Step 2: Choose a Topic

 
  
1. Do Initial Planning   
2. Choose a Topic   
3. Do Initial Search   
4. Refine topic  
5. Identify key sources   
6. Study key sources   
7. Integrate   
8. Present findings  
Beginner's mind 
References
 The ideal topic allows you to meet the requirements of the assignment by exploring something that intensely interests you. 

If you don’t already know what you want to investigate, brainstorm and reflect on what you would like to do. At this stage, you can choose a general topic.  You can refine your topic later (in step 4). 

Brainstorm possible topics

Brainstorming is typically used with groups, but it can also be done individually. The idea is to generate and write down as many ideas as possible--no matter how ridiculous or impractical--without censoring or rejecting any of them. 

Come up with as many ideas for topics as you can and write all of them down, no matter how great, poor, or absurd. The goal at this point is quantity, not quality. After brainstorming for five or ten minutes, take a look at what you came up with. 

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Reflect on your project 

  • What questions do you have about the subject you are exploring?

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  • What perplexes you?
Think of your project as a journey. You can’t possibly know all the answers in advance (if you did, why bother going?). But you can ask questions. They can help you identify a topic you would like to pursue. 

Keep in mind that a search can be powerfully motivated by a need to resolve an intellectual or personal dilemma. Such a dilemma, or unresolved question, can be a clue in choosing a topic. 

Write down your questions and reflect on them. 

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Consider Your Audience 

Identify your audience. Unless you are doing research purely for personal satisfaction, you are probably going analyze the information you collect and then present your findings. 
  • Who are you going to present your findings to?

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  • How can you frame your topic in a way that addresses the needs of your audience? 

Choose a Topic

Based on your brainstorming, reflections, and audience, choose a topic to investigate. Remember that this choice is not cast in concrete. As you explore further, you will no doubt modify and refine your topic. 

Step 2 Outcomes 

  • A list of possible topics 
  • Questions 
  • Identification of intended audience 
  • Topic
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Evaluating Online Information