Topic Development in the Freshman Engineering Paper: Finding a Focus. Issue 2 (3rd April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eckel, Edward J.
• Is Part Of: Science & technology libraries. Volume 38:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 137
• Page End: 160
• Publication Date: 2019-04-03
• Subjects: Topic development -- focus formulation -- novice researchers -- engineering education; Science and technology libraries -- Periodicals; Wetenschappelijke bibliotheken; Natuurwetenschappen; Techniek; Sciences -- Bibliothèques -- Périodiques; Technologie -- Bibliothèques -- Périodiques; Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); 026.5
• DOI: 10.1080/0194262X.2019.1566042
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0194-262X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Topic development and focus are relatively neglected areas of the student research process. This study examined how students in a freshman engineering writing class developed initial research paper topics into focused thesis statements. A mixed methods approach was used, incorporating online surveys, qualitative interviews, and a rubric to track topic development and assess thesis statement focus. The survey results and student comments indicated that participants were more competent at the mechanics of finding sources and writing than at developing appropriately scoped thesis statements. Closer collaboration between writing instructors and librarians is urged to more effectively support and scaffold topic development.