All Miami students will complete a research assignment of some kind during their academic career.  This guidebook explains a step-by-step process for research that is useful for any subject.  Most importantly, this research guidebook provides tips on key research-related subjects including:  1.) Strategies for choosing your topic, 2.) Making the most of both library and Internet approaches to research, 3.) Recognizing and evaluating important information, and 4.) Seeking out specialized university resources to assist you with the research process.

 

Establishing Purpose:  Choosing a Good Topic

 

The key to choosing a good topic to research is curiosity.  It is essential that, if given the opportunity, you choose a topic that genuinely interests you.   Choose your research topic carefully and do not be afraid to change your topic if something emerges that interests you more or you find a different angle/approach to your current topic.  Remember, if you are bored by your research topic your paper will likely be boring as well and you will end up having negative feelings about finishing the project and conducting future research.

 

If your instructor limits your choice of topics, it will be more difficult to generate a topic that promotes interest.  However, there are strategies for developing a more interesting topic while remaining within the limitations of a structured assignment. To generate a more appealing research topic, consider looking at your specified topic through several different lenses. A more interesting topic might emerge by asking yourself the following questions:

 

· People. Who has been influential in shaping ideas in the topic   area? Could I profile this person and her contributions?

· Trends. What are some recent developments in this area? Are any significant?  Why?

· Controversies. What aspects of the topic generate the most heated debate among experts in the field? Which is most interesting to you?

· Impact. What is it about your topic that currently has some effect on people or the physical environment?  What may have an impact in the future?  Why?

 

 

Research Guidebook