Step 1

STEP 1: DEFINE TASK

"Enjoyable learning experiences that are both motivating and meaningful don't just happen. They require thoughtful preparation and the conscious use of lessons learned from previous successful projects."

~ Doug Johnson ~

TOPIC SELECTION

The topic selection by the teacher represents a crucial aspect of the success of any research topic. In most cases teachers will define an area of study, but leave it to students to select an aspect of the topic for research. When guiding students in their selection of a suitable topic, teachers should

	consider the purpose of the assignment,
	ensure that there are enough resources available for research,
	choose a topic that can be handled in the time and space available, and
	encourage students to choose a topic within the guidelines of the assignment that interests them.

PRIOR KNOWLEDGE

Comprehension is a process by which meaning is constructed using background knowledge in conjunction with new information. It is therefore important that students be made aware of what they already know about the subject they will be researching. Activating prior knowledge will also help them to generate and develop research questions that will promote learning. When prior knowledge is limited, students could consult general sources, e.g. an article from an encyclopedia or magazine, to obtain a broad understanding of a topic.

DEVELOPING RESEARCH QUESTIONS

When given an opportunity to generate their own questions, students become actively involved in constructing meaning from learning content, thus fostering better understanding of the content. It is also an excellent way for students to narrow down a broad topic and develop a research question that clearly expresses the focus and purpose of the assignment.

STRATEGIES

There are several strategies teachers can follow to help students activate prior knowledge and/or generate questions that will lead to the development of a research question, e.g. brainstorming a research topic, the use of graphic organizers, as well as visual learning techniques such as concept mapping, idea mapping and webbing.

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Designing Research Projects Students (and Teachers) Love

An excellent article written by Doug Johnson, Director of Media and Technology for Mankato Public Schools, Mankato, Minnesota. The rubric provided assists teachers in designing research projects that are intrinsically motivating.

Writing a Research Paper

This tutorial, developed by Sarah Hamid, provides guidelines on writing a research paper. The section on developing a research question or hypothesis is particularly helpful. The web site is part of the Owl Online Writing Lab, which is sponsored by Purdue University.


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