NEW 102: Global Transformations
Resources to Help You Learn More About Your Topic
There are many resources you can use to start exploring your topic. Below are some of the library databases that might be the most helpful at this stage of the research process.
- CQ Press Library This link opens in a new windowCQ Researcher is a complete source for in-depth, analytical reporting on the most current and controversial issues.
- Opposing Viewpoints In Context This link opens in a new windowOpposing Viewpoints in Context provides materials supporting different points of view on current social issues.
- Gale eBooks This link opens in a new window
A searchable collection of encyclopedias, almanacs, and specialized reference sources for multidisciplinary research.
Short Videos to Help you Refine Your Topic
Choosing a topic and narrowing it to something that is do-able for an academic research paper can be one of the most challenging aspects of doing research.
Watch this short video for some excellent tips including phrasing your topic in this way to keep your topic appropriately narrow for your assignment:
I'm studying __________
to investigate _____________
in order to understand ____________.
One way to explore and refine your topic, as well as to generate useful keywords, is to create a concept map.
A concept map is a visual diagram that maps actual or possible relationships between different concepts. It can help you narrow your topic from something broad like "vegetarianism" to a more specific research question like, "What are the environmental benefits of vegetarianism, and what steps can we take to encourage people to adopt a vegetarian diet?" Here is an example of a concept map on the broad topic of "vegetarianism."
The short video below shows you how to create a concept map.
Concept Mapping Tool
This UA Library online mind mapping tool is a good way to get started with creating your own mind map/concept map.
Alternatively, the Claremont Colleges Library has a good document you can download to create your concept map.
Developing Your Topic Worksheet
This worksheet is designed to take you through a guided set of questions that will help you to choose your topic, narrow it, and identify keywords you might use to search for sources.
- Developing Your Research Topic Worksheet Fillable PDF
The ASU Library acknowledges the twenty-three Native Nations that have inhabited this land for centuries. Arizona State University's four campuses are located in the Salt River Valley on ancestral territories of Indigenous peoples, including the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and Pee Posh (Maricopa) Indian Communities, whose care and keeping of these lands allows us to be here today. ASU Library acknowledges the sovereignty of these nations and seeks to foster an environment of success and possibility for Native American students and patrons. We are advocates for the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge systems and research methodologies within contemporary library practice. ASU Library welcomes members of the Akimel O’odham and Pee Posh, and all Native nations to the Library.
