Topic Selection
Videos
Topic Selection Video
See the Topic Selection Module on our Canvas site for the course video
Readings
"Engagement: Address your Audience's Needs, Values," The Word Factory "Possible Student Projects," Office of Sustainability Magnetic SwipeCard System Security," Ramsbrock et al "Readers and Context of Use," Pearson (pages 38-43) Responses
Discussion Response One
Analysis of a Project Topic: See expanded directions
Discussion Response Two
Post three potential topic ideas. Then respond to at least three classmate's project topic ideas.
|
Selecting a Topic
One of the most important things you'll do this semester is select an appropriate and effective project topic to explore. We will follow the Problem-Solving model: everyone will identify a real problem and find an equally real, accessible, open-to-your-suggestions audience who needs a solution to this problem. The Topic Selection videos, readings, and project description examples are intended to help you identify a workable topic that you find engaging.
Sample Project Topic Ideas/Analysis of a Project Topic
Below you'll find a link to four potential topic ideas submitted by students in prior semesters. Please read all four closely and identify whether the topic of each one is either ready to go; needs work; or is not appropriate for our purposes.
Then, choose one of the "needs work" topics, and provide a brief analysis (300-500 words) describing what could be done to this topic to make it an effective one for this semester-long project. You may find it useful to review the Topic Selection Video for a refresher on making topics workable for our purposes. Please post your responses in the appropriate Discussion thread. Potential Topic Examples |