Assessing the Topic of Choice: Is This a Good One?
Let’s check on your research project topic. This is the first step in your research journey so take the time to make sure it will work for you. A topic that is right for you will provide motivation, inspiration and interest throughout the research process. Look at the checkbric below and assess the strength of your possible topic.
Rating scale: 3=high to 1=low
Criteria
Rigor
Requires mastery of knowledge and skills related to a program of study
Demands in-depth research
3 2 1 Comments and Feedback
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When I went to the doctor, my blood pressure was higher than normal; I think it was due to the hunky nurse.
Leads to the building of deeper knowledge and application of higherorder thinking
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Is challenging academically and personally
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Level of Interest/passion
Links to personal interests/passion
Motivates to discover and gain new knowledge
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I don’t want to be misdiagnosed since it may hurt my athletic chances.
Relates to possible career/post high school plans
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Connection to community
Relates to real-world issue/concern
Impacts the community
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Misdiagnosis will lead people to be on medication unnecessarily, create concern among patients and impact the chances of careers, etc.
Provides opportunity for communication/connection with community
Resources
Requires use of a variety of media, methods and sources
√ I will need to look at both historic and current information. I may also need to speak to people (medical professionals and patients).
Ensures that these resources are available and accessible
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Time
Can be successfully researched within the required timeframe
√ I should be able to complete it within the timeframe.
Good job! If you scored 3s, you have probably found the topic for you. If a 1 appeared in any area, you may want to rethink or readjust the topic focus. Remember: selecting the right topic for you makes the difference between a successful project and a difficult one!
Developed by The PEARL Project, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services