methodology, theoretical framework, or specific aspects and variables excluded from the research. Delimitations help narrow the focus, making the study more manageable and specific.

Types of Scope and Delimitation

Types of Scope:

• Content Scope: Refers to the range of topics and subtopics that the research will cover.
• Geographical Scope: Defines the physical or virtual locations where the research is conducted.
• Temporal Scope: Specifies the time period during which the data is collected or the events are analyzed.
• Population Scope: Determines the groups, communities, or demographics from which data will be collected.

Types of Delimitation:

• Methodological Delimitation: Involves selecting specific methods or procedures that limit the way data is collected or analyzed.
• Theoretical Delimitation: Focuses the study on a particular theory or set of assumptions, excluding others.
• Data Delimitation: Restricts the range or type of data collected, such as focusing only on qualitative or quantitative data.
• Objective Delimitation: Narrows the research aims and objectives, focusing on specific questions or hypotheses.

Significance of Scope and Delimitation

The significance of scope and delimitation in research is crucial for several reasons:

• Clarity and Focus : Defining the scope helps to clearly establish what the research will cover, ensuring that the study remains focused on relevant questions and objectives. Delimitations further refine this focus by setting clear boundaries, which prevents the research from becoming too broad or vague.
• Feasibility : By setting a realistic scope and appropriate delimitations, researchers can ensure that the project is manageable and can be completed within the allotted time and resources. This makes the study more practical and achievable.
• Validity and Precision : Limiting the scope and delimitations helps in targeting the research more precisely to the area of interest. This enhances the validity of the results as the study avoids extraneous variables and focuses on the key factors.
• Expectation Setting : Both scope and delimitations help in setting the right expectations for the audience or stakeholders. They provide a clear understanding of what the study intends to explore and what it will not address, making the findings more transparent and interpretable.
• Resource Optimization : By clearly defining what is included and excluded in the study, researchers can better allocate resources such as time, manpower, and finances. This optimization prevents wastage of resources on irrelevant or peripheral areas.

Importance of Writing the Scope and Delimitations

Writing the scope and delimitations clearly in a research study is fundamentally important for several key reasons:

• Establishes what the study will cover and what it will not.
• Helps in setting clear objectives and goals for the research.
• Prevents unnecessary expansion of the study, maintaining focus.
• Demonstrates the researcher’s awareness of the study’s limitations.
• Increases transparency, allowing readers to understand the study’s context.
• Acknowledges potential weaknesses, making the research more credible.
• Helps in efficient allocation of time, money, and effort.
• Prevents wastage of resources on areas outside the study’s focus.
• Allows for better planning and execution of research activities.
• Guides the selection of appropriate data sources and methods.
• Ensures data collection remains relevant to the research questions.
• Reduces the risk of collecting irrelevant or excessive data.
• Provides a clear framework for analyzing the collected data.
• Helps in identifying relevant patterns and trends within the defined boundaries.
• Simplifies the interpretation of results, making conclusions more accurate.
• Ensures the research remains aligned with its intended purpose.
• Enhances the applicability of the study’s findings to real-world situations.
• Makes it easier for readers to relate to the study’s outcomes.
• Provides clear guidelines for future researchers to replicate the study.
• Ensures consistency and reliability in research methodology.
• Encourages further exploration within the defined scope.

Difference Between Delimitations and Limitations

Scope and delimitation examples in research.

Here are examples of how scope and delimitation can be defined in different types of research projects:

• Scope : The study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of a new diabetes management program within urban community clinics over a period of one year. It includes adult patients aged 30-60 who are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
• Delimitation : The study excludes patients who have been managing diabetes for more than a year or have other chronic conditions, focusing solely on newly diagnosed individuals to isolate the effects of the management program.
• Scope : This research examines the impact of deforestation on river ecosystems in the Amazon Basin, specifically looking at water quality parameters and biodiversity indexes over five years.
• Delimitation : The study limits its analysis to tributaries directly affected by deforestation, excluding regions where industrial pollution might skew the natural impact of tree loss.
• Scope : The project aims to assess the outcomes of a new digital learning initiative on middle school students’ performance in public schools across three states during the current academic year.
• Delimitation : It focuses on public schools that have implemented the program in its entirety, excluding private and charter schools to maintain consistency in educational environment and resources.
• Scope : The research is designed to gather consumer feedback on a new line of ergonomic office chairs, targeting working professionals between the ages of 25 and 45 in the United States.
• Delimitation : The study is confined to online surveys and virtual focus groups, deliberately excluding in-person feedback sessions to expedite data collection and reduce costs.
• Scope : This study explores the influence of the Harlem Renaissance on modern American literature, focusing on the works published between 1920 and 1935 that directly reference or are inspired by this cultural movement.
• Delimitation : The research limits its scope to literary works in English, excluding non-English works and other forms of art like painting or music to concentrate on literary influences.

