Writing Assignment| Exploring Gender: Researching Topics in the Online Library Database

Purpose

The purpose of this activity is to to develop research skills by searching for articles related to gender in the online library database collection. Students will select a topic of their choice within the broad theme of gender and critically analyze relevant academic sources.

Introduction

This activity will enhance your research skills by exploring the vast collection of articles available in the online library databases, focusing on topics related to gender. By selecting a specific gender-related theme of your interest and critically analyzing relevant academic sources, you will gain valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of gender and its implications in society. 

The topic of gender was chosen for this activity to complement the close reading of Susan Glaspell’s Trifles, a play that explores gender roles and the oppression faced by women in the early 20th century. By researching and analyzing gender-related topics, students can deepen their understanding of the play’s themes and engage in critical discussions about the significance of gender in literature and society.

Instructions

1. Review the learning activities in this module
2. Choose a topic of interest that is related to gender. Explore the various topics of gender, please avoid simply researching the term “gender.” Select a focused and specific topic that allows for in-depth exploration and analysis.
3. Use the Valencia Library Database Collection to research contemporary gender issues. Apply what you learned in this module about effective search strategies and keywords. 
4. Critically evaluate the credibility and reliability of the sources you find. Apply what you learned in this module about source evaluation and credibility. If you find sources that do not meet your credibility test, keep researching! Only use sources that are credible. 
5. Once you have gathered a list of potential articles, select a minimum of three articles that are most relevant to your topic and align with the evaluation criteria. 
6. Read and analyze the selected articles critically. Summarize the main arguments, methodologies, and findings of each article. Identify common themes, varied viewpoints, or gaps in the existing research related to your topic.
7. Follow the submission requirements listed below.

Submission Requirements

1. Write a brief paragraph that introduces your chosen topic related to gender. The submission should include a clear and focused research question or objective. In your paragraph, consider the following:
   • Explain why this topic matters to you personally. Share any experiences, observations, or motivations that led you to select this topic. This step helps create a connection between your research and your own interests or experiences.
   • Describe why you chose this particular topic. What aspects of it intrigued you? Did you encounter any specific issues, questions, or controversies related to this topic that piqued your curiosity?
   • Clearly state your research question or objective. This is the central focus of your research and should be specific and concise. It should guide your investigation into the chosen topic.
2. List the databases you explored, along with the search terms and keywords used during research. This will demonstrate your search strategy and the extent of your database exploration.
3. Write a short paragraph for at least three articles related to your chosen topic. Each paragraph should provide a concise summary of the article, its relevance to the research question, and a brief evaluation of its credibility and value.
4. Write a short paragraph for each article that includes key findings, analysis of the selected articles, and critical insights. Include relevant quotes and personal reactions regarding the article/quotes. Follow guidelines for MLA9 in-text documentation.
5. Write a brief reflection statement discussing your research process, challenges encountered, and insights gained during their exploration of gender-related topics. Reflect on how your understanding of the topic has evolved through the research experience.
6. Include a MLA Works Cited page that lists all articles used for this assignment. Be sure all articles come from the Valencia College Library Database Collection. 

Guidelines

1. MLA Works Cited page with 3 sources
2. All sources must come from the Valencia Library Database Collection
3. All steps listed above complete