how do i find a research topic in education

250+ Educational Research Topics: Exploring the Path to Educational Excellence

Education is the cornerstone of human development, and its continuous improvement relies on diligent research and exploration. Educational research topics serve as beacons, guiding scholars and practitioners toward innovations that enhance teaching methodologies, student engagement, and overall learning outcomes. These educational research topics delve into the depths of educational systems, dissecting their intricacies to identify effective strategies and interventions. 

From investigating the impact of technology integration on student achievement to exploring the benefits of inclusive education, educational research delves into diverse areas of study. 

In this blog series, we embark on an enlightening journey, shedding light on a myriad of educational research topics. By examining these subjects, we aim to unravel valuable insights that can shape the future of education, fostering an enriching learning experience for all.

How to choose the right educational research topics?

Choosing the right educational research topic requires careful consideration. Here are some steps to help you select a suitable topic:

Identify your interests

Start by reflecting on your own interests within the field of education. What topics or issues capture your attention? Consider areas such as student learning, teaching methods, educational policies, or educational technology.

Conduct a literature review

Read widely in the field of education to familiarize yourself with current research trends and gaps in knowledge. Identify areas where more research is needed or where existing studies have conflicting results.

Consider practical relevance

Think about the practical implications of the research topic. Is it relevant to current educational challenges or issues? Will the findings have the potential to inform and improve educational practice?

Consult with experts

Seek guidance from professors, researchers, or professionals in the field of education. Discuss your potential research topics with them and get their insights and recommendations. They can provide valuable feedback and suggest areas that align with your research goals.

Narrow down the scope

Once you have a general idea, narrow down your topic to make it more focused and manageable. Consider the available resources, time constraints, and the feasibility of conducting research in that specific area.

Define research objectives

Clearly define your research objectives and questions. What specific aspects of the topic do you want to explore? Ensure that your research objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Research feasibility

Consider the availability of data and resources required to conduct research on your chosen topic. Evaluate whether you have access to relevant literature, data sources, or research participants. Additionally, consider ethical considerations and any potential constraints that may impact your research.

Seek feedback

Share your potential research topic with peers or mentors and seek their feedback. They can provide valuable insights, suggest improvements, or offer alternative perspectives.

Remember, selecting a research topic is an iterative process. It’s essential to be flexible and open to adjustments as you gather more information and refine your research objectives.

15+ College educational research topics

• The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in improving student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The impact of online learning on student achievement and retention rates.
• Strategies for promoting critical thinking skills in college classrooms.
• The influence of active learning techniques on student participation and comprehension.
• The role of project-based learning in developing real-world skills among college students.
• Factors influencing student motivation and engagement in higher education.
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring programs in supporting student learning and success.
• The impact of online discussion forums on student interaction and collaboration.
• The role of feedback and assessment in enhancing student learning and performance.
• The relationship between classroom environment and student academic achievement.
• Strategies for promoting effective communication skills among college students.
• The impact of experiential learning opportunities on student career readiness.
• The effectiveness of blended learning approaches in higher education.
• The role of metacognition in promoting deep learning among college students.
• The impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences.
• Factors influencing student decision-making in choosing majors and career paths.
• The effectiveness of student support services (e.g., counseling, tutoring, mentoring) in promoting student success.
• The relationship between student engagement in co-curricular activities and academic performance.

15+ Health educational research topics

• The effectiveness of health education programs in reducing risky behaviors among teenagers.
• The impact of school-based physical activity interventions on children’s health and well-being.
• The role of nutrition education in promoting healthy eating habits among adolescents.
• The effectiveness of sex education programs in reducing teen pregnancy rates.
• The impact of mental health education on student well-being and academic performance.
• The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress and improving mental health among students.
• The role of health education in preventing substance abuse among young adults.
• The impact of comprehensive sex education on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to sexual health.
• The effectiveness of school-based vaccination programs in improving immunization rates among students.
• The role of physical education in promoting lifelong physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits.
• The impact of school wellness policies on student health outcomes.
• The effectiveness of health literacy interventions in improving health knowledge and behaviors.
• The role of peer education in promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention among young people.
• The impact of nutrition education on reducing childhood obesity rates.
• The effectiveness of school-based bullying prevention programs on student mental health and well-being.
• The role of school nurses in promoting health and providing healthcare services to students.
• The impact of health education on knowledge and behaviors related to hygiene and disease prevention.

15+ Educational research topics on Medicine

• The effectiveness of online medical education in comparison to traditional classroom-based education.
• The impact of simulation-based training on medical students’ clinical skills and confidence.
• Strategies for promoting interprofessional education and collaboration in healthcare settings.
• The role of virtual reality in medical education and its impact on knowledge retention and skill development.
• The use of gamification in medical education to enhance engagement and learning outcomes.
• Investigating the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) in medical schools.
• Assessing the impact of clinical rotations on medical students’ clinical competency and preparedness.
• Exploring the integration of cultural competency training in medical education curricula.
• Investigating the use of e-portfolios for reflective practice and competency assessment in medical education.
• The effectiveness of flipped classroom models in medical education.
• Investigating the impact of longitudinal clerkships on medical students’ professional identity formation.
• Examining the use of standardized patients in medical education and their impact on students’ communication and clinical skills.
• Exploring the role of medical simulation centers in enhancing medical students’ procedural skills and patient safety.
• Investigating the impact of peer teaching and peer-assisted learning in medical education.
• Assessing the effectiveness of team-based learning (TBL) in medical education.
• Investigating the use of virtual patient cases for clinical reasoning and decision-making skills development.
• The role of medical humanities in developing empathy and cultural understanding among medical students.

15+ Educational research topics on Environment

• The effectiveness of environmental education programs in promoting environmental awareness and behavior change among students.
• Investigating the role of schools in fostering environmental literacy and sustainability.
• Assessing the impact of outdoor learning experiences on students’ environmental knowledge and attitudes.
• Exploring the effectiveness of the environmental education curriculum in developing students’ eco-literacy.
• Investigating the relationship between environmental education and pro-environmental behavior in children.
• Examining the impact of environmental education on students’ attitudes towards conservation and environmental stewardship.
• Investigating the role of teachers in promoting environmental education and sustainability practices in schools.
• Assessing the effectiveness of school recycling programs in reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
• Investigating the impact of school gardens on students’ understanding of and connection to the environment.
• Exploring the role of environmental education in fostering climate change awareness and action among students.
• Assessing the effectiveness of environmental education interventions in addressing environmental justice issues.
• Investigating the impact of environmental education on students’ understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem conservation.
• Exploring the use of technology and digital tools in enhancing environmental education and engagement.
• Assessing the effectiveness of environmental education in promoting sustainable consumption and lifestyle choices.
• Investigating the role of environmental education in mitigating environmental pollution and promoting environmental health.

15+ Educational research topics on Sport and Entertainment

• The impact of physical education on academic performance.
• Strategies for promoting physical activity among children and adolescents.
• The role of sports in character development and life skills acquisition.
• The influence of sports participation on self-esteem and self-confidence.
• The effectiveness of coaching styles in enhancing athlete performance and motivation.
• The impact of sport on social integration and community development.
• The role of sports in promoting gender equality and empowerment.
• The relationship between sports and academic engagement among student-athletes.
• The effects of sports specialization on long-term athletic success and well-being.
• The role of sports in promoting mental health and well-being.
• Strategies for preventing and managing sports-related injuries among athletes.
• The impact of sports marketing and sponsorship on consumer behavior.
• The influence of sports media on public perception and participation in sports.
• The role of entertainment education in promoting health and well-being.
• The effects of celebrity endorsements in the entertainment industry.
• The impact of music and dance education on cognitive development and academic achievement.
• The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in sports training and entertainment experiences.
• The effects of video games on cognitive skills and decision-making abilities in sports.

15+ Educational research topics for college students

• The effectiveness of online learning in higher education.
• The impact of student engagement on academic performance in college.
• Strategies for improving critical thinking skills in college students.
• The role of self-regulated learning in college success.
• The effects of student motivation on academic achievement in college.
• The impact of flipped classrooms on student learning in college.
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring programs in college settings.
• The influence of social media on student well-being and academic performance in college.
• The benefits and challenges of incorporating experiential learning in college curricula.
• The relationship between college student stress levels and academic performance.
• The impact of diverse learning environments on student learning outcomes in college.
• Strategies for promoting effective time management skills among college students.
• The role of metacognitive strategies in improving study habits and academic success in college.
• The effectiveness of active learning strategies in college classrooms.
• The influence of cultural competence in teaching and learning in college settings.
• The effects of collaborative learning on student engagement and academic achievement in college.
• The role of feedback and assessment practices in enhancing student learning in college.
• The impact of study abroad programs on intercultural competency development in college students.

15+ Educational research topics on Media and Communication

• The influence of media literacy education on critical thinking skills of students.
• The role of social media in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviors.
• The impact of media use on academic performance and learning outcomes.
• Effective strategies for teaching media literacy in the classroom.
• The use of digital media in promoting creativity and expression among students.
• The effects of media violence on children and adolescents.
• Media representations of diverse cultures and their effects on students’ perceptions.
• The role of media in shaping students’ political and social awareness.
• The influence of the media on body image and self-esteem among students.
• Media literacy and its relationship to digital citizenship.
• The role of media in promoting cultural understanding and tolerance among students.
• The impact of media on students’ language development and communication skills.
• The use of media in promoting active learning and student engagement.
• The effects of social media on students’ social interactions and relationships.
• The role of media in enhancing students’ information literacy skills.
• Media portrayal of gender roles and its impact on students’ attitudes and beliefs.
• The use of multimedia in improving students’ retention and comprehension of educational content.
• The influence of the media on students’ decision-making processes.

15+ Educational research topics on Technology

• The impact of online learning platforms on student engagement and academic performance.
• The effectiveness of educational apps in enhancing early childhood learning.
• The role of virtual reality in improving students’ understanding of complex concepts.
• Investigating the effectiveness of gamification in motivating students to learn.
• The use of artificial intelligence in personalized learning: benefits and challenges.
• Exploring the impact of mobile devices on student collaboration and information sharing.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of online discussion forums in promoting critical thinking skills.
• The use of educational video content for enhancing student comprehension and retention.
• Investigating the role of social media in supporting collaborative learning environments.
• The impact of coding and programming education on students’ problem-solving abilities.
• Assessing the effectiveness of blended learning models in K-12 classrooms.
• The influence of technology on teacher-student relationships and classroom dynamics.
• Investigating the factors influencing teachers’ adoption of technology in the classroom.
• The use of educational robotics in promoting STEM education and computational thinking skills.
• Examining the effects of digital storytelling on students’ creativity and narrative skills.
• The impact of online assessment tools on student performance and feedback effectiveness.
• Investigating the role of artificial intelligence in adaptive learning and personalized instruction.

15+ Educational research topics on Politics

• The influence of political ideologies on civic education.
• The role of political socialization in shaping young citizens’ political attitudes.
• The impact of political party affiliation on educational policies.
• The effectiveness of civic education programs in promoting political participation among youth.
• The influence of political bias in educational materials and its implications for student learning.
• The role of education in fostering democratic values and citizenship.
• The impact of political discourse in the classroom on student engagement and critical thinking.
• The relationship between political knowledge and voting behavior among college students.
• The representation of political issues and controversies in educational curricula.
• The impact of political activism and student protests on educational institutions.
• The influence of political factors on educational funding and resource allocation.
• The role of education in promoting tolerance and understanding in politically divided societies.
• The impact of political polarization on classroom dynamics and educational outcomes.
• The role of educational institutions in promoting political literacy and informed decision-making.
• The effects of political campaign advertising on students’ political attitudes and behavior.
• The impact of political decentralization on educational governance and policies.
• The role of education in addressing social justice issues and promoting political equality.

15+ Educational research topics on Thesis

• The effectiveness of project-based learning in enhancing student engagement and achievement.
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and academic performance.
• The role of parental involvement in students’ academic success.
• The influence of socioeconomic status on educational opportunities and outcomes.
• The effects of inclusive education on students with disabilities.
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in meeting the diverse learning needs of students.
• The impact of early childhood education on long-term academic and social development.
• The role of assessment and feedback in promoting student learning and achievement.
• The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction.
• The relationship between school climate and student well-being and academic success.
• The impact of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes.
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring in enhancing student learning and academic performance.
• The influence of cultural diversity on classroom dynamics and student learning experiences.
• The effects of homework on student achievement and overall well-being.
• The role of educational leadership in school improvement and student success.
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on students’ social skills and emotional well-being.
• The effectiveness of educational interventions for students with learning disabilities.
• The relationship between teacher beliefs and instructional practices in the classroom.
• The role of school counseling in supporting students’ academic and personal development.
• The effects of school-based nutrition programs on students’ health and academic performance.

15+ Psychology Educational research topics

• The influence of the classroom environment on student motivation and learning.
• The effects of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement and social-emotional development.
• The impact of mindfulness-based interventions on student well-being and academic performance.
• Gender differences in academic achievement and career choices in STEM fields.
• The role of self-efficacy in student learning and academic success.
• The effects of bullying on students’ psychological well-being and academic performance.
• The relationship between parental involvement and student achievement.
• The effectiveness of different teaching strategies in promoting critical thinking skills.
• The impact of peer tutoring on student learning outcomes.
• The role of motivation in academic procrastination among students.
• The effects of classroom diversity on intergroup relations and academic achievement.
• The relationship between learning styles and academic performance.
• The influence of educational technology on cognitive processes and learning outcomes.
• The effects of stress on students’ cognitive functioning and academic performance.
• The role of emotional intelligence in student success and well-being.
• The impact of extracurricular activities on students’ social and emotional development.
• The effectiveness of positive reinforcement techniques in classroom management and student behavior.

15+ Educational research topics on Sociology

• The influence of social class on educational attainment.
• The impact of cultural diversity in the classroom on student learning.
• The role of gender in educational achievement and career choices.
• Examining the effects of racial and ethnic segregation in schools.
• Exploring the relationship between teacher expectations and student performance.
• Investigating the effects of social capital on educational outcomes.
• Analyzing the impact of poverty on educational opportunities.
• Examining the role of social networks in students’ academic success.
• The influence of family background and socioeconomic status on educational outcomes.
• Exploring the effects of tracking and ability grouping in schools.
• Investigating the impact of school discipline policies on marginalized student populations.
• Examining the role of socialization in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviors.
• Analyzing the effects of peer influence on academic performance and engagement.
• Investigating the role of teacher-student relationships in student motivation and achievement.
• Exploring the effects of school climate and culture on student well-being and learning.
• Analyzing the impact of educational policies on educational equity and social justice.
• Investigating the relationship between educational institutions and social inequality.
• Exploring the effects of cultural capital on educational access and success.

15+ Educational research topics on Culture

• The influence of cultural diversity on student achievement in multicultural classrooms.
• The role of cultural sensitivity in teacher-student interactions and its impact on student learning outcomes.
• Exploring the relationship between cultural background and student engagement in the classroom.
• Investigating the effects of culturally responsive teaching practices on academic performance.
• Examining the impact of culturally relevant curriculum on student motivation and self-esteem.
• The role of cultural values in shaping parental involvement in education.
• Exploring the impact of culturally inclusive pedagogy on student attitudes towards diversity.
• Investigating the challenges and benefits of integrating culturally diverse literature in the classroom.
• The influence of cultural identity on student resilience and academic success.
• Examining the impact of cultural competency training on teachers’ ability to meet the needs of culturally diverse students.
• Investigating the role of cultural factors in shaping educational policies and practices.
• The impact of cultural integration programs on social cohesion and intercultural understanding in schools.
• Exploring the relationship between cultural competence of school leaders and the school climate.
• Investigating the influence of cultural stereotypes on teacher expectations and student outcomes.
• The role of cultural capital in educational achievement and attainment.
• Examining the impact of multicultural education on reducing prejudice and discrimination among students.
• Investigating the effects of cultural immersion experiences on students’ understanding of global citizenship.

15+ Leadership  Educational research topics

• The role of transformational leadership in improving student achievement.
• Exploring the relationship between instructional leadership and teacher effectiveness.
• Investigating the impact of distributed leadership on school culture and climate.
• Examining the influence of ethical leadership on organizational trust in educational institutions.
• The role of instructional coaching in supporting teacher leadership and professional development.
• Investigating the leadership practices that promote teacher collaboration and collective efficacy.
• Exploring the impact of principal leadership on teacher job satisfaction and retention.
• Investigating the effectiveness of distributed leadership in facilitating educational change.
• The role of servant leadership in promoting a positive school climate and student well-being.
• Exploring the relationship between instructional leadership and student engagement.
• Investigating the impact of instructional leadership on the implementation of evidence-based practices.
• The role of leadership in fostering parent and community engagement in schools.
• Examining the effectiveness of instructional leadership in promoting educational equity and closing achievement gaps.
• Investigating the leadership practices that facilitate successful school turnaround efforts.
• Exploring the impact of leadership development programs on leadership capacity in educational settings.
• Investigating the relationship between leadership styles and teacher motivation and job satisfaction.
• The role of distributed leadership in promoting instructional improvement and professional learning communities.