Scope and Delimitation Examples in Quantitative Research

In quantitative research, where precise measurement and statistical analysis are paramount, clearly defined scope and delimitations are crucial. Here are examples to illustrate how scope and delimitations can be structured in such studies:

• Scope : The study is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new cholesterol-lowering drug among adults aged 40-65 over a six-month period, using randomized controlled trials across ten different sites in Europe.
• Delimitation : The trial excludes individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease to prevent confounding variables that could affect the drug’s perceived effectiveness or safety profile.
• Scope : This research quantitatively assesses the economic impact of introducing a minimum wage policy in the retail sector within New York City, measuring changes in employment rates and business revenues over two years.
• Delimitation : The study confines its analysis to the retail sector, excluding other sectors like hospitality or healthcare to isolate the specific effects of the wage increase on a similar type of business.
• Scope : The study focuses on comparing standardized test scores between students in charter schools and public schools within the Midwest region of the United States, analyzing data collected over the current academic year.
• Delimitation : It only includes schools that have fully implemented Common Core standards, ensuring that curriculum alignment is maintained across the sample to enhance comparability.
• Scope : This research measures customer satisfaction levels regarding network coverage, customer service, and pricing among users aged 18-55 across the United States.
• Delimitation : The survey targets only current subscribers who have used the service for at least six months, excluding new users to focus on experienced perceptions and reduce the variability brought by initial service impressions.
• Scope : The quantitative study aims to examine the relationship between high-protein diets and heart health in individuals over 50 years old, tracking heart disease markers and overall health outcomes for five years.
• Delimitation : Participants with a history of dietary restrictions or chronic illnesses other than heart-related conditions are excluded to focus solely on the impact of diet on heart health without external medical factors.

Scope and Delimitation Examples about Business

Here are several examples of how scope and delimitation can be defined in business-related research, each tailored to different areas of business studies:

• Scope : This study aims to assess the feasibility and potential profitability of introducing an eco-friendly clothing line in the European market. It analyzes market trends, consumer preferences, and competition within the next two years.
• Delimitation : The research is limited to five major European countries (Germany, France, UK, Spain, and Italy) and excludes other global markets to specifically understand European consumer behavior and regulatory impacts on sustainability.
• Scope : The project focuses on evaluating the impact of remote working on employee productivity within a multinational corporation, utilizing data from productivity software and employee surveys collected over the past year.
• Delimitation : It only considers employees who have been with the company for at least two years to exclude the learning curve effects in new hires and to focus on data reflecting more established work patterns.
• Scope : This research quantitatively examines the factors that influence customer loyalty and retention rates in the online retail sector, focusing on customers aged 25-45.
• Delimitation : The study limits its analysis to customers who have made at least three purchases in the past year to focus on repeat customers rather than new or occasional shoppers.
• Scope : The study aims to benchmark the financial performance of tech startups in Silicon Valley over the last five years, focusing on key metrics such as revenue growth, profit margins, and capital efficiency.
• Delimitation : Only startups that have received Series A funding or beyond are included, excluding early-stage startups without significant funding to ensure the analysis is centered on companies with comparable levels of investment.
• Scope : This study assesses the brand perception of a newly launched luxury watch brand among high-income consumers in North America, using online surveys and social media sentiment analysis collected over the six months following the launch.
• Delimitation : The research targets only high-income consumers (defined as those earning above $100,000 annually) to ensure the feedback and data are relevant to the brand’s target market.

Scope and Delimitation Example about Working Students

1. academic performance.

The Impact of Part-time Employment on Academic Performance Among University Students

This study aims to examine the relationship between part-time employment and academic performance among undergraduate students at public universities in California during the 2023-2024 academic year. It focuses on how working part-time affects students’ GPA, study habits, and overall time management. The study will utilize quantitative data from academic records and surveys to assess these impacts.

Delimitation

The study is limited to undergraduate students who are employed part-time, working between 10 to 30 hours per week. It excludes:

• Graduate students, to maintain focus on the undergraduate experience.
• Students working fewer than 10 hours or more than 30 hours per week, to analyze the impact within a specific range of part-time employment.
• Students from private universities, to ensure consistency in the educational environment and resources available at public universities.
• Non-traditional students (over the age of 25) and those with significant external responsibilities (e.g., caregiving), to minimize variability related to different life stages and commitments.

2. Mental Health and Well-being

The Impact of Part-time Employment on the Mental Health and Well-being of University Students

This study aims to explore the effects of part-time employment on the mental health and well-being of undergraduate students at urban universities in the United States during the 2023-2024 academic year. It focuses on assessing levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and overall life satisfaction among students who work part-time. Data will be collected through standardized mental health surveys and in-depth interviews.

The study is limited to undergraduate students who are employed part-time, working between 10 to 20 hours per week. It excludes:

• Graduate students, to focus specifically on the undergraduate experience.
• Students working fewer than 10 hours or more than 20 hours per week, to analyze the impact within a specific range of part-time employment.
• Students from rural or suburban universities, to ensure consistency in the urban university experience.
• Full-time employed students and those with significant external responsibilities (e.g., caregiving), to reduce variability related to different levels of work commitment and external stressors.

3. Financial Benefits

The Financial Benefits of Part-time Employment for University Students

This study aims to evaluate the financial benefits of part-time employment for undergraduate students at community colleges in Texas during the 2023-2024 academic year. It focuses on how working part-time impacts students’ financial independence, budgeting skills, and ability to cover educational expenses. Data will be collected through surveys and financial records analysis.

The study is limited to undergraduate students aged 18-25 who are employed part-time, working between 10 to 20 hours per week. It excludes:

• Students who are financially dependent on their parents, to assess the impact of part-time work on financial independence.
• Students from private or out-of-state institutions, to ensure consistency in educational costs and available resources at Texas community colleges.

4. Time Management Skills

The Impact of Part-time Employment on Time Management Skills Among University Students

This study aims to investigate how part-time employment influences the time management skills of undergraduate students at universities in New York City during the 2023-2024 academic year. It focuses on evaluating students’ ability to balance academic responsibilities, work commitments, and personal life. The study will utilize quantitative surveys and qualitative focus groups to gather data on students’ time management practices and challenges.

