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SWK 256

Research Defined

What is Research?

"Studious inquiry or examination; especially :  investigation or experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical application of such new or revised theories or laws" (Merriam-Webster)

Yikes, Let's Break That Down

1. Studious inquiry or examination- studious inquiry includes asking questions deliberately and with great care

2. Discovery and interpretation of facts- finding information and then thinking about that information; taking information and turning it into your knowledge

3. Revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts- learning new information might change your beliefs or interpretation of the world

4. Practical application- using the knowledge gained to produce something like a paper or project  

Ok, So...How Do I Do That?

Keep in Mind Three Things:

  1. Recognize that your research will take time.
     
  2. Remember: your professor is grading you on your ability to perform research, not just the end product.
     
  3. The end product is directly related to the time you spend doing research. 
     

Are There Any Shortcuts?

Searching and using the databases and books the library offers saves you time. One important aspect of research is validating the information you plan to use. Much of the information provided by the library is already peer-reviewed and considered scholarly.