Page 28 - Exhibit No. 3 Copies of Instructional Materials Actually Used

Research Topics

Research is a systematic process. The first step in research is identifying a
topic. Research topic broadly defines the area of research. They are not the same as
the title of the research study. And there is need of further work to become feasible
research studies.

Conceptualizing research topic according to Moyer, (2011) would include:

1. Finding your focus
• Which aspects of your discipline interest you most?
• What have you observed that you have questions about?
• What articles have you read that have raised questions in your mind?

2. What are the gaps in the literature?
• By topic (what is not being looked at?)
• Methods (what is not being done?)
• Populations (who is not being studied?)
• Comparisons (who is not being compared?)

3. Where to start?
• Read
• Detailed literature searches
• Attend seminars, conferences and presentations
• Discuss subject area with peers Listen and ask questions

4. Refining research topics
• discuss with fellow researchers

• Discuss with stakeholders
• Assess what is most critical to learn
• Assess research sources available

5. Questions to ask yourself
• Is this a good idea?
• Who cares?
• Can it be addressed using appropriate research methods
• Will it stimulate interest by others and the sponsors?
• Is it feasible/practical/doable?
• Is it fundable?

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Nursing Research I