The study is limited to undergraduate students who are employed part-time, working between 15 to 25 hours per week. It excludes:

• Graduate students, to maintain a focus on the undergraduate experience.
• Students working fewer than 15 hours or more than 25 hours per week, to analyze the impact within a specific range of part-time employment.
• Students from universities outside New York City, to ensure consistency in the urban academic and work environment.
• Students who are not enrolled full-time, to ensure that all participants have similar academic workloads.
• Students with significant external responsibilities (e.g., caregiving), to reduce variability related to different levels of non-academic and non-work commitments.

5. Career Development

The Impact of Part-time Employment on Career Development Among University Students

This study aims to investigate how part-time employment during university affects the career development and job readiness of undergraduate students. The research focuses on senior students majoring in business at major universities in the United States, covering the academic years from 2020 to 2023. Data will be collected through surveys and interviews, assessing factors such as professional skills acquisition, networking opportunities, internships, and career aspirations.

The study is limited to senior undergraduate students who have worked part-time jobs related to their field of study for at least one year. It excludes:

• Graduate and first-year undergraduate students, to concentrate on those nearing graduation and entering the job market.
• Students working in unrelated fields, to specifically measure the impact of relevant work experience on career development.
• Students from universities outside the United States, as career development opportunities and job market conditions can vary significantly by country.
• Students who have not worked part-time or have worked less than one year, to focus on the effects of sustained part-time employment.

How to Write Scope and Delimitation

Writing the scope and delimitation of a research study involves clearly defining the boundaries and limitations of your research. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write scope and delimitation:

Writing the Scope

• Clearly state what your research aims to achieve.
• Example: “This study aims to investigate the impact of part-time employment on the academic performance of undergraduate students.”
• Describe the topics or variables that will be explored.
• Example: “The study focuses on the correlation between part-time work hours and students’ GPA, study habits, and time management skills.”
• State who will be included in the study (e.g., specific groups, demographics).
• Example: “The research targets undergraduate students at public universities in California.”
• Define the period during which the study will take place.
• Example: “The data will be collected during the 2023-2024 academic year.”
• Mention the location or context in which the study will be conducted.
• Example: “The study is conducted across public universities in California.”

Writing the Delimitation

• Specify what is not included in the study and why.
• Example: “The study excludes graduate students and students working more than 30 hours per week to focus on the undergraduate experience and moderate part-time work.”
• Explain why certain boundaries are set to ensure focus and manageability.
• Example: “The exclusion of graduate students helps maintain a focus on the unique challenges faced by undergraduates.”
• Identify which variables or aspects are not covered and the reasons for their exclusion.
• Example: “Variables such as extracurricular activities and social life are not included to concentrate on academic performance.”
• Mention any methodological limitations and their rationale.
• Example: “The study uses self-reported surveys, which may be subject to bias, but they provide direct insights into students’ perceptions.”

Example of Scope and Delimitation

Research Title The Impact of Part-time Employment on Academic Performance Among University Students Scope This study aims to examine the relationship between part-time employment and academic performance among undergraduate students at public universities in California during the 2023-2024 academic year. It focuses on how working part-time affects students’ GPA, study habits, and overall time management. Data will be collected through quantitative surveys and academic records. Delimitation The study is limited to undergraduate students who are employed part-time, working between 10 to 30 hours per week. It excludes: Graduate students, to maintain focus on the undergraduate experience. Students working fewer than 10 hours or more than 30 hours per week, to analyze the impact within a specific range of part-time employment. Students from private universities, to ensure consistency in the educational environment and resources available at public universities. Non-traditional students (over the age of 25) and those with significant external responsibilities (e.g., caregiving), to minimize variability related to different life stages and commitments.

What is the scope of a study?

The scope defines the boundaries of a study, including the research objectives, targeted population, variables, and the overall extent of the research.

What are delimitations in research?

Delimitations are choices made by the researcher which should define the boundaries of the study, intentionally setting limits on the study’s scope.

Why are scope and delimitation important?

They clarify what the study will cover and what it will not, helping to focus the research and manage expectations.

How do I define the scope of my research?

Identify the main objectives, the geographical location, the timeframe, the variables considered, and the target population.

What’s an example of a delimitation?

Limiting a study to a specific age group or excluding certain variables from analysis due to defined research boundaries.

How detailed should the scope be?

The scope should be detailed enough to give clear boundaries but flexible enough to allow comprehensive exploration of the topic.

Can the scope change during the research?

Ideally, the scope should remain as defined initially; however, unforeseen factors may necessitate slight adjustments.

How does delimitation affect the research outcome?

Delimitations focus the study but may also exclude factors that could provide additional insights, potentially affecting the comprehensiveness of the research.

Should I discuss scope and delimitation in the introduction?

Yes, briefly outline them in the introduction to set clear expectations and boundaries for your study.

What is the difference between delimitation and limitation?

Delimitations are control variables set by the researcher, while limitations are uncontrollable factors that constrain the research.

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Limited by our limitations

Paula t. ross.

Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA

Nikki L. Bibler Zaidi

Study limitations represent weaknesses within a research design that may influence outcomes and conclusions of the research. Researchers have an obligation to the academic community to present complete and honest limitations of a presented study. Too often, authors use generic descriptions to describe study limitations. Including redundant or irrelevant limitations is an ineffective use of the already limited word count. A meaningful presentation of study limitations should describe the potential limitation, explain the implication of the limitation, provide possible alternative approaches, and describe steps taken to mitigate the limitation. This includes placing research findings within their proper context to ensure readers do not overemphasize or minimize findings. A more complete presentation will enrich the readers’ understanding of the study’s limitations and support future investigation.