15+ Educational research topics for For Middle School

• The effectiveness of project-based learning in middle school classrooms.
• The impact of differentiated instruction on student achievement in mathematics.
• The role of physical activity and its influence on academic performance.
• The benefits of incorporating educational games in middle school curriculum.
• The effects of peer tutoring on student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The relationship between parental involvement and academic success in middle school.
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and well-being.
• The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in middle school science education.
• The influence of arts education on creativity and critical thinking skills.
• The role of mindfulness techniques in improving attention and concentration in middle school students.
• The benefits of incorporating multicultural literature in middle school English language arts.
• The impact of inquiry-based learning on student motivation and scientific inquiry skills.
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in middle school social studies classrooms.
• The relationship between school climate and student academic performance.
• The impact of technology integration on middle school students’ digital literacy skills.
• The benefits of incorporating financial literacy education in middle school curriculum.
• The role of teacher-student relationships in promoting a positive classroom environment.

15+ Educational research topics for For High School

• The effects of implementing project-based learning on student engagement and academic performance.
• The impact of flipped classrooms on student learning and retention of content.
• The role of teacher-student relationships in promoting academic success and well-being in high school.
• Investigating the effectiveness of different instructional methods (e.g., lecture, group work, online learning) in high school classrooms.
• Examining the influence of parental involvement on high school students’ academic achievement.
• The relationship between extracurricular activities and academic performance in high school.
• Exploring the effectiveness of different assessment methods (e.g., tests, projects, portfolios) in measuring high school students’ learning outcomes.
• Investigating the impact of integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) programs in high school curriculum on students’ well-being and academic achievement.
• The effects of incorporating technology in high school classrooms on students’ motivation and learning outcomes.
• Investigating the factors influencing high school students’ career decision-making and exploring effective career guidance approaches.
• Examining the impact of different teaching strategies on high school students’ critical thinking skills.
• Exploring the role of student voice and participation in decision-making processes in high schools.
• Investigating the effects of school climate and culture on high school students’ academic performance and well-being.
• The influence of parental expectations and aspirations on high school students’ educational attainment.
• Examining the impact of personalized learning approaches on high school students’ achievement and motivation.
• Investigating the effects of teacher professional development programs on instructional practices and student outcomes in high schools.
• The relationship between high school students’ self-regulation skills and academic achievement.

Tips to write educational research topics

Here are some tips to help you write effective educational research topics:

Identify a specific research problem: Start by identifying a specific issue or problem within the field of education that you want to investigate. Narrow down your topic to a specific aspect or area that interests you.

Be clear and concise: Formulate your research topic in a clear and concise manner. Avoid using vague or general terms. Make sure your topic is specific enough to guide your research and provide focus.

Consider the significance and relevance: Ensure that your research topic is significant and relevant to the field of education. Think about the potential impact and contribution of your research to the existing knowledge base.

Conduct a literature review: Before finalizing your research topic, conduct a literature review to familiarize yourself with the existing research and identify any gaps or areas for further investigation. This will help you refine your topic and ensure its originality.

Consult with experts: Seek feedback from your professors, advisors, or other experts in the field of education. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for refining your research topic.

Formulate research questions or objectives: Once you have identified your research problem, formulate specific research questions or objectives that you aim to address in your study. These will guide your research and provide a clear focus.

Consider feasibility: Evaluate the feasibility of your research topic in terms of available resources, data availability, and ethical considerations. Make sure your topic is manageable within the given constraints.

Stay flexible: Keep in mind that your research topic may evolve as you delve deeper into the literature and conduct your research. Be open to adjustments and modifications along the way to ensure that your topic remains relevant and aligned with your research goals.

By following these tips, you can develop a strong and focused educational research topic that will serve as the foundation for your study.

In conclusion, educational research topics play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of various aspects of education. These topics provide opportunities to explore innovative teaching methods, evaluate the impact of interventions, and investigate factors that influence student learning and well-being. 

By conducting research in high school settings, we can identify effective instructional strategies, examine the role of technology, and understand the importance of student-teacher relationships. Additionally, research topics in education shed light on the significance of parental involvement, extracurricular activities, and social-emotional learning in promoting student success. 

Through rigorous investigation, educational research topics contribute to evidence-based practices that can enhance educational outcomes and create a positive impact on the lives of high school students.

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Home » 500+ Educational Research Topics

500+ Educational Research Topics

Education is a fundamental human right that plays a vital role in shaping the future of individuals, communities, and societies. In order to improve the effectiveness of education, it is crucial to engage in rigorous educational research that seeks to understand how people learn, what factors influence their learning outcomes, and how educational systems can be designed to promote equitable access and success for all learners. Educational research topics cover a wide range of issues, from exploring new teaching methods to examining the impact of technology on learning. In this blog post, we will delve into some of the most important and relevant educational research topics, highlighting their significance and potential impact on the field of education.

Educational Research Topics

Educational Research Topics are as follows:

• The effects of personalized learning on student academic achievement
• The impact of teacher expectations on student achievement
• The effectiveness of flipped classroom models on student engagement and learning outcomes
• The impact of classroom design on student behavior and learning
• The relationship between socio-economic status and student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction on student academic achievement
• The impact of technology on student learning outcomes
• The effectiveness of online learning versus traditional classroom instruction
• The influence of teacher expectations on student achievement
• The role of parental involvement in student success
• The relationship between school culture and student engagement
• The impact of teacher training on student achievement
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring programs
• The relationship between socioeconomic status and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of project-based learning
• The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and achievement
• The role of homework in student learning
• The relationship between teacher-student rapport and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction
• The relationship between student self-esteem and academic achievement
• The impact of school size on student achievement
• The role of school discipline policies in student behavior and achievement
• The effectiveness of character education programs
• The relationship between school funding and student achievement
• The impact of school start times on student achievement
• The effectiveness of arts education programs
• The relationship between teacher feedback and student learning
• The impact of school climate on student achievement
• The effectiveness of online assessment tools
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student behavior
• The impact of school resources on student achievement
• The effectiveness of teacher collaboration
• The relationship between student motivation and academic achievement
• The impact of class size on student achievement
• The role of student-teacher trust in academic achievement
• The effectiveness of student-led conferences
• The relationship between student self-efficacy and academic achievement
• The impact of school culture on teacher job satisfaction
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning
• The relationship between teacher stress and student achievement
• The impact of school safety measures on student achievement
• The effectiveness of flipped classroom instruction
• The relationship between teacher diversity and student achievement
• The impact of technology integration on teacher job satisfaction
• The effectiveness of project-based assessment
• The relationship between school climate and teacher job satisfaction
• The impact of teacher job satisfaction on student achievement
• The effectiveness of service-learning programs
• The relationship between school leadership and teacher job satisfaction
• The impact of parent-teacher communication on student achievement
• The effectiveness of online professional development for teachers
• The relationship between student engagement and teacher job satisfaction
• The impact of peer mentoring programs on student achievement
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning
• The relationship between teacher-student ethnicity match and student achievement
• The impact of school discipline policies on teacher job satisfaction
• The relationship between teacher quality and student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of technology integration in the classroom
• The impact of parent involvement on student academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher leadership and student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student academic achievement
• The impact of class size on student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of project-based learning on student academic achievement
• The impact of teacher diversity on student academic achievement
• The relationship between student engagement and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of student-centered learning on academic achievement
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement
• The relationship between homework and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning on academic achievement
• The impact of school culture on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher collaboration and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of online learning on academic achievement
• The impact of standardized testing on student academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of mindfulness interventions on student academic achievement
• The impact of cultural competency on student academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student academic achievement
• The effectiveness of social-emotional learning on academic achievement
• The impact of parent-teacher communication on academic achievement
• The relationship between student-teacher relationships and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning on academic achievement
• The impact of learning environment on academic achievement
• The relationship between student attendance and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of feedback on academic achievement
• The impact of teacher expectations on student behavior
• The relationship between teacher training and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of teacher professional development on academic achievement
• The impact of teacher beliefs on student academic achievement
• The relationship between classroom management and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of bilingual education on academic achievement
• The impact of cultural background on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher turnover and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of tutoring programs on academic achievement
• The impact of teacher salaries on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher-student racial matching and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of college preparatory programs on academic achievement
• The impact of high-stakes testing on academic achievement
• The relationship between student well-being and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of service learning on academic achievement.
• The effects of technology on student learning outcomes.
• The relationship between parental involvement and student achievement.
• The impact of teacher feedback on student motivation and learning.
• The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction.
• The role of emotional intelligence in academic success.
• The relationship between sleep and academic performance.
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student achievement.
• The impact of early childhood education on later academic success.
• The effects of social media on academic performance and well-being.
• The impact of teacher expectations on student achievement.
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction on student learning outcomes.
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student performance.
• The effectiveness of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
• The impact of teacher training and professional development on student outcomes.
• The effects of school culture and climate on student engagement and achievement.
• The relationship between homework and student achievement.
• The effectiveness of gamification in education.
• The impact of nutrition on student academic performance.
• The effects of gender on academic achievement and attitudes towards learning.
• The effectiveness of project-based learning on student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The relationship between school attendance and academic performance.
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievement and well-being.
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning on student learning outcomes.
• The effects of parental involvement in homework on student achievement.
• The relationship between student engagement and academic performance.
• The impact of classroom size on student learning outcomes.
• The effectiveness of feedback in online learning environments.
• The effects of poverty on student academic achievement.
• The relationship between student motivation and academic achievement.
• The impact of school leadership on student outcomes.
• The effectiveness of formative assessment on student learning outcomes.
• The effects of school funding on student achievement.
• The relationship between student self-regulation and academic performance.
• The impact of cultural diversity on academic achievement and student attitudes towards learning.
• The effectiveness of technology integration in the classroom.
• The effects of teacher diversity on student achievement and attitudes towards learning.
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student engagement.
• The impact of school policies on student academic performance and behavior.
• The effectiveness of metacognitive strategies on student learning outcomes.
• The effects of parental involvement on student behavior and well-being.
• The relationship between teacher collaboration and student achievement.
• The impact of school transitions on student academic performance and well-being.
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning on student engagement and learning outcomes.
• The effects of standardized testing on student motivation and learning.
• The relationship between student self-efficacy and academic performance.
• The impact of cultural competency training on teacher attitudes and student outcomes.
• The effectiveness of blended learning on student achievement and engagement.
• The effects of teacher beliefs and attitudes on student outcomes.
• The relationship between student achievement and post-secondary success.
• The impact of extracurricular activities on student academic performance and well-being.
• The effectiveness of flipped classroom models in higher education
• The relationship between teacher-student rapport and academic performance
• The effects of parental involvement on student achievement
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in mixed-ability classrooms
• The impact of teacher collaboration on student learning outcomes
• The effectiveness of project-based learning in K-12 education
• The relationship between classroom climate and student motivation
• The effects of social media use on academic performance
• The impact of inclusive education on students with disabilities
• The effectiveness of online learning in higher education
• The relationship between school size and academic achievement
• The effects of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
• The impact of student-centered learning on student achievement
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning in K-12 education
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student achievement
• The effects of school funding on student achievement
• The impact of teacher training on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring in K-12 education
• The effects of class size on student achievement
• The impact of bilingual education on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of gamification in education
• The relationship between standardized testing and student achievement
• The effects of homework on student achievement
• The impact of parental involvement on college retention rates
• The effectiveness of problem-based learning in K-12 education
• The effects of teacher feedback on student learning outcomes
• The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic performance
• The effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction in K-12 education
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student outcomes
• The effects of teacher-student racial/ethnic matching on academic performance
• The impact of extracurricular activities on student achievement
• The effectiveness of blended learning in higher education
• The relationship between school leadership and student achievement
• The effects of parental involvement on student attendance
• The impact of peer influence on student achievement
• The effectiveness of outdoor learning in K-12 education
• The relationship between teacher autonomy and student outcomes
• The effects of teacher diversity on student achievement
• The impact of early childhood education on later academic achievement
• The effectiveness of mindfulness practices in education
• The relationship between teacher evaluation and student achievement
• The effects of student self-assessment on learning outcomes
• The impact of cultural competence on teacher-student relationships and academic performance
• The effectiveness of online discussion forums in higher education
• The relationship between school climate and student mental health
• The effects of student-teacher race/ethnicity matching on academic performance
• The impact of college majors on post-graduation outcomes.
• The impact of technology on student engagement and academic performance
• The effectiveness of project-based learning compared to traditional teaching methods
• The impact of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
• The relationship between teacher diversity and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of peer mentoring for at-risk students
• The impact of school funding on student achievement
• The relationship between parent-teacher communication and student success
• The effectiveness of social media for educational purposes
• The impact of inclusive education on academic achievement
• The effectiveness of teacher mentoring programs for new teachers
• The relationship between school funding and student outcomes
• The impact of teacher diversity on student achievement
• The effectiveness of using games in the classroom for learning
• The impact of teacher collaboration on teacher retention
• The effectiveness of using graphic novels in the classroom for literacy development
• The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and performance
• The effectiveness of teacher coaching on teacher practice and student learning
• The relationship between parent-teacher communication and student outcomes
• The impact of peer mentoring on academic achievement
• The effectiveness of teacher professional learning communities on student outcomes
• The relationship between teacher personality and classroom climate
• The impact of arts education on student creativity and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching math
• The relationship between teacher autonomy and teacher motivation
• The impact of student-led conferences on parent involvement and academic performance
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for gifted and talented students
• The relationship between school discipline policies and student mental health
• The impact of teacher leadership on school improvement
• The effectiveness of using social media in education
• The relationship between teacher beliefs and teacher effectiveness
• The impact of school size on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using simulations in the classroom for learning
• The relationship between parent involvement and teacher satisfaction
• The impact of outdoor education on student learning and development
• The effectiveness of using digital portfolios in the classroom for assessment
• The relationship between teacher collaboration and teacher professional growth
• The effectiveness of using multimedia in the classroom for learning
• The relationship between school choice and student achievement
• The impact of teacher empathy on student motivation and engagement
• The effectiveness of using mindfulness practices in the classroom
• The relationship between teacher creativity and student engagement
• The impact of student ownership on academic performance
• The effectiveness of using project-based learning in science education
• The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and teacher retention
• The impact of using drama in the classroom for learning
• The effectiveness of using educational apps in the classroom
• The relationship between teacher feedback and student achievement
• The impact of peer assessment on student learning
• The effectiveness of using simulations in social studies education
• The impact of teacher-parent partnerships on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using podcasts in the classroom for learning
• The relationship between teacher collaboration and teacher well-being
• The impact of school culture on parent involvement
• The effectiveness of using debate in the classroom for critical thinking skills.
• The impact of teacher-student ratio on academic performance
• The effectiveness of outdoor education on student learning
• The impact of teacher gender on student engagement and achievement
• The relationship between teacher feedback and student self-efficacy
• The effectiveness of blended learning for language education
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student attendance
• The relationship between teacher diversity and school culture
• The effectiveness of cultural responsiveness in the classroom
• The impact of school choice on student outcomes
• The relationship between classroom design and student engagement
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for gifted students
• The impact of student mobility on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher experience and classroom management
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching mathematics
• The impact of teacher burnout on student performance
• The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of arts education on student development
• The impact of standardized testing on student motivation and academic performance
• The relationship between teacher-student trust and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of online learning for adult education
• The impact of school culture on teacher retention
• The relationship between student motivation and academic success
• The effectiveness of game-based learning for science education
• The impact of teacher training on student outcomes in special education
• The relationship between teacher beliefs and classroom management
• The effectiveness of project-based learning for social studies education
• The impact of school leadership on teacher job satisfaction
• The relationship between teacher support and student mental health
• The effectiveness of experiential learning for environmental education
• The impact of teacher collaboration on student outcomes
• The relationship between school climate and student achievement
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching foreign languages
• The impact of teacher evaluation on instructional quality
• The relationship between school diversity and student achievement
• The effectiveness of multicultural education for promoting social justice
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student self-esteem
• The relationship between teacher turnover and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning for mathematics education
• The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student engagement
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching literacy
• The impact of teacher autonomy on classroom innovation
• The relationship between school climate and teacher job satisfaction.
• The relationship between classroom size and student achievement
• The impact of school leadership on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of different types of assessment methods
• The influence of teacher attitudes on student motivation and engagement
• The relationship between parental involvement and student achievement
• The effectiveness of different teaching strategies for diverse learners
• The impact of early childhood education on academic success
• The relationship between teacher training and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of different types of feedback on student learning
• The impact of student-centered learning on academic performance
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction for diverse learners
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic success
• The relationship between school culture and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of flipped classrooms compared to traditional classrooms
• The impact of classroom management on student behavior and academic performance
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring on student learning
• The impact of parental involvement on student behavior and social-emotional development
• The effectiveness of co-teaching for students with disabilities
• The impact of bilingual education on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher beliefs and student achievement
• The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom instruction
• The impact of school culture on teacher satisfaction and retention
• The relationship between teacher experience and student achievement
• The effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning environments
• The impact of teacher-student race/ethnicity matching on academic performance
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning for science education
• The relationship between school discipline policies and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of teacher professional development on student learning
• The impact of teacher preparation programs on teacher effectiveness
• The relationship between classroom climate and student engagement
• The effectiveness of teacher collaboration on student learning
• The impact of social-emotional learning on academic performance
• The relationship between teacher motivation and student achievement
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching English as a second language
• The impact of teacher autonomy on student outcomes
• The relationship between teacher feedback and student motivation
• The effectiveness of self-regulated learning strategies for academic success
• The impact of single-sex education on student achievement
• The relationship between teacher personality and student engagement
• The effectiveness of experiential learning for history education
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student mental health
• The relationship between school safety and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of mindfulness practices on student behavior and academic performance.
• The impact of technology on classroom learning
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in diverse classrooms
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student achievement
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic performance
• The effectiveness of teacher professional development on instructional practice
• The effectiveness of online learning during the pandemic
• The impact of teacher burnout on student achievement
• The effectiveness of early childhood education programs
• The impact of parental involvement on student success
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student performance
• The impact of school safety measures on student well-being
• The relationship between school culture and teacher satisfaction
• The effectiveness of using manipulatives in math education
• The impact of homework on student achievement
• The relationship between teacher preparation programs and teacher retention
• The effectiveness of using technology for literacy development
• The impact of social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic achievement
• The relationship between school leadership and teacher morale
• The effectiveness of using virtual reality in science education
• The impact of teacher gender on student achievement
• The relationship between parental involvement and student motivation
• The effectiveness of project-based learning in social studies education
• The impact of school climate on student attendance
• The relationship between teacher experience and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using game-based learning in language arts education
• The relationship between school funding and teacher quality
• The effectiveness of using inquiry-based learning in science education
• The impact of teacher expectations on student motivation
• The relationship between school facilities and student achievement
• The effectiveness of using music in the classroom for learning
• The impact of teacher diversity on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using graphic organizers in the classroom for writing
• The impact of teacher evaluation systems on teacher performance
• The relationship between school size and student achievement
• The effectiveness of using digital storytelling in the classroom
• The impact of teacher feedback on student learning
• The relationship between teacher professional development and student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using problem-based learning in math education
• The impact of school discipline policies on student outcomes
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student self-esteem
• The effectiveness of using visual aids in the classroom for learning
• The impact of school culture on teacher collaboration
• The relationship between school climate and student behavior
• The effectiveness of using drama in language arts education
• The impact of teacher motivation on student engagement
• The relationship between school culture and student academic identity
• The effectiveness of using mobile devices in the classroom for learning
• The relationship between school climate and teacher retention
• The effectiveness of using games for social-emotional learning
• The impact of teacher-student racial matching on student achievement.
• The relationship between parental involvement and academic achievement
• The impact of inclusive education on social and emotional development
• The effectiveness of blended learning on student outcomes
• The impact of school culture on student behavior and attitudes
• The effectiveness of flipped classroom models on student engagement
• The relationship between teacher autonomy and student motivation
• The impact of bilingual education on cognitive development
• The effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in the classroom
• The effectiveness of classroom management strategies on student behavior
• The impact of standardized testing on teaching and learning
• The effectiveness of peer tutoring on academic achievement
• The relationship between teacher training and student achievement
• The impact of cultural diversity on classroom dynamics and learning
• The effectiveness of technology in teaching and learning writing
• The relationship between school facilities and student learning
• The impact of teacher collaboration on instructional quality
• The effectiveness of project-based learning in science education
• The relationship between parent involvement and school climate
• The impact of teacher feedback on student learning and motivation
• The effectiveness of assessment tools in measuring student learning
• The relationship between student attitudes and academic achievement
• The impact of college readiness programs on student success
• The effectiveness of using graphic organizers for teaching reading comprehension
• The relationship between teacher leadership and school improvement
• The impact of special education programs on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using digital tools in teaching and learning history
• The relationship between school culture and student attendance
• The impact of teacher expectations on student self-efficacy
• The effectiveness of using peer assessment in student writing
• The impact of teacher preparation programs on instructional quality
• The impact of teacher-student ratio on student outcomes
• The relationship between student engagement and academic achievement in online learning
• The impact of teacher tenure policies on student outcomes
• The relationship between school safety and student learning
• The effectiveness of using game-based learning in the classroom.
• The impact of COVID-19 on online learning in K-12 education
• The effectiveness of differentiated instruction in a diverse classroom
• The impact of early literacy intervention programs on reading comprehension
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in science education
• The relationship between parent involvement and student academic success
• The impact of teacher feedback on student writing
• The effectiveness of using digital tools for formative assessment
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student engagement
• The relationship between school climate and bullying prevention
• The impact of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of using virtual reality in history education
• The relationship between teacher expectations and student self-efficacy
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on student well-being
• The effectiveness of using games for math learning in elementary school
• The relationship between teacher training and technology integration in the classroom
• The impact of school culture on student mental health
• The effectiveness of using project-based learning in social studies education
• The relationship between teacher autonomy and job satisfaction
• The impact of socio-economic status on access to higher education
• The effectiveness of using technology for language learning
• The relationship between school size and student outcomes
• The impact of school leadership on teacher retention
• The effectiveness of using active learning strategies in college classrooms
• The relationship between teacher collaboration and student achievement
• The impact of school-based mental health services on student well-being
• The effectiveness of using assistive technology for special education students
• The relationship between teacher job satisfaction and student performance
• The impact of school-based health education programs on student health behaviors
• The effectiveness of using simulations in science education
• The effectiveness of using educational games for literacy development
• The relationship between school culture and student academic achievement
• The impact of teacher professional development on student outcomes
• The effectiveness of using experiential learning in business education
• The impact of teacher diversity on student engagement
• The effectiveness of using graphic organizers in the classroom for reading comprehension
• The relationship between school climate and teacher collaboration
• The impact of school-based social-emotional learning programs on student behavior and academic performance
• The effectiveness of using mobile devices for language learning
• The relationship between teacher autonomy and teacher creativity
• The effectiveness of using game-based learning for STEM education
• The relationship between school climate and student motivation
• The effectiveness of using mindfulness practices in the classroom for student well-being.
• The effectiveness of personalized learning strategies
• The effectiveness of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and anxiety in students
• The impact of teacher communication styles on student engagement
• The relationship between bilingual education and cognitive development
• The effectiveness of using virtual simulations in science education
• The impact of school start times on student performance and well-being
• The effectiveness of using art in language arts education
• The impact of teacher-student race matching on student motivation and achievement
• The relationship between school culture and student mental health
• The effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in social studies education
• The impact of peer mentoring on student success in college
• The relationship between teacher burnout and student behavior
• The effectiveness of using manipulatives in science education
• The effectiveness of using gamification in math education
• The impact of teacher-student gender matching on student attitudes towards STEM subjects
• The relationship between student engagement and academic performance
• The effectiveness of using social media in language learning
• The relationship between school climate and parent involvement
• The effectiveness of using technology in physical education
• The effectiveness of using multimedia in history education
• The impact of teacher motivation on student engagement and achievement
• The relationship between school culture and parent satisfaction
• The impact of teacher feedback on student motivation and self-regulation
• The relationship between school climate and student attitudes towards diversity
• The effectiveness of using blended learning in literacy education
• The impact of teacher-student relationships on college success
• The effectiveness of using digital portfolios for assessment
• The impact of teacher diversity on school culture and climate
• The relationship between school leadership and teacher professional development
• The effectiveness of using inquiry-based learning in art education
• The impact of teacher-student personality matching on academic achievement
• The relationship between school climate and student creativity
• The effectiveness of using coding in math education
• The impact of teacher mentoring on new teacher retention
• The relationship between school culture and student motivation
• The effectiveness of using peer feedback in writing instruction
• The impact of teacher diversity on student attitudes towards diversity
• The relationship between school culture and student resilience
• The effectiveness of using case-based learning in business education
• The impact of teacher-student trust on student engagement and academic achievement.

