1) What makes a good research topic? A good research topic is interesting, relevant, realistic, focused, and specific. 2) How do I know if my topic is too broad? Your topic is too broad if it can be summarized in one or two words, if you’re finding so much information it’s overwhelming, or if your topic lacks a specific focus. 3) Brainstorming your topic with the 5 Ws: Who – Specific population? Ethnic group? Sex? Age Group? Culture? Occupation? Species? What – Issue? Theory? Particular aspect? When – Current? Historical? Specific time frame? Period of life? Where – Regions? Countries? Cities? Rural? Urban? • Why/How? – How does it relate to other things? Why is it important? 4) Create your research question (example) Who? – Elderly patients. What? – Abuse. Where? – Nursing homes. Why/How? – Staff training. Research question: Does less staff training in nursing homes lead to more cases of elder abuse? 5) Evaluate your research question. Research question that is too narrow: What is the childhood obesity rate in Phoenix, AZ? Research question that is less narrow: How does the education level of the parents impact childhood obesity rates in Phoenix, AZ? Research question that is unclear: Why are social networking sites harmful? Research question that is clear: How are online users experiencing or addressing privacy issues on social networking sites such as Facebook? Research question that is too simple: How are school systems addressing childhood obesity? Research question that is more complex: What are the effects of intervention programs in the elementary schools on the rate of childhood obesity among 3rd-5th grade students?
Topic overviews, contrasting viewpoints, articles, primary source documents, statistics, videos, and recommended websites covering specific issues.
Full-text periodicals on issues from 1923 through current. All articles include an introduction to the topic, a lengthy overview, background information, the current situation, the outlook, and a pro/con section.
