1. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 1 Refining & Defining a Topic Module 2 Jeannie Kamerman

2. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 2 Student Learning Outcomes for Module 2  Students will be able to select workable topics for class assignments  Students will be able to recognize keywords to use in database searching  Students will be introduced to searching basics

3. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 3 Refining & Defining a Topic Worksheet Link  How to choose a research topic.  Reasons topics may not work.  Means to refine and define the topic.

4. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 4 Hints for Choosing a Research Topic  Choose a topic to research that is of interest to you.  Ensure that the topic is within your professor’s guidelines.  Consider topics that are mentioned in your course curriculum.  Consider topics covered or discussed in class.

5. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 5 Finding a Starting Point: Suggestions for Inspiration  Peruse your textbook and related readings.  Find a journal in your discipline and browse for an inspiration.  Is there a problem or a case you have observed or discovered which needs a solution?

6. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 6 Research Topic Worksheet Research Topic Worksheet  Let’s take some time to complete a worksheet that will help you  refine your topic  arrive at keywords to use in searching  determine how to link your concepts

7. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 7 Reasons the Topic May Not “Work”  Topic is too narrow, consider broadening the scope  Example of a topic which is too narrow : Inclusive methods for teaching science in middle schools in Florida.  Omit Florida limitation

8. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 8 Reasons the Topic May Not “Work” - continued  Topic is too broad, consider narrowing and focusing on one aspect  Example of a topic which is too broad: Teaching Language Arts  Instead choose “Learning Strategies or Best Practices for Teaching Language Arts in Preschool through Kindergarten”

9. jvKamerman UWF Libraries 2006 9 More Means of Defining & Refining Topics  Choose a topic that is controversial  Focus on the theories of a single expert  Geographic limitations  Limit to one state or region  Limit the time period  Recent years or to a range of years