Lesson Topic:

 Selection & Development of a Research Topic & Reviewing the Literature
Objectives:
  1. Make a list of at least three educational topics for which you would be interested in conducting a research study.
  2. Select one of the topics and identify 10 to 15 complete references that directly relate to the selected problem. The references should include multiple sources (e.g., books, periodicals, Internet reports, etc.).
  3. Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative methods of starting a research study.
  4. Read and abstract the references you have listed.
  5. Formulate a testable or descriptive hypothesis for your problem.

 
Activities:
  1. Read Chapters 2 & 3 - Selecting & Defining a Research Topic & Reviewing the Literature
  2. Respond to the Blackboard Discussion Post and one other classmate's post for the chapter reading before Monday at Noon.
  3. Develop a list of three research topics in agricultural/extension education for the next class meeting. Here are some criteria for good research questions.
  4. See the Tarleton Library for some research databases.
  5. Download the Class 2 - In Class Activity Sheet