Introduction

Regardless of the format scholarship assumes, from qualitative research to clinical trials, all studies have limitations. Limitations represent weaknesses within the study that may influence outcomes and conclusions of the research. The goal of presenting limitations is to provide meaningful information to the reader; however, too often, limitations in medical education articles are overlooked or reduced to simplistic and minimally relevant themes (e.g., single institution study, use of self-reported data, or small sample size) [ 1 ]. This issue is prominent in other fields of inquiry in medicine as well. For example, despite the clinical implications, medical studies often fail to discuss how limitations could have affected the study findings and interpretations [ 2 ]. Further, observational research often fails to remind readers of the fundamental limitation inherent in the study design, which is the inability to attribute causation [ 3 ]. By reporting generic limitations or omitting them altogether, researchers miss opportunities to fully communicate the relevance of their work, illustrate how their work advances a larger field under study, and suggest potential areas for further investigation.

Goals of presenting limitations

Medical education scholarship should provide empirical evidence that deepens our knowledge and understanding of education [ 4 , 5 ], informs educational practice and process, [ 6 , 7 ] and serves as a forum for educating other researchers [ 8 ]. Providing study limitations is indeed an important part of this scholarly process. Without them, research consumers are pressed to fully grasp the potential exclusion areas or other biases that may affect the results and conclusions provided [ 9 ]. Study limitations should leave the reader thinking about opportunities to engage in prospective improvements [ 9 – 11 ] by presenting gaps in the current research and extant literature, thereby cultivating other researchers’ curiosity and interest in expanding the line of scholarly inquiry [ 9 ].

Presenting study limitations is also an ethical element of scientific inquiry [ 12 ]. It ensures transparency of both the research and the researchers [ 10 , 13 , 14 ], as well as provides transferability [ 15 ] and reproducibility of methods. Presenting limitations also supports proper interpretation and validity of the findings [ 16 ]. A study’s limitations should place research findings within their proper context to ensure readers are fully able to discern the credibility of a study’s conclusion, and can generalize findings appropriately [ 16 ].

Why some authors may fail to present limitations

As Price and Murnan [ 8 ] note, there may be overriding reasons why researchers do not sufficiently report the limitations of their study. For example, authors may not fully understand the importance and implications of their study’s limitations or assume that not discussing them may increase the likelihood of publication. Word limits imposed by journals may also prevent authors from providing thorough descriptions of their study’s limitations [ 17 ]. Still another possible reason for excluding limitations is a diffusion of responsibility in which some authors may incorrectly assume that the journal editor is responsible for identifying limitations. Regardless of reason or intent, researchers have an obligation to the academic community to present complete and honest study limitations.

A guide to presenting limitations

The presentation of limitations should describe the potential limitations, explain the implication of the limitations, provide possible alternative approaches, and describe steps taken to mitigate the limitations. Too often, authors only list the potential limitations, without including these other important elements.

Describe the limitations

When describing limitations authors should identify the limitation type to clearly introduce the limitation and specify the origin of the limitation. This helps to ensure readers are able to interpret and generalize findings appropriately. Here we outline various limitation types that can occur at different stages of the research process.

Study design

Some study limitations originate from conscious choices made by the researcher (also known as delimitations) to narrow the scope of the study [ 1 , 8 , 18 ]. For example, the researcher may have designed the study for a particular age group, sex, race, ethnicity, geographically defined region, or some other attribute that would limit to whom the findings can be generalized. Such delimitations involve conscious exclusionary and inclusionary decisions made during the development of the study plan, which may represent a systematic bias intentionally introduced into the study design or instrument by the researcher [ 8 ]. The clear description and delineation of delimitations and limitations will assist editors and reviewers in understanding any methodological issues.

Data collection

Study limitations can also be introduced during data collection. An unintentional consequence of human subjects research is the potential of the researcher to influence how participants respond to their questions. Even when appropriate methods for sampling have been employed, some studies remain limited by the use of data collected only from participants who decided to enrol in the study (self-selection bias) [ 11 , 19 ]. In some cases, participants may provide biased input by responding to questions they believe are favourable to the researcher rather than their authentic response (social desirability bias) [ 20 – 22 ]. Participants may influence the data collected by changing their behaviour when they are knowingly being observed (Hawthorne effect) [ 23 ]. Researchers—in their role as an observer—may also bias the data they collect by allowing a first impression of the participant to be influenced by a single characteristic or impression of another characteristic either unfavourably (horns effect) or favourably (halo effort) [ 24 ].

Data analysis

Study limitations may arise as a consequence of the type of statistical analysis performed. Some studies may not follow the basic tenets of inferential statistical analyses when they use convenience sampling (i.e. non-probability sampling) rather than employing probability sampling from a target population [ 19 ]. Another limitation that can arise during statistical analyses occurs when studies employ unplanned post-hoc data analyses that were not specified before the initial analysis [ 25 ]. Unplanned post-hoc analysis may lead to statistical relationships that suggest associations but are no more than coincidental findings [ 23 ]. Therefore, when unplanned post-hoc analyses are conducted, this should be clearly stated to allow the reader to make proper interpretation and conclusions—especially when only a subset of the original sample is investigated [ 23 ].

Study results

The limitations of any research study will be rooted in the validity of its results—specifically threats to internal or external validity [ 8 ]. Internal validity refers to reliability or accuracy of the study results [ 26 ], while external validity pertains to the generalizability of results from the study’s sample to the larger, target population [ 8 ].

Examples of threats to internal validity include: effects of events external to the study (history), changes in participants due to time instead of the studied effect (maturation), systematic reduction in participants related to a feature of the study (attrition), changes in participant responses due to repeatedly measuring participants (testing effect), modifications to the instrument (instrumentality) and selecting participants based on extreme scores that will regress towards the mean in repeat tests (regression to the mean) [ 27 ].

