Dr. Steven L. Berg--Home Page

Construct a Star Diagram

For this activity you will use your background and interests to come up with potential research topics. Note emphasis on the words "potential" and "topics." This exercise is similar to brainstorming because you are expected to generate a list of ideas--not one single idea--about which you could write. Later, you can assess whether or not the potential topics fit the course requirements and if they interest you enough for you to spend the time necessary to write a good research paper.

Required Materials

This learning activity requires the following resources:

Directions

The first week of January 2004, I completed the star diagram as if I were preparing to write a research paper on the Middle East. You will see my work as you complete the following steps.

Step 1:
Make Yourself a Star

Step 2:
Consider Your Demographics

Step 3:
Consider Your Roles

Step 4:
Consider Your Interests

Step 5:
Consider Your Work History

Step 6:
Consider Your Education

Step 7:
Consider Decorating

Step 8:
Generate Ideas