The Central Course Essay looks at a contemporary problem and proposes a research-based solution. The problem-solution essay is essentially a persuasive essay that seeks to show readers how a particular problem could be solved using the solution (or solutions) you are proposing. The paper will have three sections:
1. A description of the problem as it is now: you need to convince the reader that there is a problem.
2. A cause and effect analysis: where did this problem come from? If we don’t act to solve it, what is likely to happen?
3. A solution or solutions: what can / should we do to solve the problem? Your solution should synthesize your source material.
Topics are everywhere! You don't need to look far to find inspiration. Your topic could emerge from articles and books you have read, class discussions, personal experiences, and more. Pick something that interests you as a starting point and go from there.
A good place to get topic ideas are pro/con databases that have browsable topic starters.
Once you have identified a topic that captures your interest, do some background research and brainstorm sub-topics to help narrow your research question.
Below are some brainstorming resources.
Check library databases to see if journalists or scholars have written about your topic in magazines, newspapers, or academic journals. You can use the blue search box right on the main page.
Is there sufficient, relevant information available from appropriate sources?
If not, you may need to reconsider/revise your research question. Remember, research is a process!
"When you pick your topic, it's not set in stone. Picking and adjusting your topic is an integral part of the research process!"
Is your topic too broad or too narrow?
Below are some examples of adjusting a research topic from being too broad or too narrow.
| Too Broad | Too narrow | Better | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topic 1 | Teenagers and the Internet. | Police involvement with cyberbullying among girls at Wisconsin middle schools. | American legal issues in cyberbullying. |
| Topic 2 | Cyberbullying and middle schoolers. | Impact of abusive posts on Twitter on the self-esteem of 7th grade girls. | Impact of cyberbullying on academic performance in adolescents. |
| Topic 3 | Boys and cyberbullying. | Differences in types of bullying photographs posted on Instagram by boys vs. girls. | Gender differences in how cyberbullying is performed. |
The video explains how to pick a good topic, keeping in mind a narrow focus and picking a question about which there is some controversy (like the death penalty).
Below is a series of steps to help you develop a research topic.
Source: "Research Question Worksheet." Laurier Library.
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