Threats to external validity include factors that might inhibit generalizability of results from the study’s sample to the larger, target population [ 8 , 27 ]. External validity is challenged when results from a study cannot be generalized to its larger population or to similar populations in terms of the context, setting, participants and time [ 18 ]. Therefore, limitations should be made transparent in the results to inform research consumers of any known or potentially hidden biases that may have affected the study and prevent generalization beyond the study parameters.

Explain the implication(s) of each limitation

Authors should include the potential impact of the limitations (e.g., likelihood, magnitude) [ 13 ] as well as address specific validity implications of the results and subsequent conclusions [ 16 , 28 ]. For example, self-reported data may lead to inaccuracies (e.g. due to social desirability bias) which threatens internal validity [ 19 ]. Even a researcher’s inappropriate attribution to a characteristic or outcome (e.g., stereotyping) can overemphasize (either positively or negatively) unrelated characteristics or outcomes (halo or horns effect) and impact the internal validity [ 24 ]. Participants’ awareness that they are part of a research study can also influence outcomes (Hawthorne effect) and limit external validity of findings [ 23 ]. External validity may also be threatened should the respondents’ propensity for participation be correlated with the substantive topic of study, as data will be biased and not represent the population of interest (self-selection bias) [ 29 ]. Having this explanation helps readers interpret the results and generalize the applicability of the results for their own setting.

Provide potential alternative approaches and explanations

Often, researchers use other studies’ limitations as the first step in formulating new research questions and shaping the next phase of research. Therefore, it is important for readers to understand why potential alternative approaches (e.g. approaches taken by others exploring similar topics) were not taken. In addition to alternative approaches, authors can also present alternative explanations for their own study’s findings [ 13 ]. This information is valuable coming from the researcher because of the direct, relevant experience and insight gained as they conducted the study. The presentation of alternative approaches represents a major contribution to the scholarly community.

Describe steps taken to minimize each limitation

No research design is perfect and free from explicit and implicit biases; however various methods can be employed to minimize the impact of study limitations. Some suggested steps to mitigate or minimize the limitations mentioned above include using neutral questions, randomized response technique, force choice items, or self-administered questionnaires to reduce respondents’ discomfort when answering sensitive questions (social desirability bias) [ 21 ]; using unobtrusive data collection measures (e.g., use of secondary data) that do not require the researcher to be present (Hawthorne effect) [ 11 , 30 ]; using standardized rubrics and objective assessment forms with clearly defined scoring instructions to minimize researcher bias, or making rater adjustments to assessment scores to account for rater tendencies (halo or horns effect) [ 24 ]; or using existing data or control groups (self-selection bias) [ 11 , 30 ]. When appropriate, researchers should provide sufficient evidence that demonstrates the steps taken to mitigate limitations as part of their study design [ 13 ].

In conclusion, authors may be limiting the impact of their research by neglecting or providing abbreviated and generic limitations. We present several examples of limitations to consider; however, this should not be considered an exhaustive list nor should these examples be added to the growing list of generic and overused limitations. Instead, careful thought should go into presenting limitations after research has concluded and the major findings have been described. Limitations help focus the reader on key findings, therefore it is important to only address the most salient limitations of the study [ 17 , 28 ] related to the specific research problem, not general limitations of most studies [ 1 ]. It is important not to minimize the limitations of study design or results. Rather, results, including their limitations, must help readers draw connections between current research and the extant literature.

The quality and rigor of our research is largely defined by our limitations [ 31 ]. In fact, one of the top reasons reviewers report recommending acceptance of medical education research manuscripts involves limitations—specifically how the study’s interpretation accounts for its limitations [ 32 ]. Therefore, it is not only best for authors to acknowledge their study’s limitations rather than to have them identified by an editor or reviewer, but proper framing and presentation of limitations can actually increase the likelihood of acceptance. Perhaps, these issues could be ameliorated if academic and research organizations adopted policies and/or expectations to guide authors in proper description of limitations.

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Seed Grant Successes: How Five Funded Research Projects Will Address The Challenges And Opportunities Of An Ageing Society

The UNSW Ageing Futures Institute has funded five interdisciplinary projects that aim to address the complex issues of an ageing population.

