Controversial Topics in Health Education Identifying Scholarly Based Research

Project Objectives  To properly identify scholarly research on controversial health related issues.  To present research findings on a controversial health topic after completing a research paper.

Project Requirements  Each student will be required to submit a two page position paper prior to their class presentation.  The research paper must include five key points supporting the assigned position.  A minimum of three scholarly resources must be included on a separate works cited page.  Oral presentation on research findings.  Prior to researching the assigned health topic, each student will be required to complete a Search Strategy exercise.

Controversial Topics of Debate Condom Distribution in SchoolsMandatory Dress Code in Schools Marijuana Legalization (For Recreational Use) Legalization of Gay Marriage in all States The Death PenaltyRandom Drug Testing for Students in Schools Banning of Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery for Minors (Under 18) Social Networking Sites: To Use or Not To Use AbortionAssisted Suicide Altering the Drinking AgeBanning Junk Food in Schools (Bake sales, fundraisers, sporting events) Media Images of Men and Women (Banning altered photos including Photoshop) Should Homework be a Requirement in Schools Animal ExperimentationMandating Parenting Classes for First Time Parents

Who is Policing the Internet? The Importance of Scholarly Research

Guidelines Used to Identify Scholarly Research Banners Limited Advertising Bias

The Importance of Website Banners Website Banners Look for a banner on the top of the website. Examples: The National Institutes of Health The National Institute on Drug Abuse

Limited Advertising When initially evaluating a website, look for advertising. Excessive advertising on a website is a red flag that the information on that particular site may not be reliable. If you see a lot of advertising on a website, search for the information on another site. Example: Diet Tips

Be Cautious of Website Biases When evaluating websites for scholarly research, be mindful of website biases. Examples: The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws  The National Rifle Association 

Which Websites Are Appropriate for Research Purposes ? Better website choices usually include the following extensions: .edu Educationally based websites .org Organization based websites .gov Government created websites Avoid websites that end with.com as these sites are typically commercial websites designed to sell something. However, it’s important to note there are always EXCEPTIONS!

Evaluation Criteria for Websites *** The following three criteria MUST be present for each website you use for your project! 1. Is the website current? When was it last updated?  Example: The Centers for Disease Control  Who is the authorizing party or the expert in the field?  Example: The World Health Organization  Does the website provide contact information?  Example: USA.gov – The U.S. Government’s official web portal. 

MLA Citation Format The “Works Cited Format” including all proper citations can be accessed through the District website: om/-works-cited-format.html om/-works-cited-format.html

Search Strategy You will be required to complete a Search Strategy exercise which poses the following questions to help develop your search terms: List some things you already know about your topic. List 5 questions about your topic. These should be things you want to find out during your research. Think about how? why? what if? From the lists generated, identify at least 10 keywords (include synonyms) that may become search terms. List all potential sources of information, including our Library databases, search engines, directory websites, individual websites, Library catalogs, etc.

Project Due Dates Research Paper Due Date: Class Presentation Date: