Week 9: Capstone Discussion Question

I found the process of finding sources and evaluating them to be the most valuable.  It was through this process that I gained a much deeper understanding of the topic, and how to pursue additional research items.  This process also served to help narrow the scope of the topic to a more manageable level.  Finally, as more materials were assessed it made for a much better paper due the additional resources.

The primary benefit of conducting research is to get a much better grasp of the topic; both for dissenting and agreeing viewpoints.  A secondary benefit to doing the research is it offers an opportunity to evaluate your hypothesis against what others have said.  Finally, it is through the analysis of the sources that their applicability to the topic and thesis are evaluated, as well as the validity of using the source; all of which is critical to writing an effective research paper.

I will continue to use, and hone, these techniques for my future college writings.  Professionally, I will use these techniques as I research complex projects, both for their implementation and support.

© Erik Smith 2005
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