The projects range from ageism in health, falls prevention in the home, assessing dementia risk and virtual rehabilitation and mobility for ageing in place. The Institute’s seed grant program, that has been running since 2019, supports the development of outstanding quality projects with demonstrated pathways to impact and longer-term research collaborations and impact across all facets of society. The awarded projects and lead investigators include: TCC-REHAB: The development of a telerehabilitation app to assess the mobility of older people and people with Parkinson’s disease This seed funding project will develop a smartphone app-based telerehabilitation system, also called TCC-REHAB. Using TCC-REHAB, the project team will create remote but reliable and valid assessments to examine mobility issues, among other measures of balance and gait of older people and people with Parkinson’s disease. This information will provide healthcare providers with robust tools for remote clinical assessments, reaching consumers in remote and rural areas where access to healthcare is scarce and challenging, reducing disparities in the care of older people and people with Parkinson’s disease. Lead Investigator: Dr Paulo Pelicioni conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of neurorehabilitation, human movement sciences and neuroscience, focused on preventing falls in people with neurological disorders. His fields of expertise and current areas of interest include developing and optimising clinical tools for neurological assessments and neurorehabilitation, understanding the mechanisms of falls in older people and people with Parkinson’s disease, equity in Parkinson’s care, and understanding the function of healthy and pathological brains. Lost in Translation: Does ageist and gendered language drive low male participation in health promotion research? Recent studies highlight significant challenges in engaging older men in Intergenerational Programmes (IGPs) due to societal stereotypes and perceived barriers around caregiving roles traditionally associated with women. Despite evidence that IPGs promote social, mental, and physical well-being among older adults and children alike, male participation remains low, underscoring the need for tailored engagement strategies. The project seeks to identify and test effective methods to increase male involvement, including what language is used to describe and promote IPGs, with the aim to expand the reach and efficacy of these programs. Lead Investigator: Dr Katya Numbers’ research explores how certain lifestyle choices are associated with dementia risk and how to detect early signs of dementia through behaviour. Specifically, Dr Numbers studies how older adults' self-reported cognitive and physical difficulties relate to their risk of developing dementia, how views on ageing impact mental and physical well-being in later life, and strategies for combating harmful stereotypes about ageing and age-related conditions like dementia. Development and pilot of a rapid-response, virtual, fall-risk assessment and management service for community-dwelling older aged care clients This project proposes a novel approach to falls prevention by developing a virtual, AHP-led, rapid-response fall-risk assessment and management service for community aged care clients, underpinned by the development of screening algorithms by which community aged care workers can readily identify those clients at highest risk of falling. This project is a critical stepping stone towards larger-scale initiatives, including a validation study of the risk stratification and identification algorithm and the virtually-delivered AHP rapid-response fall-risk assessment and management service. A broader study could involve additional aged care providers to support validation across more diverse populations and locations, and to compare the virtually delivered service model against the current ‘gold standard’ of face-to-face AHP assessment. Lead Investigator: Dr Lindsey Brett is a physiotherapist by background and has worked in a variety of aged care focused clinical and academic settings in Australia and the UK over the last 16 years. She completed her PhD in 2017 and her research and focuses on aged care and physiotherapy-related topics, such as community aged care services, falls, and dementia. Meeting the need for valid mid-life dementia risk assessment: Development and validation of risk scores for a midlife specific dementia risk tool The proposed project will provide a much needed dementia risk tool for middle aged adults with well validated and rigorous scientific measures, research methodology and implementation research. The current project will meet the consumer demand for having a risk score for the middle-aged population that is specific to risk profiles and modifiable factors at this age. Moreover, the current project will bring together highly regarded clinical scientists, developers of the existing CogDrisk tool, and consumer feedback from users to improve online and clinician’s assessments using the tool. This will improve online dementia risk assessment and contribute to dementia risk reduction by providing tailored guidance for users to improve lifestyle habits. The outcome of the project will benefit middle aged adults who are not only at risk of dementia but also cardiometabolic disease (e.g., stroke, coronary heart disease, diabetes etc) by identifying risk factors that are common between dementia and these non-communicable diseases. Lead Investigator: Dr Md Hamidul Huque is a Research Fellow (statistician) at the School of Psychology, University of New South Wales. His research focused in dementia epidemiology, risk factors for dementia, risk tools development and methodological issues in large administrative datasets. Beyond Step Counts: Using Wrist-Mount Motion Sensors to Accurately Evaluate Mobility Information on movement quality, mobility level, and walking aid compliance can inform clinical decisions and facilitate rehabilitation. Our project aims to develop and validate a real-world mobility measurement method for walking aid users using wrist-worn motion sensors. The research output may apply to a wide range of commercial smartwatches and bands, optimizing recovery in geriatric and orthopedic patients. Lead Investigator: Dr. Lloyd Chan is an APA-titled research physiotherapist and a postdoctoral fellow at NeuRA. His research focuses on quantifying daily-life walking patterns and predicting age-related conditions using wearable devices. Read more about the UNSW Ageing Futures Institute’s seed grant program here

Project 2025 partner claims Trump's conviction was the result of witchcraft

Senior reporter and editor at the Family Research Council’s blog cites “ancient Egypt” and “Babylon” to claim “dark arts” are aligning against Trump

Written by Sophie Lawton

Published 06/05/24 9:13 AM EDT

The Family Research Council’s news outlet, The Washington Stand, posted a June 3 commentary claiming “the Left” used witchcraft and ancient spiritual warfare tactics to secure 34 guilty verdicts in former President Donald Trump’s New York hush money trial last week. FRC, which has been designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center for its anti-LGBTQ activism, is a partner of The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 , a large-scale effort to provide staff and policy proposals for the next GOP presidential administration. 

The blog titled “ The Spiritual Warfare behind the Trump Conviction ” was written by senior reporter and editor Ben Johnson, who opens by claiming he is a “prophet” for predicting in 2021 that “the Left” would go after Trump with lawfare in the Southern District of New York. 

Johnson explains his view on how witchcraft factored into the prosecution and conviction of Trump in his New York City trial, claiming Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg “pulled off an act of voodoo jurisprudence”:

Just as Christians’ spiritual warfare usually takes place without dramatic manifestations and apparitions of angels and demons, so too can witchcraft manifest itself without cauldrons and hexes — possibly even without TikTok and Teen Vogue. In a secular age that trusts government as its “god,” modern witchcraft means using the State to harass and control, to loose and to bind, and to impose a dark will on a subdued populace.

Johnson also describes the ways that “spiritual warfare of our age manifests itself.” The first is apparently related to the “dark arts” of “ancient Egypt, where Pharaoh imposed the dictates of his hardened heart on God’s people with the help of his official advisors, the ‘wise men and sorcerers’ and magicians.” Johnson concluded this “gaudy occultism” has returned, as seen by pro-abortion and pro-LGBTQ protesters yelling “Hail Satan” and using other satanic references. 