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110+ Exceptional Education Research Topics Ideas

Topics for education research usually comprise school research topics, research problems in education, qualitative research topics in education, and concept paper topics about education to mention a few.

If you’re looking for research titles about education,  you’re reading the right post! This article contains 110 of the best education research topics that will come in handy when you need to choose one for your research. From sample research topics in education, to research titles examples for high school students about education – we have it all.

Educational Research Topics

Research title examples for college students, quantitative research titles about education, topics related to education for thesis, research titles about school issues, ph.d. research titles in education, elementary education research topics, research title examples about online class, research titles about modular learning, examples of research questions in education, special education research titles.

The best research titles about education must be done through the detailed process of exploring previous works and improving personal knowledge.

Here are some good research topics in education to consider.

What Are Good Research Topics Related to Education?

• The role of Covid-19 in reinvigorating online learning
• The growth of cognitive abilities through leisure experiences
• The merits of group study in education
• Merits and demerits of traditional learning methods
• The impact of homework on traditional and modern education
• Student underdevelopment as a result of larger class volumes
• Advantages of digital textbooks in learning
• The struggle of older generations in computer education
• The standards of learning  in the various academic levels
• Bullying and its effects on educational and mental health
• Exceptional education tutors: Is the need for higher pay justifiable?

The following examples of research titles about education for college students are ideal for a project that will take a long duration to complete. Here are some education topics for research that you can consider for your degree.

• Modern classroom difficulties of students and teachers
• Strategies to reform the learning difficulties within schools
• The rising cost of tuition and its burden on middle-class parents
• The concept of creativity among public schools and how it can be harnessed
• Major difficulties experienced in academic staff training
• Evaluating the learning cultures of college students
• Use of scientific development techniques in student learning
• Research of skill development in high school and college students
• Modern grading methods in underdeveloped institutions
• Dissertations and the difficulties surrounding their completion
• Integration of new gender categories in personalized learning

These research topics about education require a direct quantitative analysis and study of major ideas and arguments. They often contain general statistics and figures to back up regular research. Some of such research topics in education include:

• The relationship between poor education and increased academic fees
• Creating a social link between homeschool and traditional schoolgoers
• The relationship between teacher satisfaction and student performance
• The divide between public and private school performance
• The merits of parental involvement in students’ cognitive growth.
• A study on child welfare and its impact on educational development
• The relationship between academic performance and economic growth
• Urbanization in rural areas and its contribution to institutional growth
• The relationship between students and professors in dissertation writing
• The link between debt accumulation and student loans
• Boarding schools and regular schools: The role these two school types play in cognitive development

Educational-related topics used for a thesis normally require a wide aspect of study and enough educational materials.  Here are some education research topics you can use for write my thesis .

• The difficulties of bilingual education in private universities
• Homework and its impact on learning processes in college education
• Dissertation topic selection: Key aspects and research obligations
• Social media research topics and their educational functions
• A detailed educational review of student learning via virtual reality techniques
• Ethnicities in universities and their participation in group activities
• The modern approach to self-studying for college students
• Developing time management skills in modern education
• Guidelines for teacher development in advanced educational institutions
• The need for religious education in boarding schools
• A measure of cognitive development using digital learning methods

A research title about school issues focuses on activities surrounding the school environment and its effects on students, teachers, parents, and education in general. Below are some sample research titles in education, relating to school issues.

• Learning English in bilingual schools
• A study of teachers’ role as parent figures on school grounds
• Addressing the increased use of illegal substances and their effects in schools
• The benefits of after-class activities for foreign students
• Assessing student and teacher relationships
• A study of the best methods to implement safety rules in school
• Major obstacles in meeting school schedules using boarding students as a case study
• The need for counseling in public and private schools: Which is greater?
• Academic volunteering in understaffed public schools
• Modern techniques for curbing school violence among college students
• The advantages and disadvantages of teacher unions in schools

As you create your proposed list of research topics in education, consider scientific journals for referencing purposes. Here are some Ph.D. research titles for education.

• The modern methods of academic research writing
• The role of colleges in advanced mental care
• The merits and demerits of Ph.D. studies in Europe and Africa
• Interpersonal relationships between students and professors in advanced institutions
• A review of community colleges: merits and demerits
• Assessing racism in academic ethnic minorities
• The psychological changes of students in higher education
• The questionable standards of student loan provisions
• The merits of personalized teaching techniques in colleges
• The wage gap between private and public university teachers
• Teacher responsibilities in private universities versus public universities

The research topics in elementary education in 2023 are very different from the elementary education research topics from five or ten years ago. This creates interesting grounds for different research titles for elementary education.

Here are some elementary education title research ideas.

• Assessing quick computer literacy among elementary school pupils.
• The role of video games in childhood brain development
• Male vs female role models in early education periods
• The advantages of digital textbooks in elementary schools
• The impact of modern curriculums on elementary education
• Lack of proper school grooming is a cause of violence.
• Should elementary school children be taught about LGBTQ?
• A review of the need for sexual education in elementary schools
• The effects of emotional dependence in early childhood learners.
• The need for constant technology supervision of elementary school students
• Advantages of computer-guided education in elementary schools

Here are some research title examples for students taking online classes.

• The academic difficulties experienced by online students.
• A study of decreased attention in online classes
• The upsides and downsides of online education
• The rising fees of online and traditional education in universities
• A detailed study on the necessity of college internships
• The need to provide college scholarships based on environmental achievements
• How online education terminates university fraternities and sororities.
• The role of academic supervisors in career selection
• Why interactive assignments improved learning capabilities during the pandemic
• Merits of education in online learning environments
• Why online lessons are the least effective for some college students

The modular learning approach focuses primarily on learning outcomes. Here are some examples of research titles about modular learning.

• Modular learning and the role of teachers in its execution
• Teaching techniques of religious institutions
• Potential risks of accelerated learning
• Modular learning on students’ future performances
• The general overview of modular learning amongst students
• The modern Advantages and disadvantages of inclusive classes
• Observing student developments in modular learning
• Music therapy for fostering modular learning techniques
• The creation of a personalized curriculum for students.
• Applications of modular learning both in home-schooling?
• The benefits of modular learning towards creating a more holistic educational system

These research title examples about education answer important questions and they can also be argumentative essay topics .

Here are some titles of research about education questions.

• What impacts do learning approaches provide for students?
• How can schools manage their increasing gender differences?
• What fosters the provision of learning needs?
• What are the best educational recruitment methods?
• How can cognitive development improve education?
• How can you assess the moral growth of institutions?
• What are the primary causes of educational differences in geographical locations?
• How can institutions address increasing mental health needs?
• Why is early intervention essential in students with mental health setbacks?
• What are the characteristics of mental health deterioration among students?
• What techniques are acceptable in regulating the violence of students in institutions

Some of the research title examples about education include:

• How do schools create more personalized learning methods?
• Evaluating mental health setbacks during education
• The impact of modern technology on special education
• The cognitive improvements via specialized learning in dyslexic children
• The psychological link between dyslexia and bullying in high school
• Impact of social isolation in special education classes
• The difficulties in providing specialized learning environments
• A study of orphan students with disabilities and their aptitudes for learning
• How special classes improve the self-esteem of disabled students.
• How to use modern teaching techniques in unique learning environments.
• A study of the application of digital games to autistic learning

Final words about education research topics

We have provided some reliable examples of a research topic about education you can use for write my thesis . You can use these research titles in education to cultivate your ideas, create inspiration, or for online research. Remember always to select a topic that you’re naturally passionate about and do diligent research, and reach out to our professional writing services if you need any help.

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Top Education Research Topics and Ideas for Students: Find Inspiration for Your Paper

Updated 11 Mar 2024

Education research plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of teaching and learning. However, for students, finding a compelling research topic can be a daunting task. That's why we're here to help! In this article, we have curated a collection of the latest education research topics and ideas to inspire you. From exploring how to best utilize technology in classrooms, to evaluating how certain teaching methods can improve learning outcomes, there is a wide range of topics that can be investigated. If you're seeking further support, don't hesitate to reach out and say, " Do my research paper !" We are here to simplify the process and help you excel in your academic pursuits. So let's delve into the exciting world of education research together!

List of education research paper topics

Education research paper topics refer to a wide range of subjects that students can explore in the field of education. Here is a list of topics for your inspiration:

• Impact of Online Learning on Student Engagement and Academic Performance
• Effectiveness of Project-Based Learning in Promoting Critical Thinking Skills
• Socioeconomic Status and Access to Quality Education
• Virtual and Augmented Reality in Enhancing the Learning Experience
• Role of Teacher Expectations in Shaping Student Outcomes
• Peer Mentoring Programs in Supporting Student Success
• Classroom Design and Student Learning Outcomes
• Technology-Assisted Language Learning in Second Language Acquisition
• Differentiated Instruction in Meeting Diverse Student Needs
• Cultural Competence in Teacher Effectiveness and Student Achievement
• Teacher-Student Relationships and Student Motivation
• Mindfulness Practices in Promoting Student Well-Being and Academic Achievement
• Teacher Professional Development and Instructional Quality
• Community Partnerships in Improving Educational Opportunities and Outcomes
• Inquiry-Based Learning in Promoting Scientific Literacy
• Experiential Learning Methods
• Parental Involvement and Student Success
• Early Childhood Education Outcomes
• Class Size and Academic Performance
• Motivation and Academic Performance
• School Climate and Academic Performance
• Collaborative Learning Approaches
• Cultural Competence and Academic Achievement
• Early Literacy Instruction and Future Reading Success
• Gender Disparities in Stem Academic Performance

Higher education research paper topics

This subtopic explores the impact of higher education on career prospects, the cost and affordability of college, the effectiveness of online learning, and the benefits of international study programs. Conducting research on these topics can lead to a better understanding of higher education and help achieve positive outcomes.

