Select Topic - Research Process :: Step by Step - Subject and Course Guides at University of Texas at Arlington

TOPICsearch This link opens in a new window
Find topics to discuss and research. This current events database covers topics such as politics, social and economic issues, scientific discoveries and other popular topics
Find topics to discuss and research in TOPICsearch. This current events database covers topics such as politics, social and economic issues, scientific discoveries and other popular topics. Includes 40,000 documents including selected full-text articles from public opinion polls, book reviews, pamphlets, and government information and nearly 100 U.S. newspapers. Search the database by keyword, subject, topic, or natural language.
CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
Provides reports focused on topics of current interest covering a wide range of social, economic, political, and environmental issues. A great tool to use for discovering research topics and gathering background information.

Google News
This site provides national and international news on a variety of subjects gathered from over 4,000 sources.

Points of View Reference Center This link opens in a new window
Points of View Reference Center provides a series of articles representing multiple controversial viewpoints. This resource can be used as a guide to debate, developing arguments, writing position papers, and for development of critical thinking skills.
Points of View Reference Center is a full-text database which provides 200 topics, each with an overview (objective background/description), point (argument) and counterpoint (opposing argument). Topics covered include such as: affirmative action, cloning, DNA profiling, HIV/AIDS status disclosure, immigration, the Iraq, Israel & the Palestinians, Katrina and FEMA response, nuclear proliferation, separation of church and state, standardizing testing, stem cell research, tax cuts, voting machines, etc.

Choose a topic that interests you and holds your attention. The research will be more enjoyable!

Understanding your assignment

Make sure you understand your assignment and its requirements.

Consider the following:

Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own?
How many pages/words do you need to write? How long is your presentation?
Do you need to include specific types of sources? (e.g. scholarly articles, books, newspapers, etc.)
When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?

When in doubt, consult with your instructor.

Can’t think of a topic to research?

Scan your textbook for broad topic ideas.
Review your class discussions, notes, and readings.
Peruse current magazines and newspapers to see what catches your eye.
Browse print and electronic encyclopedias.
Look at databases that feature articles on current events and controversial issues such as CQ Researcher and Points of View Reference Center.
Discuss potential topics with your instructor, a librarian, or a classmate.

Brainstorming

Ask yourself the following questions to help you generate topic ideas:

Do you have a strong opinion on a current social or political controversy?
Did you read or see a news story recently that has interested you?
Do you have a personal issue, problem or interest that you would like to know more about?
Is there an aspect of one of your classes that you would like to learn more about?