Johnson also refers to a period when “self-described witches attempted to place a ‘hex’” on Trump, adding: “Wiccan practitioners on TikTok — which they have aptly dubbed ‘WitchTok’ — also exerted their spiritual energies against Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy.” Johnson later claims that “Christians consistently living out their faith have little to fear from demonic attacks” but infers that American Christians are likely at risk due to their acceptance of sex outside of marriage, linking to a Pew Research Center study on religious attitudes toward casual sex. 

Johnson also cites ancient Babylon to support his argument, recounting a story about an alleged spiritual weakness during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar that left the public vulnerable to a “battle against God’s people through the instrumentality of government.” 

Echoing Christian nationalist rhetoric used by Trump allies and other Project 2025 partners, Johnson concludes that Christians are in danger from the left's spiritual warfare and should “consecrate their political action” around removing such dangers from society, telling readers:

The next era of Christian politics must expel the army of career bureaucrats and politicized prosecutors who bend the law to their master’s will. In its place, we must reestablish one binding rule of law for all people (Numbers 15:16). And if those who abused the legal process broke any applicable laws or statutes in the process, perhaps they should learn the truth of the Scriptures: “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7).

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BREAKING: UC Santa Barbara Returns Commencements to Original Location After Public Pushback

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UC Santa Barbara Leads $9.5 Million Research Project on Ocean Cycles

Multinational Research Team to Investigate Ocean's Carbon, Oxygen and Heat Cycles

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This article was originally published in UCSB’s ‘ The Current ‘.  

The ocean is a vast and complex web of intertwined systems. Chemistry, currents, temperature and nutrients all ebb and flow, each feeding back into the others.

A multinational research team, led by UC Santa Barbara’s  Tim DeVries  and Ralph Keeling from Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, aims to investigate the ocean’s carbon, oxygen and heat cycles. The project, which spans 11 institutions, has received $9.5 million from the nonprofit Schmidt Sciences to fund research over the next five years. It is one of five selected by Schmidt Science and the Schmidt Ocean Institute to join the philanthropy’s Ocean Biogeochemistry Virtual Institute (OBVI).

“Many processes affect all three of these cycles: carbon, heat and oxygen,” said DeVries, a professor in the Geography Department. “Studying them together will help us to understand all these processes better.”

This project has an ambitious scope, and the team hopes to answer a number of questions over the next few years. They aim to quantify how much carbon dioxide enters and exits the ocean, whether this rate is changing over time, and if so why. They also want to characterize trends in dissolved oxygen and the processes that govern them. They have similar questions for heat transfer and ocean temperature. Finally, the $9.5 million question is how climate change affects all these processes.

“We started out with about four of five of us, and the group gradually grew as our project got more ambitious,” DeVries said. “We tried to target the best senior researchers in the world for each facet of our project, which made our team quite international.”

The scope naturally clusters into four main areas, each with its own group and team leader. DeVries will lead the large-scale modeling, while Laure Resplandy (at Princeton University) spearheads multi-scale modeling and machine learning. The group working with ocean observational data will rally around Seth Bushinsky at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Finally, Keeling will lead the group analyzing atmospheric observations.

Rounding out the team are Pedram Hassanzadeh at University of Chicago, Heather Graven at Imperial College London, Casper Labuschagne at the South African Weather Service, Peter Landschuetzer at Flanders Marine Institute, Francois Primeau at University of California Irvine, Christian Roedenbeck at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, and Laure Zanna at New York University.

The project is about two-thirds modeling and one-third observation. The modeling teams will try to integrate insights from simulations at different scales using new machine learning techniques. Meanwhile, the observational teams will measure atmospheric carbon and oxygen in the Southern Hemisphere and scour existing datasets of ocean carbon, oxygen and heat to develop compilations to train the models.

“I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting project,” Keeling said. “As an atmospheric scientist, I’m especially excited to be working with oceanographers to build tools that allow atmospheric measurements to be integrated with ocean measurements for studying changes in the oceans.”

Although climate change is often framed in terms of the atmosphere, the ocean takes up more than 95% of the excess heat due to greenhouse gas emissions. It also absorbs about 30% of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activity. “Without the ocean, global warming would have caused the atmosphere to heat up by much more than it already has,” DeVries explained.

Changing seawater temperature and chemistry cut broadly across many aspects of the marine environment. Ocean acidification hinders animals’ ability to form carbonate shells and skeletons. Lower oxygen levels can impact marine life across the board. Heat can kill certain organisms outright, and cause others to change their behaviors and shift their ranges.

These cycles also influence each other in complex ways. For instance, a warmer ocean cannot hold as much oxygen or CO 2 . And if ocean circulation slows down, it will probably reduce how much heat the ocean takes up. Both of these could diminish how much oxygen makes it to the ocean’s depths.

Sussing out the interplay between the ocean’s carbon, oxygen and heat cycles is crucial for predicting how our world will change in the coming years. “This project will produce an unprecedented level of understanding of the physical and biogeochemical processes affecting these interlinked cycles” DeVries said.

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Engineering faculty researching solutions for the safe storage of spent nuclear fuels, pradeep menezes and mano misra lead $500,000 nrc-funded project.

New process to repair containers used to store nuclear fuel is designed to increase safety.

Mechanical Engineering Associate Professor Pradeep Menezes and Chemical & Materials Engineering Professor Mano Misra have been awarded a $500,000 Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) grant for their project to strengthen storage canisters used for nuclear waste. The project, "Manufacturing of Spent Fuel Storage Canisters with Superior Stress Corrosion Cracking Resistance using Advanced Hybrid Laser-Arc Welding and High-Pressure Cold Spray Additive Post-Processing," was funded in early 2024.