• Examining the Relationship between Online Learning and Student
• Engagement and Academic Performance in Higher Education
• The Effectiveness of Technology in Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education
• Mental Health Consequences of Student Loan Debt: A Study
• Cultural Backgrounds and Their Influence on Students' Academic Experiences and Outcomes in Higher Education
• Evaluating the Impact of Mindfulness-Based Programs on Reducing Stress and Enhancing Academic Performance in College Students
• Assessing the Role of Faculty Diversity in Improving Student Learning and Success in Higher Education
• Student Engagement and Retention Rates in Higher Education: A Correlation Analysis
• The Preparedness of Competency-Based Education Programs for the Workforce
• The Continuing Impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education and Its Future Prospects
• The Contribution of Student Support Services to Academic Success and Graduation Rates in Higher Education

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Special education research topics

• Assistive Technology for Academic Success
• Inclusive Education Best Practices
• Parent Involvement for Disability Outcomes
• Differentiated Instruction for Disabled Students
• Early Intervention for Young Learners
• Positive Behavior Interventions for Disabilities
• Co-teaching Models for Disabled Students
• Teacher Attitudes Towards Disabilities
• Peer Mentoring for Emotional Development
• Vocational Training for Disabled Employment
• Individualized Education Programs and Outcomes
• Reading Interventions for Learning Disabilities
• Social Skills Training for Disabilities
• Paraeducators’ Support for Disabled Students
• Self-Determination for Independent Living Skills
• Peer Support Groups for Emotional Outcomes
• Assistive Tech for Extracurricular Activities
• Mindfulness Interventions for Self-Regulation
• Collaborative Problem-Solving for Disabilities
• Physical Activity for Emotional Well-Being
• Inclusive Education for Students with special needs

Educational research topics on child development

This topic covers a broad range of research topics, including the effects of nature and nurture on child development, the impact of early childhood experiences on later development, the role of play in learning, and the influence of family and cultural factors on child development.

• Play and Learning in Early Childhood Development
• Mindfulness and Its Role in Promoting Child Development
• Nature Exposure and Children’s Cognitive Development
• Art Education for Child Development
• Family Dynamics Impact on Child Development
• The Effect of Trauma on Child Development
• Bilingualism and Cognitive Development in Children
• Creativity for Early Childhood Development
• Socioeconomic Status and Child Development
• Peer Mentoring for Child Development
• How Motor Skills Affect Children’s Academic Success?
• The Impact of Parent-Child Communication on Child Development
• Attachment and Self-Esteem Development in Children
• The Influence of Childcare Settings on Child Development
• Outdoor Play’s Relationship to Child Development
• Social Media and Adolescent Development
• Importance of Empathy for Child Development
• Culture and Gender Identity Development in Children
• The Importance of Resilience for Child Development
• Role of Executive Functioning in Social Skills Development

Educational research topics for college students

• Effects of Technology on Student Learning Outcomes in Higher Education
• A Comparative Study on Student Engagement and Achievement in Online Versus Traditional Classroom Instruction
• Teacher Feedback and Its Impact on Student Performance
• Parent Involvement and Its Influence on Student Academic Achievement
• Correlational Study on Sleep Habits and Academic Performance Among College Students
• Comparison of Different Study Techniques and Strategies for College Students
• Cultural Diversity in the Classroom and Its Effects on Student Learning
• Investigating the Relationship Between Student Motivation and Academic Performance
• Teaching Methodologies and Student Achievement in Stem Fields
• Impact of Teacher Expectations on Student Academic Achievement
• Comparative Study on Gender and Academic Performance in Different Subject Areas
• Extracurricular Activities and Academic Achievement: Examining the Relationship
• Effects of Peer-To-Peer Learning on Student Academic Performance
• The Impact of College Entrance Exams on Student Academic Performance
• Exploring the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Academic Performance Among College Students
• A Comparative Study on the Impact of Active Versus Passive Learning Approaches on Student Academic Performance
• Examining the Impact of Teacher Training on Student Academic Achievement
• The Effects of Teacher Burnout on Student Academic Achievement
• Different Types of Assessments and Their Effects on Student Academic Performance
• The Relationship Between College Students’ Study Habits and Academic Performance

Latest research topics in education

• How Can Technology Be Used to Enhance Student Learning in the Classroom?
• What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Homeschooling as a Form of Education?
• How Does the Use of Social Media Affect Student Engagement and Academic Performance?
• What Is the Impact of Teacher-Student Relationships on Student Motivation and Achievement?
• How Can Cultural Diversity Be Effectively Incorporated Into the Classroom to Promote Learning and Understanding?
• What Are the Best Strategies for Promoting Effective Reading Skills in Students of All Ages?
• How Can Project-Based Learning Be Used to Promote Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills in Students?
• What Are the Most Effective Ways to Promote Student Creativity and Innovation in the Classroom?
• How Does Teacher Feedback and Assessment Impact Student Learning and Academic Success?
• What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning in Higher Education?
• How Can Differentiated Instruction Be Used to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners in the Classroom?
• What Is the Impact of Parental Involvement on Student Academic Achievement?
• How Can Schools Promote Positive Mental Health and Well-Being in Students?
• What Is the Role of Experiential Learning in Promoting Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes?
• What Are the Best Strategies for Promoting Effective Writing Skills in Students of All Ages?
• How Can Schools Effectively Address and Prevent Bullying and Cyberbullying?
• What Is the Impact of Student-Teacher Ratio on Student Academic Achievement?
• How Can Schools Promote Effective Collaboration and Teamwork Skills in Students?
• What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Competency-Based Education in Higher Education?
• How Can Schools Effectively Support and Accommodate Students With Disabilities?

Topics for action research in education

Discover how to make a positive difference in the world of education through innovative and effective action research. Learn about topics for action research that are relevant to current educational practices and trends. Get started on making your mark through thoughtful exploration of educational topics for action research!

• The Impact of Project-Based Learning on Student Achievement
• Strategies to Increase Student Engagement Through Technology Integration
• Methods to Improve Reading Comprehension in Elementary School Students
• Addressing Absenteeism Among High School Students
• Effective Strategies for Promoting Collaborative Learning
• Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Middle School Students
• Improving Teacher-Student Relationships to Enhance Student Learning
• Mindfulness Practices to Reduce Student Anxiety
• Examining the Effectiveness of Differentiated Instruction on Student Learning Outcomes
• Investigating the Effects of Physical Activity on Academic Achievement
• Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices to Meet the Needs of Diverse Students
• Investigating the Effects of Class Size on Student Achievement
• Strategies to Improve Parent Involvement in the Education Process to Support Student Success
• Examining the Effects of Music Education on Academic Achievement
• Effective Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners
• Investigating the Effects of School Uniforms on Student Behavior
• Promoting Positive Behavior in the Classroom Through Positive Reinforcement
• Addressing Academic Stress Among High School Students
• Strategies to Address Student Learning Gaps Caused by Pandemic-Related Disruptions
• The Impact of Teacher Professional Development on Student Learning Outcomes

Provocative education research topics

Research into education is groundbreaking, with new discoveries and ideas being created every day. This list of provocative research topics focuses on the most timely and important questions in education today. From educational technology to teaching methods and beyond, these questions are sure to spark intriguing conversations and novel insights.

• How Does the Use of Technology in the Classroom Impact Student Learning Outcomes?
• To What Extent Does Parental Involvement Affect Academic Performance?
• In What Ways Does Teacher Diversity Influence Student Success?
• What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Multilingual Education in the Classroom?
• How Does Social Media Use Affect Student Learning and Academic Achievement?
• What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of Standardized Testing in Measuring Student Learning?
• What Is the Relationship Between Classroom Environment and Academic Achievement?
• How Does Project-Based Learning Develop Critical Thinking Skills in Students?
• What Is the Correlation Between Mental Health and Academic Performance?
• How Effective Is Differentiated Instruction in Promoting Student Engagement?
• What Is the Impact of Professional Development on Teacher Efficacy and Student Learning Outcomes?
• How Does Collaborative Learning Impact Student Academic Achievement?
• What Is the Role of School Culture in Promoting Academic Success?
• How Can Education Promote Equity and Social Justice in the Classroom?
• How Does Online Learning Compare to Traditional Classroom Learning in Developing Student Competencies?
• What Is the Correlation Between Parenting Styles and Student Academic Success?
• How Do Gender and Cultural Differences Impact Learning Styles and Academic Achievement?
• What Is the Relationship Between Extracurricular Activities and Academic Success?
• How Effective Is Personalized Learning in Fostering Student Motivation and Engagement?
• What Is the Long-Term Impact of Early Childhood Education on Academic Achievement and Success?

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How to choose a good topic on education subject

Choosing a good topic on education is essential for engaging your audience and making an impact. To do this successfully, consider the following steps:

• Determine your passions: contemplate the facets of education that captivate and inspire you the most.
• Know your audience: be mindful of the readers or viewers of your work, and consider their interests and preferences.
• Explore contemporary trends and concerns: investigate recent developments, tendencies, technologies, approaches, policies, and research within education that are currently influencing the field.
• Uncover knowledge voids: pinpoint areas within education where research or comprehension is lacking, and choose a subject that addresses these deficiencies while contributing to the broader field.
• Consult with experts: engage with teachers, professors, or other industry professionals to gather insights on potential subjects - they may even provide helpful recommendations or direct you to valuable resources!

Choosing the right research topic is vital for students in the field of education. Staying informed about current trends and developments is key. This article provides a diverse list of top education research paper topics, allowing students to select an intriguing idea that aligns with their interests and goals. To save time and effort, you can choose to pay for papers , guaranteeing expertly crafted research papers while you concentrate on your academic goals.

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Selecting a Research Topic: Overview

• Refine your topic
• Background information & facts
• Writing help

Here are some resources to refer to when selecting a topic and preparing to write a paper:

• MIT Writing and Communication Center "Providing free professional advice about all types of writing and speaking to all members of the MIT community."
• Search Our Collections Find books about writing. Search by subject for: english language grammar; report writing handbooks; technical writing handbooks
• Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation Online version of the book that provides examples and tips on grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and other writing rules.
• Select a topic

Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips:

• Choose a topic that you are interested in! The research process is more relevant if you care about your topic.
• If your topic is too broad, you will find too much information and not be able to focus.
• Background reading can help you choose and limit the scope of your topic. 
• Review the guidelines on topic selection outlined in your assignment.  Ask your professor or TA for suggestions.
• Refer to lecture notes and required texts to refresh your knowledge of the course and assignment.
• Talk about research ideas with a friend.  S/he may be able to help focus your topic by discussing issues that didn't occur to you at first.
• WHY did you choose the topic?  What interests you about it?  Do you have an opinion about the issues involved?
• WHO are the information providers on this topic?  Who might publish information about it?  Who is affected by the topic?  Do you know of organizations or institutions affiliated with the topic?
• WHAT are the major questions for this topic?  Is there a debate about the topic?  Are there a range of issues and viewpoints to consider?
• WHERE is your topic important: at the local, national or international level?  Are there specific places affected by the topic?
• WHEN is/was your topic important?  Is it a current event or an historical issue?  Do you want to compare your topic by time periods?

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• Information Navigator home
• Sources for facts - general
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• Last Updated: Jul 30, 2021 2:50 PM
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How to Find a Topic for Your Research Paper

Last Updated: September 12, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Matthew Snipp, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . C. Matthew Snipp is the Burnet C. and Mildred Finley Wohlford Professor of Humanities and Sciences in the Department of Sociology at Stanford University. He is also the Director for the Institute for Research in the Social Science’s Secure Data Center. He has been a Research Fellow at the U.S. Bureau of the Census and a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences. He has published 3 books and over 70 articles and book chapters on demography, economic development, poverty and unemployment. He is also currently serving on the National Institute of Child Health and Development’s Population Science Subcommittee. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. This article has been viewed 98,667 times.

Sometimes, finding a topic for a research paper can be the most challenging part of the whole process. When you're looking out at a field brimming with possibilities, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Lucky for you, we here at wikiHow have come up with a list of ways to pick that topic that will take you from the more vague brainstorming all the way to your specific, perfectly focused research question and thesis.

Review your course materials.

• If your textbook has discussion questions at the end of each chapter, these can be great to comb through for potential research paper topic ideas.
• Look at any recommended reading your instructor has suggested—you might find ideas there as well.

Search hot issues in your field of study.

• Think about current events that touch on your field of study as well. For example, if you're writing a research paper for a sociology class, you might want to write something related to race in America or the Black Lives Matter movement.
• Other instructors in the same department or field might also have ideas for you. Don't be afraid to stop in during their office hours and talk or send them an email, even if you've never had them for a class.

Go for a walk to get your brain going.

• If you want to walk with a friend and discuss topic ideas as you walk, that can help too. Sometimes, you'll come up with new things when you can bounce your ideas off someone else.

Ask your family or friends for input.

• People who aren't really familiar with the general subject you're researching can be helpful too! Because they aren't making many assumptions, they might bring up something you'd overlooked or not thought about before.

Free-write on topic ideas to find your passion.

• Having a personal interest in the topic will keep you from getting bored. You'll do better research—and write a better paper—if you're excited about the topic itself.

Read background information on your favorites.

• Ideally, based on your background research, you'll be able to choose one of the topics that interests you the most. If you still can't narrow it down, keep reading!
• Even though you wouldn't want to use them as sources for your actual paper, sources like Wikipedia can be excellent for getting background information about a topic.

Identify important words to use as keywords.

• For example, if you've chosen environmental regulations as a topic, you might also include keywords such as "conservation," "pollution," and "nature."

Do preliminary research using your keywords.

• Your results might also suggest other keywords you can search to find more sources. Searching for specific terminology used in articles you find often leads to other articles.
• Check the bibliography of any papers you find to pick up some other sources you might be able to use.

Limit a broad topic.

• For example, suppose you decided to look at race relations in the US during the Trump administration. If you got too many results, you might narrow your results to a single US city or state.
• Keep in mind how long your research paper will ultimately be. For example, if there's an entire book written on a topic you want to write a 20-page research paper on, it's probably too broad.

Expand a topic that's too narrow.

• For example, suppose you wanted to research the impact of a particular environmental law on your hometown, but when you did a search, you didn't get any quality results. You might expand your search to encompass the entire state or region, rather than just your hometown.

Do more in-depth research to fine-tune your topic.

• For example, you might do an initial search and get hundreds of results back and decide your topic is too broad. Then, when you limit it, you get next to nothing and figure out you've narrowed it too much, so you have to broaden it a little bit again.
• Stay flexible and keep going until you've found that happy medium that you think will work for your paper.

Formulate the question you'll answer in your paper.

• For example, your research question might be something like "How did environmental regulations affect the living conditions of people living near paper mills?" This question covers "who" (people living near paper mills), "what" (living conditions), "where" (near paper mills), and "why" (environmental regulations).

Build a list of potential sources.

• At this point, your list is still a "working" list. You won't necessarily use all the sources you find in your actual paper.
• Building a working list of sources is also helpful if you want to use a source and can't immediately get access to it. If you have to get it through your professor or request it from another library, you have time to do so.

Develop your thesis.

• For example, suppose your research question is "How did environmental regulations affect the living conditions of people living near paper mills?" Your thesis might be something like: "Environmental regulations improved living conditions for people living around paper mills."
• As another example, suppose your research question is "Why did hate crimes spike in the US from 2017 to 2020?" Your thesis might be: "A permissive attitude towards racial supremacy caused a spike in hate crimes in the US from 2017 to 2020."
• Keep in mind, you don't have to prove that your thesis is correct. Proving that your thesis was wrong can make for an even more compelling research paper, especially if your thesis follows conventional wisdom.

Expert Q&A

• If you've been given a list of topics but you come up with something different that you want to do, don't be afraid to talk to your instructor about it! The worst that will happen is that they'll make you choose something from the list instead. [11] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185905
• ↑ https://www.cnbc.com/2018/05/08/how-steve-jobs-odd-habit-can-help-you-brainstorm-ideas.html
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44525
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44524
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/common_writing_assignments/research_papers/choosing_a_topic.html

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Ways to Find New Research Topics

The ability to find new research topics is an essential skill that should be obtained before you achieve your doctoral degree. It is, however, universally acknowledged that finding a new topic for your research is not easy. Rarely, professors may ask whether you are interested in some specific topics. If yes, you may be assigned to those specific topics and not need to find your dissertation topic on your own. The majority of the time, on the other hand, professors require you to develop some topics you can work on and then work with you to select one of the topics as your dissertation topic. Below are some tips that will help you as you develop new research topics.

1. Seek out collaborators from different disciplinary backgrounds

[ Image Description : A group of five people gathered around a round table all working together on a project.]

When you have no ideas about research topics in your own discipline, you can open your mind to other research fields and look for cross-functional collaboration. For example, for scientific students, you may apply your existing methods to other fields; while for education students, you may look for some scientific methods to prove that your suggestions are reasonable and have the capacity to be implemented in society.

2. Participate in related seminars

Departments offer regular seminars each quarter. Our campus also offers select workshops open to the whole campus. Please do not limit yourself to listening to seminars in your own professional department. Different fields sometimes bring you more opportunities for building on innovative ideas. Try to participate in as many seminars as you can, not only to find new ideas but also to stay ahead of advanced technologies. Through seminars, you can have discussions with presenters about their projects. Through these discussions, you may find new ideas about how to develop your own interesting topics. You may even notice that some of the projects presented may have limitations; then it's your turn to build a new model to overcome those limitations.

[I mage Description : A speaker stands in front of a group of students to give a lecture.]

3. Reading to equip yourself with new topics and advanced technologies

Read at least two to three papers per week. If that sounds like a lot, don't worry! you don’t need to read every paper carefully. Quickly scan the paper the first time you go through it. If you can find points you are interested in, then you spend more time reading the paper more closely. After a second reading, you should fully understand how the author studies their topic and if there any improvements you can make based on the paper. If there are improvements you can create or you can use the methods in different problems, then you can try to develop your research based on the paper.

4. Identify a general topic you are interested in or ideas you already have

Good projects are done in a replicable or sequenced way. If you have no ideas at all, you can recall the courses or projects you were interested in when you were an undergraduate or early graduate student. Then try to improve or enrich your new research topic based on your existing projects. For example, when you were an undergraduate, the methods you applied to a project may have had limitations that you can now either improve on or develop a new algorithm to overcome. Additionally, you may even be able to apply your existing methods to some young fields.

