Choosing a research topic is one of your first challenges. Here are some tips:
Topic Development Exercise |
Take a few minutes to think through these questions. Write down the answers, or have a friend interview you. It will help you choose and focus your topic. |
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| Why? |
- Why did you choose this topic?
- What interests you about it?
- Do you have an opinion about the issues involved with this topic?
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| Who? |
- Who are the information providers on this topic? Who might publish information on this issue?
- Who is affected by your topic? Are there certain population groups or organizations particularly affected by the issues?
- Who are the significant authors affiliated with this topic? Are you aware of specific institutions or organizations?
- Do specific authors present a particular viewpoint on the topic?
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| What? |
- Is there a debate about the topic to be aware of?
- Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?
- What are the major issues or questions for this topic?
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| Where? |
- Are there specific places associated with the topic?
- Is your topic of local, national, or international importance?
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| When? |
- Is there a specific time period that your topic falls into?
- Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?
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