Researching a Problematic Issue:
We’re all guilty at some point of researching in an immature fashion. That is to say, we investiga e an issue by merely retrieving a source or two that just confirms what we already believe or understand. In this way, we seek confirmation, not alternative viewpoints or new perspectives.
In George Orwell’s famous novel 1984, the protagonist Winston Smith thinks to himself: “The best books, he perceived, are those that tell you what you already know” (200). This thought of Winston sort of encapsulates a human fault that we must shun this semester.
Authentic research is the exploration of new sources or gain new insights: there is a genuine spirit of inquiry.
Authentic research is time-consuming process though: the researcher develops her/his position as sources are discovered and as time permits. Perhaps this is why real research is not easy: we would rather form a simple conclusion than put forth the effort to understand the positions of others.
For this project, your objective is to research a complex, problematic, or open-ended issue. You will choose your own research topic. Anything complex is worth researching. As you research, you must find sources that reveal new perspectives to you, that confront your normal way of thinking, or that shed new light on your chosen research topic.
Upon completion of your research, respond to the following questions to complete your project:
- What prompted you to begin your research? Or what was your initial motivation for researching this topic? Walk me through your thought process as you chose your research topic and began researching your sources.
- Cite and summarize your 3 favorite sources. (Each summary should be at least 150 words.)
- Reflect on why these 3 sources are the most significant. Why did you choose to mention these 3 sources? What stands out with these 3 sources?
- How has your mind changed (or not changed) as a result of your research? Have you been altered in some way? Have your thoughts or perceptions evolved at all on this topic? How have you grown?
- Create a Works Cited or References section that lists (in either MLA or APA format) all of your sources. 7 sources are the minimum.
You must meet the following criteria:
1. List 7 credible sources on your Works Cited or References page.
2. Provide effective summaries of your 3 favorite sources.
3. Offer personal reflections on those 3 favorite sources.
4. Discuss how your thoughts have developed as a result of your research.