5. Develop your research topic based on social phenomenon

[ Image Description : A hillside on fire.]

Although the public often emphasizes the benefits of a college degree for graduates themselves, the benefits to society are just as important. You may investigate social phenomena and through research find a new way to improve societal problems. For example, recently there have been many fires in the mountain spread all over California. Various projects can be done drawing on this situation. For instance, biological scientists can investigate how these fires affect wildlife. Statisticians can work on how to predict and avoid this tragedy in the future. Social workers can work on how to protect people’s lives during this tragedy.

• How to Choose a PhD Research Topic
• Finding a PhD

Introduction

Whilst there are plenty of resources available to help prospective PhD students find doctoral programmes, deciding on a research topic is a process students often find more difficult.

Some advertised PhD programmes have predefined titles, so the exact topic is decided already. Generally, these programmes exist mainly in STEM, though other fields also have them. Funded projects are more likely to have defined titles, and structured aims and objectives.

Self funded projects, and those in fields such as arts and humanities, are less likely to have defined titles. The flexibility of topic selection means more scope exists for applicants to propose research ideas and suit the topic of research to their interests.

A middle ground also exists where Universities advertise funded PhD programmes in subjects without a defined scope, for example: “PhD Studentship in Biomechanics”. The applicant can then liaise with the project supervisor to choose a particular title such as “A study of fatigue and impact resistance of biodegradable knee implants”.

If a predefined programme is not right for you, then you need to propose your own research topic. There are several factors to consider when choosing a good research topic, which will be outlined in this article.

How to Choose a Research Topic

Our first piece of advice is to PhD candidates is to stop thinking about ‘finding’ a research topic, as it is unlikely that you will. Instead, think about developing a research topic (from research and conversations with advisors).

Consider several ideas and critically appraise them:

• You must be able to explain to others why your chosen topic is worth studying.
• You must be genuinely interested in the subject area.
• You must be competent and equipped to answer the research question.
• You must set achievable and measurable aims and objectives.
• You need to be able to achieve your objectives within a given timeframe.
• Your research question must be original and contribute to the field of study.

We have outlined the key considerations you should use when developing possible topics. We explore these below:

Focus on your interests and career aspirations

It is important to choose a topic of research that you are genuinely interested in. The decision you make will shape the rest of your career. Remember, a full-time programme lasts 3-4 years, and there will be unforeseen challenges during this time. If you are not passionate about the study, you will struggle to find motivation during these difficult periods.

You should also look to your academic and professional background. If there are any modules you undertook as part of your Undergraduate/Master degree that you particularly enjoyed or excelled in? These could form part of your PhD research topic. Similarly, if you have professional work experience, this could lead to you asking questions which can only be answered through research.

When deciding on a PhD research topic you should always consider your long-term career aspirations. For example, as a physicist, if you wish to become an astrophysicist, a research project studying black holes would be more relevant to you than a research project studying nuclear fission.

Read dissertations and published journals

Reading dissertations and published journals is a great way to identify potential PhD topics. When reviewing existing research ask yourself:

• What has been done and what do existing results show?
• What did previous projects involve (e.g. lab-work or fieldwork)?
• How often are papers published in the field?
• Are your research ideas original?
• Is there value in your research question?
• Could I expand on or put my own spin on this research?

Reading dissertations will also give you an insight into the practical aspects of doctoral study, such as what methodology the author used, how much data analysis was required and how was information presented.

You can also think of this process as a miniature literature review . You are searching for gaps in knowledge and developing a PhD project to address them. Focus on recent publications (e.g. in the last five years). In particular, the literature review of recent publications will give an excellent summary of the state of existing knowledge, and what research questions remain unanswered.

If you have the opportunity to attend an academic conference, go for it! This is often an excellent way to find out current theories in the industry and the research direction. This knowledge could reveal a possible research idea or topic for further study.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Discuss research topic ideas with a PhD supervisor

Discuss your research topic ideas with a supervisor. This could be your current undergraduate/masters supervisor, or potential supervisors of advertised PhD programmes at different institutions. Come to these meetings prepared with initial PhD topic ideas, and your findings from reading published journals. PhD supervisors will be more receptive to your ideas if you can demonstrate you have thought about them and are committed to your research.

You should discuss your research interests, what you have found through reading publications, and what you are proposing to research. Supervisors who have expertise in your chosen field will have insight into the gaps in knowledge that exist, what is being done to address them, and if there is any overlap between your proposed research ideas and ongoing research projects.

Talking to an expert in the field can shape your research topic to something more tangible, which has clear aims and objectives. It can also find potential shortfalls of your PhD ideas.

It is important to remember, however, that although it is good to develop your research topic based on feedback, you should not let the supervisor decide a topic for you. An interesting topic for a supervisor may not be interesting to you, and a supervisor is more likely to advise on a topic title which lends itself to a career in academia.

Another tip is to talk to a PhD student or researcher who is involved in a similar research project. Alternatively, you can usually find a relevant research group within your University to talk to. They can explain in more detail their experiences and suggest what your PhD programme could involve with respect to daily routines and challenges.

Look at advertised PhD Programmes

Use our Search tool , or look on University PhD listing pages to identify advertised PhD programmes for ideas.

• What kind of PhD research topics are available?
• Are these similar to your ideas?
• Are you interested in any of these topics?
• What do these programmes entail?

The popularity of similar PhD programmes to your proposed topic is a good indicator that universities see value in the research area. The final bullet point is perhaps the most valuable takeaway from looking at advertised listings. Review what similar programmes involve, and whether this is something you would like to do. If so, a similar research topic would allow you to do this.

Writing a Research Proposal

As part of the PhD application process , you may be asked to summarise your proposed research topic in a research proposal. This is a document which summarises your intended research and will include the title of your proposed project, an Abstract, Background and Rationale, Research Aims and Objectives, Research Methodology, Timetable, and a Bibliography. If you are required to submit this document then read our guidance on how to write a research proposal for your PhD application.

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Reference management. Clean and simple.

The top list of academic search engines

1. Google Scholar

4. science.gov, 5. semantic scholar, 6. baidu scholar, get the most out of academic search engines, frequently asked questions about academic search engines, related articles.

Academic search engines have become the number one resource to turn to in order to find research papers and other scholarly sources. While classic academic databases like Web of Science and Scopus are locked behind paywalls, Google Scholar and others can be accessed free of charge. In order to help you get your research done fast, we have compiled the top list of free academic search engines.

Google Scholar is the clear number one when it comes to academic search engines. It's the power of Google searches applied to research papers and patents. It not only lets you find research papers for all academic disciplines for free but also often provides links to full-text PDF files.

• Coverage: approx. 200 million articles
• Abstracts: only a snippet of the abstract is available
• Related articles: ✔
• References: ✔
• Cited by: ✔
• Links to full text: ✔
• Export formats: APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, Vancouver, RIS, BibTeX

BASE is hosted at Bielefeld University in Germany. That is also where its name stems from (Bielefeld Academic Search Engine).

• Coverage: approx. 136 million articles (contains duplicates)
• Abstracts: ✔
• Related articles: ✘
• References: ✘
• Cited by: ✘
• Export formats: RIS, BibTeX

CORE is an academic search engine dedicated to open-access research papers. For each search result, a link to the full-text PDF or full-text web page is provided.

• Coverage: approx. 136 million articles
• Links to full text: ✔ (all articles in CORE are open access)
• Export formats: BibTeX

Science.gov is a fantastic resource as it bundles and offers free access to search results from more than 15 U.S. federal agencies. There is no need anymore to query all those resources separately!

• Coverage: approx. 200 million articles and reports
• Links to full text: ✔ (available for some databases)
• Export formats: APA, MLA, RIS, BibTeX (available for some databases)

Semantic Scholar is the new kid on the block. Its mission is to provide more relevant and impactful search results using AI-powered algorithms that find hidden connections and links between research topics.

• Coverage: approx. 40 million articles
• Export formats: APA, MLA, Chicago, BibTeX

Although Baidu Scholar's interface is in Chinese, its index contains research papers in English as well as Chinese.

• Coverage: no detailed statistics available, approx. 100 million articles
• Abstracts: only snippets of the abstract are available
• Export formats: APA, MLA, RIS, BibTeX

RefSeek searches more than one billion documents from academic and organizational websites. Its clean interface makes it especially easy to use for students and new researchers.

• Coverage: no detailed statistics available, approx. 1 billion documents
• Abstracts: only snippets of the article are available
• Export formats: not available

Consider using a reference manager like Paperpile to save, organize, and cite your references. Paperpile integrates with Google Scholar and many popular databases, so you can save references and PDFs directly to your library using the Paperpile buttons:

Google Scholar is an academic search engine, and it is the clear number one when it comes to academic search engines. It's the power of Google searches applied to research papers and patents. It not only let's you find research papers for all academic disciplines for free, but also often provides links to full text PDF file.

Semantic Scholar is a free, AI-powered research tool for scientific literature developed at the Allen Institute for AI. Sematic Scholar was publicly released in 2015 and uses advances in natural language processing to provide summaries for scholarly papers.

BASE , as its name suggest is an academic search engine. It is hosted at Bielefeld University in Germany and that's where it name stems from (Bielefeld Academic Search Engine).

CORE is an academic search engine dedicated to open access research papers. For each search result a link to the full text PDF or full text web page is provided.

Science.gov is a fantastic resource as it bundles and offers free access to search results from more than 15 U.S. federal agencies. There is no need any more to query all those resources separately!

• Learning how to find, evaluate, and use resources to explore a topic in depth

Series Editor : Michael Theall, Youngstown State University Authors : Gail MacKay, Indiana University Kokomo; Barbara Millis, University of Nevada-Reno; Rebecca Brent, Education Designs, Inc.

At institutions of higher education across the U.S., information literacy (IL) is being integrated into general education curricula as a specific learning objective. The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) (1) defines information literate students as those who “recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.” As the world moves toward a knowledge-based economy, information literacy becomes a crucial component of preparing students for the lifelong learning that current and future job markets demand.

IDEA Research Report #1 (2) states that, “…It is important to recognize that much of the subject matter content which students learn today will be outdated in 5-10 years after they graduate.” Thus, an emphasis on lifelong learning seems imperative. Canja (3), for example, suggests that “… Lifelong learning has become an economic necessity for national and global productivity. With the decline in birth rates in major developed countries, persons—still active, still healthy—must continue in the workforce, trained and retrained” (p. 27). Ironically, IDEA Research Report #1 also finds that the objectives identified as emphasizing lifelong learning (Learning to find and use resources, and Gave tests/projects that covered most important points) were identified as “Important” or “Essential” in only about 30% of the classes using IDEA. The ACRL (1) notes, “Information literacy forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments, and to all levels of education. It enables learners to master content and extend their investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning.” However, information literacy does not concern itself only with technical resources. Successful students and workers must also be able to affiliate with others and to seek and find expertise among the human resources that are available (4).

Seeking out information resources and then using them to address a question or a problem are engaging activities, and there are several attached benefits. First is recognition of the value of the resources. Next is application of the new information and the construction of new knowledge. Intrinsic motivation results from the realization that learning is taking place and ultimately, these practical and motivational effects promote continued use of the resources, lifelong learning, and facilitates deep learning.

For example, here are key components that characterize a deep, rather than a surface approach to learning. Rhem (5) summarizes them as follows:

Motivational context: We learn best what we feel a need to know. Intrinsic motivation remains inextricably bound to some level of choice and control. Courses that remove these take away the sense of ownership and kill one of the strongest elements in lasting learning.

Learner activity: Deep learning and “doing” travel together. Doing in itself isn’t enough. Faculty must connect activity to the abstract conceptions that make sense of it, but passive mental postures lead to superficial learning.

Interaction with others: As Noel Entwistle put it in a recent email message, “The teacher is not the only source of instruction or inspiration.”

A well-structured knowledge base: This does not just mean presenting new material in an organized way. It also means engaging and reshaping, when necessary, the concepts students bring with them. Deep approaches and learning for understanding are integrative processes. The more fully new concepts can be connected with students’ prior experience and existing knowledge, the more it is they will be impatient with inert facts and eager to achieve their own synthesis (p. 4).

If instructors are to motivate students to acquire the skills of information literacy that will help them to remain lifelong learners, then they need to design research projects and assignments that get students into the knowledge base and engage them in critical thinking activities through active learning and interaction with one another. Through such sequenced assignments, students can learn how to answer relevant questions and to solve challenging problems.

Keep in mind that an important component of finding and using resources to explore topics is evaluating the quality of those resources. In an information-rich world, students must be able to determine if a resource is reliable and valid enough to use in their work. These information literacy skills (and even quantitative literacy skills–see the Teaching Note, “Learning appropriate methods for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting numerical information”) must be taught. See the Teaching Note, “Encouraged students to use multiple resources (e.g. Internet, library holdings, outside experts) to improve understanding,” for more ideas.

Teaching This Objective

The most relevant IDEA instructional method is “encouraged students to use multiple resources to improve understanding.” This Learning Note complements Baron’s with some general guidelines that focus on developing good research projects or assignments to assist with “learning how to find and use resources for answering questions or solving problems” and attempts to help instructors provide students with effective and feasible assignments. With today’s information overload, students need guidance in locating and using appropriate resources for answering questions and solving problems. Students must hone these skills throughout their lives. Academic librarians can serve as an instructor’s best ally.

Other IDEA instructional methods that are important to Objective #9 include items #2 Finding ways to help students answer their own questions, #8 Stimulating intellectual effort, #15 Inspiring students to set and achieve goals, #18 Asking students to help each other understand ideas or concepts, and #19 Assigning work that requires original or creative thinking. These relationships are logical because the nature of investigative activity requires intellectual effort, focused exploration, and creativity, and the connections between problem solving and gathering information and evidence have been well-documented (6). These methods support many of the specific hints described below.

Motivation as a starting point. Locating information for its own sake provides practice, but it fails to engage motivated students in productive work linked to an understood outcome. Feldman suggests that student achievement remains strongly correlated to the perceived outcomes of instruction (7). The relevance of assigned work is also critical to student’s active engagement (8) and a major predictor of student ratings of their teachers (9). Thus, skill development becomes much more productive when there is a clearly understood link between the assigned work and specific learning goals or tangible products. The real-world analog is obvious: people do not search for information unless they have a reason to do so. Because in many teaching-learning situations, teachers expect students to explore issues and topics that may not intrinsically interest them, demonstrating relevance and utility become critical first steps in getting students engaged (See “Related course material to real-life situations” and “Introduced stimulating ideas about the subject”). Allowing students some choice of topic or project can motivate them to take a deeper approach to learning (10).

Sequence the research project or assignment. If instructors want students to learn to find and use resources to tackle stimulating questions and challenging problems through research, they need to design sequenced activities that motivate students and get them into the knowledge base. This can often be accomplished through the individual work that students do either as discrete homework assignments or as smaller parts of an extended research project. What becomes of these assignments or project components is critical for deep learning. Instructors should design in-class exercises where learners are actively engaged with the material they prepared individually and with each other (11).

A. Planning

• Arrange for library instruction. Even students who have achieved some level of proficiency with library research will benefit from the reinforcement and enhancement of their skills. Require attendance. Attend yourself, asking questions as a learner.
• Bring the class to the library or ask a librarian to come to your classroom when they are ready to begin their project, not in advance. Students learn best when there is an immediate and applicable need.
• Send a copy of the assignment to the instruction librarian at your campus. Ask for input before finalizing the assignment. Librarians, for example, are highly skeptical of the academic value of commonly assigned “Library Scavenger Hunts.”
• Include homegrown resource guides, sometimes called “pathfinders,” in your initial quest for student library sources. Often campus instruction and reference librarians develop these guides for various fields or disciplines. If your field is not included, ask the library to develop a resource guide for your area. These subject guides provide students with suggestions for “where to start” their research. Included in the guides are both print and electronic sources such as subject encyclopedias; specialized periodical indexes such as Applied Science and Technology Index ; PsycINFO ; or Sociological Abstracts ; also included are reference works or standards in the field such as The Physician’s Desk Reference (PDR) ; CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics ; or the Statistical Abstract of the United States .
• Consider alternatives to the conventional research paper. Excellent assignment ideas reside on the Web, often at other campus library sites (12, 13, 14, 15, 16).

B. Designing

• Provide your expectations for the assignment in writing to your students. Let them know what the assignment involves and what you expect them to learn from the experience. “I don’t know what s/he wants” is a student lament transcending the ages. Make their day; tell them. To help students fully understand these expectations in practice, consider providing strong and weak samples of typical segments of the project or assignment to discuss and critique in class.
• Specify how the assignment fits with the goals or objectives of the course to show relevance. Be as explicit as possible. Share this information, also, with instruction librarians to help them determine appropriate sources.
• Provide students with the grading criteria in writing for the project or assignment.
• Offer a variety of flexible topics, encouraging students to choose ones that interest them.
• Review the student-selected topics to see that they are appropriate and achievable. Avoid very current or local topics if students need scholarly sources as scholarly peer reviewed journals take time to reach publication.
• Place materials on “Reserve,” if necessary, to avoid having 30 students compete for six books.
• Discuss the role of attribution and documentation in a community of scholars. Include a policy on plagiarism in the syllabus. Emphasize the ethical use of information and of the avoidance of plagiarism. Aside from ethics, there are also copyright laws, both national and international, to consider. Specifically discuss appropriate and inappropriate use of online material, a gray area for many students.
• Announce which style manual you expect students to use. Be very specific about documentation for online sources. Many style manuals are difficult to interpret.

