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The background of the problem is longer than the statement of the research problem itself. It is one of the determinant factors that give significant impact on research, it should explain the origins of the research question or problem, drawing on researcher’s preliminary reading. All cited materials should be presented with specific references, prepared according to one of the structured methods.

Harvard University Extension School (2003) explained that in the background section, researcher should review what has been done already in this area of research and the way(s) in which the proposed project will differ from earlier work. Researcher should show that he/she is familiar with the major current opinions or interpretations concerning the problem he/she has chosen so that it can avoid duplicating an existing or outdated research.

The background section’s aim is not only to provide simply a general overview of the topic but also to demonstrate that a specific problem has been identified and to show its relationship to the research.

The background of the problem should be:

(i)                 Directed specifically to the research problem and must indicate the carefully documented views of experts;

(ii)               Well organized,  others’ research should be considered in a systematic fashion, according to topic, date, perspective, or some other logical means;

(iii)             Able to establish the focus of researcher’s own research in relation to prior scholarship; and

(iv)             Detailed with relevant examples that illustrate how researcher’s approach to the subject will illuminate it.

Woodall (n.d) had explained that the normal length of research background is recommended around 3 (three) to 5 (five). It should sketch the background leading to the present application, critically evaluate existing knowledge, and specifically identify the gaps that the project is intended to fill.

Griffin (n.d) described that in the background of the research, the researcher should present relevant literature that supports the need for his/her project. Research articles, books, educational and government statistics are just a few sources that should be used here. This section can include brief overviews of articles covered in the literature review that support the need for the project.