What term refers to the aims or objectives an investigator hopes to achieve with their research?

The term that refers to the aims or objectives an investigator hopes to achieve with their research is the purpose. In any research study, the purpose provides a clear direction and rationale for the investigation, outlining what the researcher intends to discover or accomplish. It frames the scope of the study and guides the development of the research question and hypothesis. Essentially, it serves as the foundation upon which the entire research is built, ensuring that the study remains focused on its primary goals.

In contrast, the research question is a specific query that the researcher seeks to answer; it stems from the study's purpose but does not encapsulate the overall aim alone. The hypothesis is a testable prediction based on the research question, providing a specific expectation that can be measured. Study design refers to the overall strategy or methodology employed to conduct the research, detailing how the study will be structured and carried out but not identifying the overarching aims. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the research process, but the purpose distinctly highlights the core intentions of the investigator.