Before a research question is assigned, both the instructor and the student must be clear on whether the object is inquiry or research. Inquiry involves finding existing answers to a topic that the student is motivated to explore. Research involves reading an original conclusion. In its simplest form, a student could engage in inquiry and then come up with their own original argument or position on a topic. That would count as research. Both inquiry and research are valuable; just be sure everyone knows what's expected.

Narrowing A Research Question

Quick Lesson Idea: You might want to consider having students just write research questions - even if you are not planning to do the research. This is hard enough for students...and then they have to start the research! Double click on the images and an arrow shooting out of a rectangle will appear on the top right hand corner enabling you to expand each document and view and copy it in Google Drive.

U.C. Merced Handout With Activity: What Makes a Good Research Topic?

Remember to click the expand button on the top left after double clicking to view and copy from Google Drive.

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