This project addresses chloride-induced stress corrosion cracking (CISCC) of stainless-steel containers used to store used nuclear fuel. The professors say their work promises to significantly advance nuclear safety and engineering, ensuring a more secure future for nuclear waste management.

“The project will elevate the University’s visibility in nuclear science and engineering both nationally and globally,” Menezes said.

This research also involves graduate students and provides opportunities for undergraduates from minority-serving institutions, fostering the development of the next generation workforce in nuclear science and engineering.

Novel concept put into action

The United States currently has over 80,000 metric tons of spent nuclear fuels stored in approximately 1,500 dry storage canisters across 63 independent interim storage locations. With storage durations expected to exceed 50 years, these canisters, made from a special type of welded stainless steel, face significant challenges. Over time, these canisters are exposed to environments where salty liquids that attract moisture from the air form on the surfaces of containers, leading to CISCC. Such failures could eventually cause nuclear radiation leakage, endangering nearby populations.

Historically, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) has been used to repair CISCC in the fusion-welded regions of the dry storage canisters. However, GMAW involves high heat input, melting and solidification, which are undesirable for the safety of on-site canister manufacture and repair.

Menezes and Misra's research introduces a novel concept combining advanced hybrid laser-arc welding (HLAW) with high-pressure cold spray (HPCS) post-processing. This HPCS additive deposition method enhances surface structural integrity by using the kinetic energy of powder particles, which impinge on the substrate at high velocity and pressure. Unlike traditional thermal energy-based methods, HPCS does not generate thermal stress, oxidation or other detrimental effects, making it a cost-competitive alternative. The proposed technique is expected to significantly enhance the performance of dry storage canisters, delaying CISCC initiation and propagation.

The HLAW process is anticipated to produce weld joints with superior resistance to pitting corrosion and CISCC compared to conventional GMAW joints. Additionally, the HPCS coating acts as a barrier, further mitigating CISCC. The enhanced resistance and longevity of the dry storage canisters achieved through this research could save millions of dollars in repair and rework costs, while also increasing safety and security for spent nuclear fuels storage applications. The project involves both experimental and computational work.

Related work with the DOE

Misra and Menezes have been collaborating for the past three years on a similar project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, which is responsible for research and development into the long-term disposition of spent nuclear fuel.

This other project, supported by $799,000 in DOE funding, focuses on mitigating stress corrosion cracking in nuclear storage canisters through various peening techniques. The project offers an alternative approach to extending the lifespan of the welded areas in dry storage casks by applying mechanical and thermal peening techniques.

Menezes brings over 20 years of research experience in surface modification techniques, degradation analysis, HPCS and finite element modeling. He has written over 180 refereed journal publications, 10 books and holds one issued U.S. patent. Recognized as a leading scientist, Menezes boasts a Google Scholar citation count exceeding 10,000 and an H-index of 50. He was listed among the top scientists by Research.com in its 2024 national rankings and is also featured in Elsevier's top 2% of scientists worldwide, both for career-long and single-year contributions.

Misra, with over 200 papers published in refereed journals and 14 issued U.S. patents, is a longtime collaborator of Menezes’. Their partnership has previously secured several significant grants, including those from the National Science Foundation, NASA, the DOE’s Advanced Manufacturing Office and the Nuclear Energy University Program.

Research & Innovation

Andrei Derevianko elected AAAS Fellow in the field of physics

From being recognized as University of Nevada, Reno Outstanding Researcher to Sara Louise Hartman Endowed Professor, Derevianko is adding another item to his impressive list of accolades

Visit Lake Tahoe on May 30 to learn about “The Promise of Chemical Ecology”

Neurodegenerative disease prevention, “blue zones” and environmental conservation to be discussed at the Hitchcock Center for Chemical Ecology keynote presentation

University recognizes Engineering researchers this spring

Ebrahamian, Pagilla and Tavakkoli acknowledged at Honor the Best May 14

2024 Research & Innovation Awards

Honoring faculty through awards and fellowships

Editor's Picks

AsPIre working group provides community, networking for Asian, Pacific Islander faculty and staff

University confers more than 3,000 degrees during spring commencement ceremonies

Father and son set to receive doctoral degrees May 17

Strong advisory board supports new Supply Chain and Transportation Management program in College of Business

Faces of the Pack: Meet artist and advocate Connor Fogal

Painting with a brush attached to an adaptive headset, University faculty member creates a 35-foot-wide mural for the campus community

Better bike paths as one solution to heat and climate change-induced traffic congestion around Lake Tahoe

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency approves the 2024 Active Transportation Plan as warming temperatures and congestion continue to impact the region

Molly Flagg Knudtsen: No place for a woman

Knudtsen was a cattle rancher, author and educator who served on the NSHE Board of Regents

School of Public Health launches donor management and transplantation science certificate program

Program provides critical training for the organ and transplantation process; addresses health disparities in the field

Improving students’ mental health and behavior through Multi-Tiered System of Supports

'We've seen kids and families get healthier, and it's incredibly rewarding,' said Shauna Bake, MTSS coordinator with Pershing County School District

From lizards to humans, a journey in pursuit of science

Madison Glenwinkel, a student in the College of Liberal Arts, received the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF-GRFP) award

University of Nevada, Reno team develops new vegetation mapping tools

Improved management of rangeland, better recovery from wildfires, among likely benefits

Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology to host second annual Aphasia Camp in September 2024

The annual Nevada Aphasia Camp brings people from diverse backgrounds together for a weekend of camping filled with activities, good food and great conversation

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Project VeLLM

uniVersal Empowerment with LLMs

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