Survey: Where Are You Coming In?
First Year: 14 votes (25.45%)
Sophomore: 17 votes (30.91%)
Junior: 6 votes (10.91%)
Senior: 6 votes (10.91%)
-: 12 votes (21.82%)
Total Votes: 55
I have a few broad environmental issues in mind, but I’m having a hard time narrowing and choosing just one.: 3 votes (11.11%)
I have a specific environmental issue in mind, but I am not sure how to find a religious organization involved with it.: 20 votes (74.07%)
Some other scenario: 1 votes (3.7%)
I have no idea where to start!: 0 votes (0%)
-: 3 votes (11.11%)
Total Votes: 27
Science Librarian
Head of Instruction and Assessment
Follow the data to find your topic
Learning Outcomes
In today's Research Session, you will:
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Use both divergent (ideation) and convergent (focusing on one path) thinking in order to choose an environmental issue and religious/faith organizational focus for your research project.
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Practice persistence, adaptability, and flexibility throughout your research process
Ideation Exercise: Think-Share + Post Ideas
In your groups, share out and discuss the different environmental issues you are individually or collectively considering. Specifically discuss the following:
- What are the different issues you're considering?
- What have you learned from any initial background research on the topic.
- How might that research refine your issue focus?
- What is the interest level in this topic within the group? Rank it.
- How do you think religious or faith organizations might respond to, influence, or advocate for your top ranked issue? Use the Padlet below to share your ideas with the class.
Converge Exercise: Follow the data to find convergences
Use this Google Form Worksheet. You'll be emailed your answers when you turn it in and we'll share them with Professor Robinson-Bertoni.
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Academic Search CompleteA multidisciplinary database providing access to more than 8,500 full-text periodicals, including more than 7,300 peer-reviewed journals. It also offers indexing and abstracts for more than 12,500 journals. Covers a wide range of academic topics including business, education, social sciences, humanities, science, & engineering. Coverage varies, with some publications going back to 1911.
Sample Search:
Thinking About Topic Scope
The scope of your topic may be too broad if:
- A search for your topic yields hundreds or even thousands of results, and they all seem relevant
The scope of your topic may be too narrow if:
- A search for your topic yields very few results, and very few seem relevant, and you've consulted with a librarian
- You can't find data and statistics relevant to your topic