Understanding the Research Assignment
Consider the following steps before you begin your
research:
- Has a topic already been assigned or have you selected a
topic?
- What do you already know about the subject?
- How much information do you need? Is your assignment a
five minute speech or a ten page paper?
- What kind of information do you need? Scholarly research
or general interest? Does your instructor want you to use
print resources, online resources or both?
If your instructor hasn't already assigned a research topic,
you may want to use the following resources to help your
search. Remember, choose a topic that interests you!
Databases:
- CQ Researcher -- This database covers
current hot social and political issues such as the economy,
education, environment, health, international affairs,
science and technology.
- Newstand -- This database covers
more than 450 U.S. and international newspapers. Browsing or
searching this database may help you select a research
topic.
Books:
- Opposing Viewpoints -- A popular series
that explores controversial subjects, including health care
and foreign policy.
- At Issue -- Another resource that
discusses hot topics such as religion, politics and capital
punishment.
Periodicals:
If your still not sure what research topic you would like to
focus on, visit the Lovejoy Library's periodicals collection on
the 2nd floor. Here you can flip through
hundreds of scholarly journals and popular periodicals,
including Law and Society Review, New Yorker,
Politics and Society and the International Journal
on World Peace.
This is only a suggested list of possible resources that may
help you select a research topic. If you need further
assistance, ask a librarian!