Provide opportunities to engage in deep learning. As noted in the background section, the key components characterizing deep learning are motivation context, learner activity, interaction with others, and a well-structured knowledge base (5). As an example, faculty members can ask students, as part of a larger research project, to prepare paired annotations based on the double entry journal recommended by writing across the curriculum and classroom assessment experts (17). The teacher or the students identify a pool of articles on the question or problem at hand. Each student, working individually out-of-class, prepares a reflective commentary on one of the articles or chapters. They do so using a double column format (a Microsoft Word table works beautifully) where they cite the key points of the research article on the left-hand side and reactions, questions, commentary, and connections with other readings on the right, aligning the key point with the reflective commentary. The entries in these columns will not be the same length. When students come to class, the teacher randomly pairs them with another student who has read and analyzed the same research article. The two partners now read one another’s reflective commentaries, comparing both the key points they have identified and their specific responses to them. They discuss their reasons for the choices they made. Then working together, they prepare a composite annotation summarizing the article (See IDEA Paper No. 38).

This activity should be repeated several times during the semester, pairing different students. It enables students to reflect on their own thinking skills (metacognition) and to compare their thinking with those of other students. The more paired annotations they complete, the more skilled students become at identifying key points in an article and “using resources for answering questions or solving problems.” This structure thus enables teachers to sequence learning in meaningful ways. It builds critical thinking and writing skills by having students analyze and then compare their responses to the same piece of writing. It has the additional virtue of being relevant to virtually any discipline. Over the course of the semester, students build a repertoire of annotated research articles they can bring to bear on the given question or problem.

A note about technology. A thorough discussion of the ways in which new technologies can support and supplement students’ efforts to find and use resources is beyond the scope of this Note. However, we should mention at minimum, that the bounty that awaits students who explore web-based resources comes with a price: the equally large amount of inaccurate, incomplete, and sometimes distorted information that can be found in any web search. The critical issue for teachers is to construct assignments that require specific information known to exist and is accessible with minimum interference from useless, irrelevant, or biased data . Your resource librarian can be a tremendous asset in saving you hours of work (e.g., training students on effective and efficient search strategies and helping everyone to avoid wasting time and effort on valueless information). All disciplines and courses deal with electronic information and we cannot ignore its potential value. What is important to remember in constructing assignments is that the work must have a meaningful relationship to a clearly stated outcome. There has to be a tangible “payoff” in terms of students being able to connect the work to an understood and desired result.

Assessing This Objective

• Develop a rubric (or a form) to assess the announced grading criteria. For example, assign a certain number of points for each component of a project or assignment (see 2 below). What percentage of the total will the final paper and bibliography be? Note what happens if any of the required items are a day late; two days late; etc. What percentage will mechanics—spelling, punctuation, grammar—contribute to the final grade?
• Sequence parts of the project or assignment by establishing intermittent deadlines along the way. This practice not only helps prevent procrastination, but also helps to deter plagiarism. For example, have due dates for the overall topic and the thesis statement, due dates for a preliminary bibliography of “X” number of sources, an outline, a first draft, oral presentation, written or in-class peer reviews, etc.
• Require critical thinking. If students are using Web sites, for example, ask for the background or credentials of the author; ask for the date of last revision if currency is important; ask if students found any bias on the site; and ask why they selected this site from among all the others.
• Make use of peer reviewing throughout the research project or assignment to provide an additional source of feedback and add to the active learning and student interactions essential for deep learning. Have students exchange drafts and apply the rubric or checklist that will be used to assess the assignment. The opportunity for critical review of another draft and seeing comments from a peer will help them more fully understand the expectations, leading to better final products.
• Review respected resources such as the Tutorial for Developing and Evaluating Library Assignments at the University of Maryland University College, Adelphi, MD (18) and the Scoring Criteria for Development/Resource-Based Learning Project at Delta College, University Center, MI (19).
• Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). (2006). Information literacy competency standards for higher education. American Library Association. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.ala.org/ala/acrl/acrlstandards/standardsguidelines.htm
• Hoyt, D. P., & Perera, S. (2000). Teaching approach, instructional objectives, and learning: IDEA research report #1 . Manhattan, KS: IDEA Center, Kansas State University.
• Canja, E. T. (2002). Lifelong learning: Challenges and opportunities. CAEL Forum and News , 26-29.
• Klemp, G. O. (1977). Three factors of success. In D. W. Vermilye (Eds.) Relating work and education: Current issues in higher education 1977 . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Rhem, J. (1995). Close-up: Going deep. The National Teaching and Learning Forum, 5 (1), 4.
• See the Problem Based Learning website at: http://www.samford.edu/pbl/ for many resources and references. Retrieved September 27, 2006.
• Feldman, K. A. (1989). The association between student ratings of specific instructional dimensions and student achievement: Refining and extending the synthesis of data from multisection validity studies. Research in Higher Education, 30 , 583-645.
• Theall, M. (1999). What have we learned? A synthesis and some guidelines for effective motivation in higher education. In M. Theall (Eds.) “Motivation from within: Encouraging faculty and students to excel.” New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 78 . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Franklin, J. L., & Theall, M. (1995). The relationship of disciplinary differences and the value of class preparation time to student ratings of instruction. In N. Hativa & M. Marincovich (Eds.) “Disciplinary differences in teaching and learning: Implications for practice.” New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 64 . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Felder, R.M., & Brent, R. (2005). Understanding student differences. Journal of Engineering Education, 94 (1), 57-72. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.ncsu.edu/effective_teaching/Papers/Understanding_Differences.pdf
• Millis, B. J. (2006). Helping faculty learn to teach better and “smarter” through sequenced activities. In S. Chadwick-Blossy & D.R. Robertson (Eds.). To Improve the Academy , Vol 24. (pp. 216-230). Bolton, MA: POD Network and Anker Publications.
• Designing assignments , University of Washington Libraries.
• Effective assignments using library and Internet resources . (2004). Teaching Library, University of California, Berkeley. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/TeachingLib/assignments.html
• Fister, B., & Fuhr, S. (2001). Suggestions for assignments. Enhancing developmental research skills in the undergraduate curriculum . Folke Bernadotte Memorial Library, Gustavus Adolphus College. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.gustavus.edu/oncampus/academics/library/IMLS/assignmentsuggestions.html
• Recommendations for creating effective library assignments. (2005). Mitchell Memorial Library, Library Instructional Services, Mississippi State University. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://library.msstate.edu/content/templates/?a=323&z=74
• Creative assignments using information competency and writing. (2006). Ohio University, Athens OH. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.library.ohiou.edu/inst/creative.html
• Millis, B., & Cottell, P. (1998). Cooperative learning for higher education faculty. Greenwood Press: American Council on Education, Oryx Press.
• Kelley, K., & McDonald, R. (2005). Section 4: Designing assignments that contain writing and research. In Information literacy and writing assessment project: Tutorial for developing and evaluating assignments . Information and Library Services, University of Maryland University College.
• Examples of good assessments . (2006). Delta College Library, Delta College. Retrieved September 27, 2006 from http://www.delta.edu/library/assessments.html
• IDEA Paper No. 38: Enhancing Learning – and More! – Through Cooperative Learning , Millis
• IDEA Paper No. 41: Student Goal Orientation, Motivation, and Learning , Svinicki
• from http://ejournals.library.gatech.edu/ijsotel/index.php/ijsotel/article/view/19/18
• Gaining A Basic Understanding of the Subject
• Developing knowledge and understanding of diverse perspectives, global awareness, or other cultures
• Learning to apply course material
• Developing specific skills, competencies, and points of view needed by professionals in the field most closely related to this course
• Acquiring skills in working with others as a member of a team
• Developing creative capacities
• Gaining a broader understanding and appreciation of intellectual/cultural activity
• Developing skill in expressing myself orally or in writing
• Developing ethical reasoning and/or ethical decision making
• Learning to analyze and critically evaluate ideas, arguments, and points of view
• Learning to apply knowledge and skills to benefit others or serve the public good
• Learning appropriate methods for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting numerical information

• University of Michigan Library
• Research Guides

The Library Research Process, Step-by-Step

• Finding Articles
• Finding & Exploring a Topic
• Finding Books
• Evaluating Sources
• Reading Scholarly Articles
• Understanding & Using a Citation Style

Peer Reviewed and Scholarly Articles

What are they? Peer-reviewed articles, also known as scholarly or refereed articles are papers that describe a research study. 

Why are peer-reviewed articles useful? They report on original research that have been reviewed by other experts before they are accepted for publication, so you can reasonably be assured that they contain valid information. 

How do you find them?  Many of the library's databases contain scholarly articles! You'll find more about searching databases below.

Watch: Peer Review in 3 Minutes

Why watch this video?

We are often told that scholarly and peer-reviewed sources are the most credible, but, it's sometimes hard to understand why they are credible and why we should trust these sources more than others. This video takes an in depth approach at explaining the peer review process. 

Hot Tip: Check out the Reading Scholarly Articles page for guidance on how to read and understand a scholarly article.

Using Library Databases

What Are Library Databases? 

Databases are similar to search engines but primarily search scholarly journals, magazines, newspapers and other sources. Some databases are subject specific while others are multi-disciplinary (searching across multiple fields and content types). 

You can view our most popularly used databases on the Library's Home Page , or view a list of all of our databases organized by subject or alphabetically at  U-M Library Databases .

Popular Multidisciplinary Databases

Many students use ProQuest , JSTOR , and Google Scholar for their initial search needs. These are multi-disciplinary and not subject-specific, and they can supply a very large number of  search results.

Subject-Specific Databases

Some popular subject-specific databases include PsycINFO for psychology and psychiatry related topics and  PubMed for health sciences topics. 

Why Should You Use Library Databases?

Unlike a Google search, the Library Databases will grant you access to high quality credible sources. 

The sources you'll find in library databases include:

• Scholarly journal articles
• Newspaper articles
• Theses & dissertations
• Empirical evidence

Database Filters & Limits Most databases have Filters/Limits. You can use these to narrow down your search to the specific dates, article type, or population that you are researching.

Here is an example of limits in a database, all databases look slightly different but most have these options:

Keywords and Starting a Search

What are Keywords?

• Natural language words that describe your topic 
• Allows for a more flexible search - looks for anywhere the words appear in the record
• Can lead to a broader search, but may yield irrelevant results

Keyword searching  is how we normally start a search. Pull out important words or phrases from your topic to find your keywords.

Tips for Searching with Keywords:

• Example: "climate change"
• Example:  "climate change" AND policy
• Example: comput* will return all words starting with four letters; computing, computer, compute, etc.  
• Example: wom?n will find both woman and women.

What are Subject Headings?

• Pre-defined "controlled vocabulary" that describe what an item is  about 
• Makes for a less flexible search - only the subject fields will be searched
• Targeted search; results are usually more relevant to the topic, but may miss some variations

Subject Terms and/or Headings are pre-defined terms that are used to describe the content of an item. These terms are a controlled vocabulary and function similarly to hashtags on social media. Look carefully at the results from your search. If you find an article that is relevant to the topic you want to write about, take a look at the subject headings. 

Hot Tip: Make a copy of this Google Doc to help you find and develop your topic's keywords.

More Database Recommendations

Need articles for your library research project, but not sure where to start? We recommend these top ten article databases for kicking off your research. If you can't find what you need searching in one of these top ten databases, browse the list of all library databases by subject (academic discipline) or title .

• U-M Library Articles Search This link opens in a new window Use Articles Search to locate scholarly and popular articles, as well as reference works and materials from open access archives.
• ABI/INFORM Global This link opens in a new window Indexes 3,000+ business-related periodicals (with full text for 2,000+), including Wall Street Journal.
• Academic OneFile This link opens in a new window Provides indexing for over 8,000 scholarly journals, industry periodicals, general interest magazines and newspapers.
• Access World News [NewsBank] This link opens in a new window Full text of 600+ U.S. newspapers and 260+ English-language newspapers from other countries worldwide.
• CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Noted for its in-depth, unbiased coverage of health, social trends, criminal justice, international affairs, education, the environment, technology, and the economy.
• Gale Health and Wellness This link opens in a new window
• Humanities Abstracts (with Full Text) This link opens in a new window Covers 700 periodicals in art, film, journalism, linguistics, music, performing arts, philosophy, religion, history, literature, etc.
• JSTOR This link opens in a new window Full-text access to the archives of 2,600+ journals and 35,000+ books in the arts, humanities, social sciences and sciences.
• ProQuest Research Library This link opens in a new window Indexes over 5,000 journals and magazines, academic and popular, with full text included for over 3,600.
• PsycInfo (APA) This link opens in a new window Premier resource for surveying the literature of psychology and adjunct fields. Covers 1887-present. Produced by the APA.

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how do you come up with a topic for research?

it's really stressful just knowing that you have to come up with a new idea/question that thousands and thousands of genius researchers before have never thought of or solved. How did you come up with your idea in your particular field?

Also, what qualifies for a research topic? If I use previous knowledge and bring them together in new ways, does it count? Feels even more impossible to come up with an entirely new theory in say, math that just happens to have been overlooked by euler or gauss. Or discover a new property of an element or some random cell in the human body.

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How To Find A High-Quality Research Topic

6 steps to find & evaluate high-quality dissertation/thesis topics.

By: Caroline Osella (PhD, BA)  and Derek Jansen (MBA) | July 2019

So, you’re finally nearing the end of your degree and it’s now time to find a suitable topic for your dissertation or thesis. Or perhaps you’re just starting out on your PhD research proposal and need to find a suitable area of research for your application proposal.

In this post, we’ll provide a straightforward 6-step process that you can follow to ensure you arrive at a high-quality research topic . Follow these steps and you will formulate a well-suited, well-defined core research question .

There’s a helpful clue already: your research ‘topic’ is best understood as a research question or a problem . Your aim is not to create an encyclopedia entry into your field, but rather to shed light on an acknowledged issue that’s being debated (or needs to be). Think research  questions , not research  topics  (we’ll come back to this later).

Overview: How To Find A Research Topic

• Get an understanding of the research process
• Review previous dissertations from your university
• Review the academic literature to start the ideation process
• Identify your potential research questions (topics) and shortlist
• Narrow down, then evaluate your research topic shortlist
• Make the decision (and stick with it!)

Step 1: Understand the research process

It may sound horribly obvious, but it’s an extremely common mistake – students skip past the fundamentals straight to the ideation phase (and then pay dearly for it).

Start by looking at whatever handouts and instructions you’ve been given regarding what your university/department expects of a dissertation. For example, the course handbook, online information and verbal in-class instructions. I know it’s tempting to just dive into the ideation process, but it’s essential to start with the prescribed material first.

There are two important reasons for this:

First , you need to have a basic understanding of the research process , research methodologies , fieldwork options and analysis methods before you start the ideation process, or you will simply not be equipped to think about your own research adequately. If you don’t understand the basics of  quantitative , qualitative and mixed methods BEFORE you start ideating, you’re wasting your time.

Second , your university/department will have specific requirements for your research – for example, requirements in terms of topic originality, word count, data requirements, ethical adherence , methodology, etc. If you are not aware of these from the outset, you will again end up wasting a lot of time on irrelevant ideas/topics.

So, the most important first step is to get your head around both the basics of research (especially methodologies), as well as your institution’s specific requirements . Don’t give in to the temptation to jump ahead before you do this. As a starting point, be sure to check out our free dissertation course.

Step 2: Review past dissertations/theses

Unless you’re undertaking a completely new course, there will be many, many students who have gone through the research process before and have produced successful dissertations, which you can use to orient yourself. This is hugely beneficial – imagine being able to see previous students’ assignments and essays when you were doing your coursework!

Take a look at some well-graded (65% and above) past dissertations from your course (ideally more recent ones, as university requirements may change over time). These are usually available in the university’s online library. Past dissertations will act as a helpful model for all kinds of things, from how long a bibliography needs to be, to what a good literature review looks like, through to what kinds of methods you can use – and how to leverage them to support your argument.

As you peruse past dissertations, ask yourself the following questions:

• What kinds of topics did these dissertations cover and how did they turn the topic into questions?
• How broad or narrow were the topics?
• How original were the topics? Were they truly groundbreaking or just a localised twist on well-established theory?
• How well justified were the topics? Did they seem important or just nice to know?
• How much literature did they draw on as a theoretical base? Was the literature more academic or applied in nature?
• What kinds of research methods did they use and what data did they draw on?
• How did they analyse that data and bring it into the discussion of the academic literature?
• Which of the dissertations are most readable to you – why? How were they presented?
• Can you see why these dissertations were successful? Can you relate what they’ve done back to the university’s instructions/brief?

Seeing a variety of dissertations (at least 5, ideally in your area of interest) will also help you understand whether your university has very rigid expectations in terms of structure and format , or whether they expect and allow variety in the number of chapters, chapter headings, order of content, style of presentation and so on.

Some departments accept graphic novels; some are willing to grade free-flow continental-philosophy style arguments; some want a highly rigid, standardised structure.  Many offer a dissertation template , with information on how marks are split between sections. Check right away whether you have been given one of those templates – and if you do, then use it and don’t try to deviate or reinvent the wheel.

Step 3: Review the academic literature

Now that you (1) understand the research process, (2) understand your university’s specific requirements for your dissertation or thesis, and (3) have a feel for what a good dissertation looks like, you can start the ideation process. This is done by reviewing the current literature and looking for opportunities to add something original to the academic conversation.

Kick start the ideation process

So, where should you start your literature hunt? The best starting point is to get back to your modules. Look at your coursework and the assignments you did. Using your coursework is the best theoretical base, as you are assured that (1) the literature is of a high enough calibre for your university and (2) the topics are relevant to your specific course.

