From Topic to Research Question

Learning outcome: define a research focus

LIBR 250, Section1Winter 2013 / Terrones

Is this a good research question?

My paper is on the use of therapy dogs to treat trauma victims.

What according to published research are the nutritional benefits of eating organic foods?

What are the effects of video games on society?

College students and social mediaHow does divorce affect children?

Research Questions do:

• Start with a “W” (what, who ..) or “How”• Investigate the value of something (e.g. good,

appropriate, relevant, just).• Look at the cause and effect of something (e.g.

impacts, influences, results, prior events).• Examine a topic by geography or group (e.g.

city, countries, college students, women).

From Topic to Question

TopicSocial media

Texting

Mexican drug war

Research QuestionWhat are the pros and cons of social media use by college students?

How does texting impact driver safety?

What role do journalists play in reporting on the Mexican drug war?

LMU http://libguides.lmu.edu/content.php?pid=10084&sid=1965230

LMU http://libguides.lmu.edu/content.php?pid=10084&sid=1965230

LMU http://libguides.lmu.edu/content.php?pid=10084&sid=1965230

Topic Wallhttp://wallwisher.com/wall/LIBR250

Need a Topic?

• Idea generator http://www.lib.odu.edu/researchassistance/ideagenerator/

• CQ Researcher http://library.cqpress.com/cqresearcher/

LIBR 250 class website

http://calstatela.libguides.com/terrones_libr250

Due Jan. 17• Email Terrones your research question (CSULA

email account)• Read Moving from Assignment to Topic• Complete Learning Survey