Start by identifying the modules that interested you the most and that you understood well (i.e. earned good marks for). What were your strongest assignments, essays or reports? Which areas within these were particularly interesting to you? For example, within a marketing module, you may have found consumer decision making or organisation trust to be interesting. Create a shortlist of those areas that you were both interested in and academically strong at. It’s no use picking an area that does not genuinely interest you – you’ll run out of motivation if you’re not excited by a topic.

Understand the current state of knowledge

Once you’ve done that, you need to get an understanding of the current state of the literature for your chosen interest areas. What you’re aiming to understand is this: what is the academic conversation here and what critical questions are yet unanswered? These unanswered questions are prime opportunities for a unique, meaningful research topic . A quick review of the literature on your favourite topics will help you understand this.

Grab your reading list from the relevant section of the modules, or simply enter the topics into Google Scholar . Skim-read 3-5 journal articles from the past 5 years which have at least 5 citations each (Google Scholar or a citations index will show you how many citations any given article has – i.e., how many other people have referred to it in their own bibliography). Also, check to see if your discipline has an ‘annual review’ type of journal, which gathers together surveys of the state of knowledge on a chosen topic. This can be a great tool for fast-tracking your understanding of the current state of the knowledge in any given area.

Start from your course’s reading list and work outwards. At the end of every journal article, you’ll find a reference list. Scan this reference list for more relevant articles and read those. Then repeat the process (known as snowballing) until you’ve built up a base of 20-30 quality articles per area of interest.

Absorb, don’t hunt

At this stage, your objective is to read and understand the current state of the theory for your area(s) of interest – you don’t need to be in topic-hunting mode yet. Don’t jump the gun and try to identify research topics before you are well familiarised with the literature.

As you read, try to understand what kinds of questions people are asking and how they are trying to answer them. What matters do the researchers agree on, and more importantly, what are they in disagreement about? Disagreements are prime research territory. Can you identify different ‘schools of thought’ or different ‘approaches’? Do you know what your own approach or slant is? What kinds of articles appeal to you and which ones bore you or leave you feeling like you’ve not really grasped them? Which ones interest you and point towards directions you’d like to research and know more about?

Once you understand the fundamental fact that academic knowledge is a conversation, things get easier.

Think of it like a party. There are groups of people in the room, enjoying conversations about various things. Which group do you want to join?  You don’t want to be that person in the corner, talking to themself. And you don’t want to be the hanger-on, laughing at the big-shot’s jokes and repeating everything they say.

Do you want to join a large group and try to make a small contribution to what’s going on, or are you drawn to a smaller group that’s having a more niche conversation, but where you feel you might more easily find something original to contribute? How many conversations can you identify? Which ones feel closer to you and more attractive? Which ones repel you or leave you cold? Are there some that, frankly, you just don’t understand?

Now, choose a couple of groups who are discussing something you feel interested in and where you feel like you might want to contribute. You want to make your entry into this group by asking a question – a question that will make the other people in the group turn around and look at you, listen to you, and think, “That’s interesting”.

Your dissertation will be the process of setting that question and then trying to find at least a partial answer to that question – but don’t worry about that now.  Right now, you need to work out what conversations are going on, whether any of them are related or overlapping, and which ones you might be able to walk into. I’ll explain how you find that question in the next step.

Need a helping hand?

Step 4: Identify potential research questions

Now that you have a decent understanding of the state of the literature in your area(s) of interest, it’s time to start developing your list of possible research topics. There are (at least) three approaches you can follow here, and they are not mutually exclusive:

Approach 1: Leverage the FRIN

Towards the end of most quality journal articles, you will find a section labelled “ further research ” or something similar. Generally, researchers will clearly outline where they feel further research is needed (FRIN), following on from their own research. So, essentially, every journal article presents you with a list of potential research opportunities.

Of course, only a handful of these will be both practical and of interest to you, so it’s not a quick-fix solution to finding a research topic. However, the benefit of going this route is that you will be able to find a genuinely original and meaningful research topic (which is particularly important for PhD-level research).

The upside to this approach is originality, but the downside is that you might not find something that really interests you , or that you have the means to execute. If you do go this route, make sure that you pay attention to the journal article dates, as the FRIN may already have been “solved” by other researchers if the article is old.

Approach 2: Put a context-based spin on an existing topic

The second option is to consider whether a theory which is already well established is relevant within a local or industry-specific context. For example, a theory about the antecedents (drivers) of trust is very well established, but there may be unique or uniquely important drivers within a specific national context or industry (for example, within the financial services industry in an emerging market).

If that industry or national context has not yet been covered by researchers and there is a good reason to believe there may be meaningful differences within that context, then you have an opportunity to take a unique angle on well-established theory, which can make for a great piece of research. It is however imperative that you have a good reason to believe that the existing theory may not be wholly relevant within your chosen context, or your research will not be justified.

The upside to this approach is that you can potentially find a topic that is “closer to home” and more relevant and interesting to you , while still being able to draw on a well-established body of theory. However, the downside is that this approach will likely not produce the level of originality as approach #1.

Approach 3: Uncensored brainstorming

The third option is to skip the FRIN, as well as the local/industry-specific angle and simply engage in a freeform brainstorming or mind-mapping session, using your newfound knowledge of the theory to formulate potential research ideas. What’s important here is that you do not censor yourself . However crazy, unfeasible, or plain stupid your topic appears – write it down. All that matters right now is that you are interested in this thing.

Next, try to turn the topic(s) into a question or problem. For example:

• What is the relationship between X, Y & Z?
• What are the drivers/antecedents of X?
• What are the outcomes of Y?
• What are the key success factors for Z?

Re-word your list of topics or issues into a list of questions .  You might find at this stage that one research topic throws up three questions (which then become sub-topics and even new separate topics in their own right) and in so doing, the list grows. Let it. Don’t hold back or try to start evaluating your ideas yet – just let them flow onto paper.

Once you’ve got a few topics and questions on paper, check the literature again to see whether any of these have been covered by the existing research. Since you came up with these from scratch, there is a possibility that your original literature search did not cover them, so it’s important to revisit that phase to ensure that you’re familiar with the relevant literature for each idea. You may also then find that approach #1 and #2 can be used to build on these ideas.

Try use all three approaches

As mentioned earlier, the three approaches discussed here are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the more, the merrier. Hopefully, you manage to utilise all three, as this will give you the best odds of producing a rich list of ideas, which you can then narrow down and evaluate, which is the next step.

Step 5: Narrow down, then evaluate

By this stage, you should have a healthy list of research topics. Step away from the ideation and thinking for a few days, clear your mind. The key is to get some distance from your ideas, so that you can sit down with your list and review it with a more objective view. The unbridled ideation phase is over and now it’s time to take a reality check .

Look at your list and see if any options can be crossed off right away .  Maybe you don’t want to do that topic anymore. Maybe the topic turned out to be too broad and threw up 20 hard to answer questions. Maybe all the literature you found about it was 30 years old and you suspect it might not be a very engaging contemporary issue . Maybe this topic is so over-researched that you’ll struggle to find anything fresh to say. Also, after stepping back, it’s quite common to notice that 2 or 3 of your topics are really the same one, the same question, which you’ve written down in slightly different ways. You can try to amalgamate these into one succinct topic.

Narrow down to the top 5, then evaluate

Now, take your streamlined list and narrow it down to the ‘top 5’ that interest you the most. Personal interest is your key evaluation criterion at this stage. Got your ‘top 5’?  Great!  Now, with a cool head and your best analytical mind engaged, go systematically through each option and evaluate them against the following criteria:

Research questions – what is the main research question, and what are the supporting sub-questions? It’s critically important that you can define these questions clearly and concisely. If you cannot do this, it means you haven’t thought the topic through sufficiently.

Originality – is the topic sufficiently original, as per your university’s originality requirements? Are you able to add something unique to the existing conversation? As mentioned earlier, originality can come in many forms, and it doesn’t mean that you need to find a completely new, cutting-edge topic. However, your university’s requirements should guide your decision-making here.

Importance – is the topic of real significance, or is it just a “nice to know”? If it’s significant, why? Who will benefit from finding the answer to your desired questions and how will they benefit? Justifying your research will be a key requirement for your research proposal , so it’s really important to develop a convincing argument here.

Literature – is there a contemporary (current) body of academic literature around this issue? Is there enough literature for you to base your investigation on, but not too much that the topic is “overdone”? Will you be able to navigate this literature or is it overwhelming?

Data requirements – What kind of data would you need access to in order to answer your key questions?  Would you need to adopt a qualitative, quantitative or mixed-methods approach to answer your questions? At this stage, you don’t need to be able to map out your exact research design, but you should be able to articulate how you would approach it in high-level terms. Will you use qual, quant or mixed methods? Why?

Feasibility – How feasible would it be to gather the data that would be needed in the time-frame that you have – and do you have the will power and the skills to do it? If you’re not confident with the theory, you don’t want something that’s going to draw you into a debate about the relative importance of epistemology and ontology. If you are shy, you won’t want to be doing ethnographic interviews. If you feel this question calls for a 100-person survey, do you have the time to plan, organise and conduct it and then analyse it? What will you do if you don’t get the response rate you expect? Be very realistic here and also ask advice from your supervisor and other experts – poor response rates are extremely common and can derail even the best research projects.

Personal attraction – On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about this topic? Will addressing it add value to your life and/or career? Will undertaking the project help you build a skill you’ve previously wanted to work on (for example, interview skills, statistical analysis skills, software skills, etc.)?

The last point is particularly important. You will have to engage with your dissertation in a very sustained and deep way, face challenges and difficulties, and get it to completion. If you don’t start out enthusiastic about it, you’re setting yourself up for problems like ‘writer’s block’ or ‘burnout’ down the line. This is the reason personal interest was the sole evaluation criterion when we chose the top 5. So, don’t underestimate the importance of personal attraction to a topic – at the same time, don’t let personal attraction lead you to choose a topic that is not relevant to your course or feasible given your resources. 

Narrow down to 3, then get human feedback

We’re almost at the finishing line. The next step is to narrow down to 2 or 3 shortlisted topics. No more!  Write a short paragraph about each topic, addressing the following:

Firstly,  WHAT will this study be about? Frame the topic as a question or a problem. Write it as a dissertation title. No more than two clauses and no more than 15 words. Less than 15 is better (go back to good journal articles for inspiration on appropriate title styles).

Secondly, WHY this is interesting (original) and important – as proven by existing academic literature? Are people talking about this and is there an acknowledged problem, debate or gap in the literature?

Lastly,  HOW do you plan to answer the question? What sub-questions will you use? What methods does this call for and how competent and confident are you in those methods? Do you have the time to gather the data this calls for?

Show the shortlist and accompanying paragraphs to a couple of your peers from your course and also to an expert or two if at all possible (you’re welcome to reach out to us ), explaining what you will investigate, why this is original and important and how you will go about investigating it. 

Once you’ve pitched your ideas, ask for the following thoughts :

• Which is most interesting and appealing to them?
• Why do they feel this way?
• What problems do they foresee with the execution of the research?

Take advice and feedback and sit on it for another day. Let it simmer in your mind overnight before you make the final decision.  

Step 6: Make the decision (and stick with it!)

Then, make the commitment. Choose the one that you feel most confident about, having now considered both your opinion and the feedback from others.

Once you’ve made a decision, don’t doubt your judgement, don’t shift.  Don’t be tempted by the ones you left behind. You’ve planned and thought things through, checked feasibility and now you can start.  You have your research topic. Trust your own decision-making process and stick with it now. It’s time to get started on your research proposal!

Let’s recap…

In this post, I’ve proposed a straightforward 6-step plan to finding relevant research topic ideas and then narrowing them down to finally choose one winner. To recap:

• Understand the basics of academic research, as well as your university’s specific requirements for a dissertation, thesis or research project.
• Review previous dissertations for your course to get an idea of both topics and structure.
• Start the ideation process by familiarising yourself with the literature.
• Identify your potential research questions (topics).
• Narrow down your options, then evaluate systematically.
• Make your decision (and don’t look back!)

If you follow these steps, you’ll find that they also set you up for what’s coming next – both the proposal and the first three chapters of your dissertation. But that’s for future posts!

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

23 Comments

I would love to get a topic under teachers performance. I am a student of MSC Monitoring and Evaluations and I need a topic in the line of monitoring and evaluations

I just we put for some full notes that are payable

Thank you very much Dr Caroline

I need a project topics on transfer of learning

m a PhD Student I would like to be assisted inn formulating a title around: Internet of Things for online education in higher education – STEM (Science, technology, engineering and Mathematics, digital divide ) Thank you, would appreciate your guidance

Well structured guide on the topic… Good materials for beginners in research writing…

Hello Iam kindly seeking for help in formulating a researchable topic for masters degree program in line with teaching GRAPHIC ART

I read a thesis about a problem in a particular. Can I use the same topic just referring to my own country? Is that being original? The interview questions will mostly be the same as the other thesis.

Hi, thanks I managed to listen to the video so helpful indeed. I am currently an MBA student looking for a specific topic and I have different ideas that not sure they can be turned to be a study.

I am doing a Master of Theology in Pastoral Care and Counselling and I felt like doing research on Spiritual problem cause by substance abuse among Youth. Can I get help to formulate the Thesis Title in line with it…please

Hello, I am kindly seeking help in formulating a researchable topic for a National diploma program

As a beginner in research, I am very grateful for this well-structured material on research writing.

Hello, I watched the video and its very helpful. I’m a student in Nursing (degree). May you please help me with any research problems (in Namibian society or Nursing) that need to be evaluate or solved?

I have been greatly impacted. Thank you.

more than useful… there will be no justification if someone fails to get a topic for his thesis

I watched the video and its really helpful.

How can i started discovery

Analysing the significance of Integrated reporting in Zimbabwe. A case of institutional investors. this is my topic for PHD Accounting sciences need help with research questions

Excellent session that cleared lots of doubts.

Excellent session that cleared lots of doubts

It was a nice one thank you

Wow, This helped a lot not only with how to find a research topic but inspired me to kick it off from now, I am a final year student of environmental science. And have to complete my project in the coming six months.

I was really stressed and thinking about different topics that I don’t know nothing about and having more than a hundred topics in the baggage, couldn’t make the tradeoff among them, however, reading this scrubbed the fuzzy layer off my head and now it seems like really easy.

Thanks GRADCOACH, you saved me from getting into the rabbit hole.

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Back to School: Top Resources for Developing Student Research Skills

Around the world, students and educators are gearing up for a new school year — one that will be productive and successful. School libraries play a crucial role in this process by providing access to essential resources that foster research skills, information literacy and academic achievement. EBSCO offers library databases and e-learning tools that can help students (and teachers) hit the ground running.

As students return to the classroom, library databases become invaluable tools in honing their research skills. Databases provide access to a wealth of reliable resources that students will need for assignments, projects and papers throughout the school year. By using these tools, students will learn how to identify reliable sources, conduct advanced searches, understand the scope of academic research, and develop essential information literacy skills that will support their academic success.

Explora , the EBSCO research experience for schools, is designed to be user-friendly for all students, especially younger or novice researchers. While keyword searching is a common method, Explora’s unique topic browsing feature allows students to delve into various subjects and themes within the database. Each topic category in Explora guides users to a page filled with popular, colloquial, or curriculum-based subtopics, encouraging them to explore and discover new information more organically. Additionally, Explora includes a built-in citation tool to help students correctly reference their sources.

Librarians and teachers who incorporate Explora into classroom instruction can leverage our Research and Writing Tips for Students , which includes a six-step research guide and handouts on critical topics such as crafting thesis statements and avoiding plagiarism. In addition, our lesson plans cover a wide range of subjects to support information literacy instruction and the seamless integration of library databases into the curriculum.

EBSCOlearning also offers a variety of resources to support the development of research and information literacy skills in high school students. Libraries subscribing to PrepSTEP for High Schools can access several tutorials and microlessons on relevant topics, including:

• What is Information Literacy?
• Research Basics: Information Literacy
• How to Avoid Plagiarism
• How to Find Good Sources and Format Citations
• Succeed in Your Academic Writing
• Making Sense of Today’s Media

By providing a comprehensive suite of digital resources, school libraries can ensure that students have the tools and guidance they need to excel academically and develop the critical skills necessary to become informed, engaged citizens throughout their lives.

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Speaker 1: One of the most frequently asked questions that I am asked all the time across my social media platforms, across my YouTube, across my comments, is about the research process. So how do you start? Where do you even begin? You need to submit a dissertation, you need to submit a research proposal, you need to think of a hypothesis, you need to think of a problem statement, you need to find a gap in literature where do you even begin with the whole research process now it isn't as hard as it seems it's just one of those things that you're never told or you're never taught how to do it's one of those things that you just kind of figure out so hopefully in today's video i will be talking to you about the overview and kind of a quick beginner's guide to the research process, giving you the steps of how you get from zero to having something, having a question, having a hypothesis, having somewhere to start. I'm going to be making this into a bit of a series so in today's video I'm going to be giving you an overview as to the different chapters, the different sections of the process, how you get from nothing to something and then in the following videos I will be going through each of those sections in a bit more detail and hopefully if you are someone who is within one of those kind of parts you can just jump to that video and have a have a quick quick watch if you are someone who is just starting off then this is the best place for you to begin have a little think about how you're going to navigate your research process and how you're going to get from the start to the end it is not difficult but it does require a few steps, a few technicalities, which I'll talk you through today. I'll leave the timestamps down below so you feel free to go and jump to the different sections that you are interested in watching. And if you do enjoy this kind of video and you want to see the rest of the videos from me, then don't forget to subscribe to see more on my channel. So step number one is to choose a topic. Now this is the beginning of something beautiful. This is where you choose what you're actually going to be studying and when you're actually going to be reading about now it's really important that you have chosen a topic that you are interested in that there is an interest in within the research space that has something missing so you don't want to choose a topic that we know everything about you want to choose a topic that we don't know everything about and there are things that we want to try to find more about you want to choose a topic that is within your university guidelines so as much as i would love to do a research on the solar system about space well if my course is to do with cell biology well then i can't so you have to think about your limits think about what you are allowed to do within your university guidelines as well but you do need to think about taking that broad topic and making it into something a bit more narrow so it's not good enough to just say i want to do research on alzheimer's okay alzheimer's fine you've got a topic, but you now need to narrow it down. So what about it are you looking at? Are you looking at the risk factors? Are you looking at what happens once you have Alzheimer's? Are you looking at a specific group of people? Are you looking at a specific cell type? What is it that you are looking at? You need to narrow that down. In order to narrow it down, you need to do a bit of a literature search. So whilst choosing a topic, whilst in this first stage, you need to look at literature. So to find literature you want to go to different websites where you have literature and this could be for example Google Scholar is a good place to start, PubMed is a good place to start. These are places where you can find literature about that topic and kind of read around the subject and identify whether firstly is it something that you are actually interested in and secondly is there enough information for you to gather to be able to write your literature review in the future so that first step your first step of your research process is thinking about the topic because without a topic you there's nothing you can't do anything else so the first step has to always be to find a topic and think about it now once you've thought about a topic and you've narrowed it down to the thing that you're interested in at this stage you will then go to your supervisor to your lecturer to your professor to your mentor to your tutor and you will ask them do you think this is a good topic and that is where you will get some feedback and most likely you'll have to go back have another think or try to refine a bit more or try to think about it in a different way but that is always the first step. In the video that I make about finding a good topic we'll talk about it in a lot more depth but to start off with to introduce this is always the first step. So the second step is to identify a problem and this is what we like to call in as you know in research the gap in literature. So a problem slash gap in literature is the part of research that we that is missing. So when you do research in fact in order to graduate from a PhD you have to and this is one of the criteria you have to produce research it has to be in a thesis or in a in a published paper it has to be research it has to be a finding that is new something that we do not know before we did not know before your research right and that is the number one criteria for for actually getting a phd it is the fact that it has to be something new has to be something novel that you have discovered okay so you need to think about the gap in literature where is there a missing piece i understand this i understand that we know this we know that but what is there that we don't quite know and that is the bit that you are then going to try to identify during your research process right chosen a topic now we need to find the problem where is the missing information now in order to do this you need to have read a lot of papers around your topic. So that's why I said initially, you need to have had approval from your committee, from your tutor, your supervisor to say, right, that's okay. It's good for me to go there. Now you've got that topic that you're looking at. You then want to try to find the gap. Where are you going to slot in? What is it that you are going to provide in terms of knowledge? Now, the identifying a problem is actually quite an important and quite critical part of the research process it's almost impossible you to continue on with your research without having identified the problem because if you don't have a problem you don't know what it is you're looking at you don't know what methods you're using you don't know what your research question is going to be or your hypothesis so at this stage you have to have a very well-defined research problem and your question in order to continue on to the next steps so when i say research problem and we'll talk about this more in in the following video that i'm going to produce about it but when i talk about research problem it could be a number of different things so it could be that we understand or we have the knowledge of a certain situation but now you're comparing it to a different situation so it could be more theoretical where you're comparing two things to each other that haven't been compared before so that would be fine as long as what you have is something original or you may be trying to explore a specific relationship let's say for example in my case with my PhD I was looking at two different proteins and the relationship between them so that is one type of research that you can do as well and so just think about your topic and think about where the gap is in the literature you have to read a lot to be able to find this and a question I get a lot emailed to me and directed to me is about this problem so how do I find a problem like how do i find a gap in literature and it's almost impossible for me to to give you any answers because i have to have read all the papers within your topic in order to answer that question which is almost impossible so it's something that you have to do independently and you can always discuss with me you can discuss kind of trying to refine that question but for the most part you need to read around your subject yourself to get that question then step number three is to actually write down your research question now this is usually in the form maybe of a hypothesis or maybe it could be just a you know a standalone question so this is just you saying this is what i'm looking at so i'm looking at whether actin and myosin bind together to have an impact on the motility of the cortex like that is my question and then i'll have a hypothesis saying actin and myosin bind together and they do this so this is just my question and you're just following on from your problem so you've identified your topic you found the problem the gap in literature and then you write down what your question is so what it is exactly that you are looking for and this will be like your guiding star this will be the thing the question the statement that you have at the top you know at the top of your mind whenever you are looking at literature whenever you're writing a literature review whenever you speak to someone you have that question in mind and so that needs to be something that's really well defined it should also be really specific so it can't just be saying is obesity caused by i don't know fatty food i'm just giving a random example that is too vague is obesity in children in male in female different ages what fatty foods what like you need to be very very specific so specific that someone else should be able to pick up your research question and know what it is you're looking at they need to be able to know sort of what methods you're using is it qualitative or is it quantitative what type of research are you actually doing that should really be in the research question so a good research question is one where that is really well defined then step number four is to write a research design so this is where you're kind of creating a bit of a method a bit of a process within a process so you are now writing down and you're now thinking about how you're going to conduct this research so to follow this will be the research proposal but at this stage here you're just thinking about your research design so how are you going to get this research done what are the factors that you need to think about who are the people the participants that you may need are you doing a lab-based thing do you need cells are you you know what do you need humans do you need animals is it just a review paper so do you just need to think about researchers out there what kind of study are you going to conduct in order to find out the results and the answer to your question essentially the research design is a practical framework so it's giving laying out that frame for you in order to answer your research question. And here, it's more of a thinking process. It's more of a discussion. You might want to ask your supervisor, you might want to ask your tutor to talk about it. How are we going to get the answer to this question? And then to finish off the research process, you now want to write a research proposal. And I have a really good video about this, and I'll leave the link for it down below, where you are detailing all the steps for your research so you're detailing your the background of your research the literature review and you're justifying that there is a need for this research you then want to detail your methods your materials the aim your you know your timeline how long it's going to take you to do these things and then that document is what you take with you to your supervisor and say look this is my research proposal you might take it to a potential phd supervisor and say look this is what i've found and this is what i'm really interested in and here is the proposal and you have it all outlined there for you or it's a document that you're able to use in order to build upon your dissertation and so if you're writing an essay dissertation you are able to use that as well so with your research proposal you are detailing the context you are detailing the purpose the plan and your aims the whole process going from finding a topic finding a problem finding the research question defining the actual research and then now you're compiling all of that and you're putting it into a document called the research proposal and all of this information is in there someone should be able to pick that up see what you found find the review of the literature and say right this is a good study this is a good bit of research we are going to approve this and then you can go on and plan the rest of your research so i hope this video helped you summarizing the steps of the research process to begin with and as i mentioned i'm going to be doing each of these five steps as single videos so i can expand on them and i'll make it into a playlist so you're able to sort of follow up and click on the next couple videos but for now i hope this did help with thinking about the research process and thinking about maybe what stage you are at if you are at any of them if you do want further support you can contact me on thepagedoctor.com where i give support and we have a team of consultants top consultants and top editors that can support you through the process of writing your research proposal or even through the post process of thinking about how you're going to find a gap in literature how you're going to find you know your hypothesis and define that for you so don't forget to leave me a comment and let me know if this was helpful and don't forget to leave me a thumbs up and subscribe to see more from me and I'll see you in my next one. Bye.

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Databases are collections of information. We purchase access to several databases that contain journals and magazines where you can find articles for your research.

There are two types of databases for articles:

Subject-specific: These databases gather articles from journals about specific disciplines or topics, such as Education or Art or Psychology.

• Good for: Finding scholarly articles on very specific topics

Multidisciplinary: These databases gather articles from across multiple disciplines. It could be a database that covers a wide variety of social sciences or it could be a database that covers a wide variety across the arts, humanities, social sciences and sciences. Using a subject-specific database often means you can search for very specific topics and find materials.

• Good for: Finding scholarly articles on your topic from a variety of perspectives from different disciplines

Articles that are peer-reviewed can also be referred to as  peer-reviewed, refereed or scholarly articles.

Scholarly articles are written by researchers or experts in a field to share the results of their original research or analysis with other researchers, experts and students. These articles go through a process known as "peer review" where the article is reviewed by a group of experts in the field and revised based on peer feedback before being accepted and published by a journal.

This short video further explains what peer review is and why it's important.

• Video: Peer Review

These databases are examples of good subject-specific databases for researching the disciplines of Art, Education, and Psychology:

Education journal articles (EJ references) and ERIC documents (ED references), 1967-present. EDs before 1997 are requestable using the Microforms Request page and usable in the Microforms Vewing Room in the LC.

A free version of ERIC is available for all to use at this link: https://eric.ed.gov/ .

Available on campus to all, or off-campus to UMass Amherst students, staff and faculty with an UMass Amherst IT NetID (user name) and password.

These are examples of multidisciplinary databases that also have a broader focus. Social Science Premium Collection  covers multiple disciplines in the social sciences and Scopus has coverage in the arts, humanities, social sciences and sciences. With Scopus, you can sort by citation to see highly cited articles.

• Scopus This link opens in a new window Scopus is an indexing and abstracting database of peer-reviewed scholarly content covering the sciences, social sciences, and arts & humanities, comparable to the Web of Science. Scopus allows for the discovery, tracking, and analysis of scholarship that includes: journal articles, conference proceedings, trade magazines, book series, books and book chapters, and patents. Use Scopus to: • Search for documents by topic, title, author, or institutional affiliation • Perform citation searches and establish citation alerts • Export citations to reference management systems • View impact metrics for authors and journals • Integrate Scopus content with ORCID profiles more... less... Available on campus to all, or off-campus to UMass Amherst students, staff and faculty with an UMass Amherst IT NetID (user name) and password.

We have more than 600 databases on a wide variety of topics. The spectrum ranges from databases that have a very specific topic to databases that are multidisciplinary.

The easiest way to find databases with articles on your research topic is to use the Databases A-Z List. Use the link below to go the list.

You can use the following filters to find databases based on subject and format:

• Click on the Subjects filter to narrow down to a specific subject. If you select Multidisciplinary , you will get databases that cover a wide variety of publications.
• Click on the Types filter and select the Articles  filter. This narrows down the list to databases with articles (abstract only and full-text).
• Finally, click Search .

• You can select multiple subjects. Once you've picked one subject, you can go back and select another to add.
• If you use the filters, make sure to click on Clear Filters  before switching to another subject and/or format.
• Try exploring different subjects to find databases that have other discipline perspective on your topic. For instance, you might want to explore psychology databases if you're researching the effects of a specific learning theory.
• If there's a database you want to bookmark, make sure to bookmark the link from the Databases A-Z list.
• Databases A-Z List of databases by subject and type.

Library staff at the UMass Libraries have developed research guides by subjects, topics and collections. You can look at various guides and see what resources librarians recommend for those subjects, which includes databases where you can find articles.

• UMass Amherst Libraries Research Guides

If the article that you want doesn't have full-text available, look for this icon in the result for the article and click on it:

This will search our other databases to see if it's available full-text. You'll go to a page that may list several of the options if they are available:

Google Scholar searches scholarly literature across many topics. However, we don't know what it searches - you can't tell if it's a comprehensive search of the literature. The benefit of using library databases is that you can see where the information in the database is from, such as a list of publications.

Use Our Google Scholar Link!

You want to use the Google Scholar link from the Databases A-Z list or use the link below (and use that link if you want a bookmark!)

This will allow you to search Google Scholar and if the article is in one our databases, you'll either see a link to the article on the right and/or you will see UMass Check for Full Text . The check for full text will do the same as the UMass icon described above.

Google Scholar Search Tips

• You can then limit the search by exact phrases, exclude specific words, or select where the words searched occur (anywhere or just the title). You can also search by the author, journal and/or specific date ranges.
• Most of the article search tips below will work for Google Scholar!
• Google Scholar This link opens in a new window Use to access many UMass online journal subscriptions. more... less... Available on campus to all, or off-campus to UMass Amherst students, staff and faculty with an UMass Amherst IT NetID (user name) and password. You can access Google Scholar with UMLinks buttons from outside the UMass Amherst IP range ("off campus") by two methods: 1. Access Google Scholar through the Library web site by using this link. 2. Go to generic Google Scholar. a. Click on "Settings." b. Click on Library links. c. Type in "University of Massachusetts" or "UMass Amherst" (or a few other variations). d. Check "University of Massachusetts Amherst - UMass Check for Full Text" and Save. e. You will be asked to authenticate somewhere along the way to full text.

If you know the name of the journal of the article that you want, you can use Publication Finder to see if we have electronic access to the journal. You can search for the name of the publication and limit by publication type.

How To Search

• If you are getting too many results, you may want to change Contains to Exact Match or Begins With to narrow the results down.
• You can also switch from Title to ISSN and search by the ISSN for the journal if you have it. You can often find the ISSN on the publisher's page for the journal. This is helpful for journals with frequently used words in the title, such as Journal or Education .
• If you see Full Text Delay , this means that there are only abstracts available for the specified number of years.

• Once you've determined that the date is available, click on the name of the database. This will bring you to the details for the publication.
• Usually there is some way to browse by the year (often on the right or in a drop-down field in a bar under the publication's name).
• There is often a link to click to search within that publication or sometimes a search bar to immediately search within the publication.
• Publication Finder Search PubFinder to see if we have electronic access to a publication by name or ISSN.
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• Last Updated: Aug 27, 2024 7:31 PM
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• News & Stories

Q&A: Understanding and Preventing Youth Firearm Violence

Jessika Bottiani discusses her research on the significant disparities in youth firearm violence and how understanding those gaps can help future prevention efforts.

Leslie Booren

August 26, 2024

This summer the United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a landmark advisory on firearm violence , declaring it a public health crisis. According to the advisory, gun violence reaches across the lifespan and is currently the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America.

Researchers at Youth-Nex, the UVA Center to Promote Effective Youth Development, have been examining some of the root causes of youth firearm violence disparities to better understand this crisis and how future prevention efforts may work.

Recently, the Society for Research on Adolescence (SRA) recognized Dr. Jessika Bottiani, an associate research professor at the UVA School of Education and Human Development and faculty affiliate at Youth-Nex, and her co-authors with the 2024 Social Policy Publication Award for a paper on the prevention of youth firearm violence disparities . SRA highlighted this review as work that should be read by all policymakers.

We sat down with Bottiani to learn more about this research review.

Q: Your paper examined research on youth firearm violence and firearm risk. What did you find?

A: Our review and synthesis of data demonstrated striking differences in firearm risk across intersectional identities. We separated out different types of firearm violence (e.g., homicide, suicide, injury), which revealed distinctions in risk across different demographic groups–most saliently gun homicide among Black boys and young men in urban settings.

A staggering degree of inequity in firearm fatalities is shouldered by Black boys and young men in this country, where the rate of firearm homicide is more than 20 times higher among Black boys and young men ages 15-24 than for white boys and young men in the same age groups. We also saw higher rates of gun suicide among white and Indigenous American boys and young men in rural areas of the United States.

When we examined rates by geography, we identified intersectional differences in risk that are important for policymakers to understand. For example, we saw that higher rates of firearm homicide among Black boys and young men were most salient in urban areas of the Midwest and south of the United States. Overlaying data onto maps demonstrated how young male suicide by firearm is also clustered geographically, for example, in rural counties in the Midwest and west for Indigenous young males, and in in rural counties in the west for White male youth (who have the second highest rate of suicide by firearm after Indigenous young males).

Q: Why was a review of the research specifically focused on disparities in youth firearm violence needed?

A: A lot of systematic and scoping reviews on firearm violence had come out in the literature around this time, but none of them focused on understanding why Black boys and young men in urban areas were so disproportionately affected, or why we were also seeing gaps affecting rural White boys and young men. This paper presented data that revealed the degree of these disparities and tried to understand the root causes.

We don’t pay enough attention to the role of racist historical policies and regulations that have calcified into today’s racially segregated geographies and poverty. With this paper, we wanted to reveal the way in which youth gun violence is inextricably bound to the history of race, place, and culture in the United States. The paper also delves into cultural norms around guns and masculinity. We feel insights on these aspects of context are vital for understanding how to address youth firearm violence.

Q: What future prevention efforts do you suggest in your paper?

A: We put forth a number of evidence-based solutions for settings ranging from emergency rooms to schools to address firearm violence at the individual level. Yet perhaps more importantly, we also provide suggestions for tackling the structural and sociocultural factors that underlie firearm violence.

At the community level, our recommendations range from violence interrupters to programs and policies that seek to disrupt racial segregation and redress housing inequities. We also note the potential for media campaigns addressing sociocultural norms to be a tool for prevention.

We provided a review of gun restriction and safety policies, and their potential effectiveness in addressing youth firearm violence (while also acknowledging the political climate wherein such policies have been increasingly challenged). We point out that some recent firearm related policies, purportedly race neutral in their language, had harmful impacts specifically on communities and people of color.

Individual level interventions or policies that seek to address only one piece of the puzzle are bound to be ineffective at scale. Rather, what is required are multisector, place-based initiatives that address structural factors related to poverty and the built environment in under-resourced segregated neighborhoods.

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-warnings-from-democrats-about-project-2025-and-donald-trump

Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

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