The first step in the research process is selecting a topic that is both interesting and manageable. For this discussion, complete the following-

• Review the Final Research Paper instructions in Week Five, and identify three potential research topics.

• Describe methods that may be helpful in identifying and narrowing your research paper topic.

• Examine two scholarly sources that may prove valuable as you seek to defend your claims.

• Address why scholarly sources should be used to support your writing on the selected topic.

Final Research Paper

Research the responsibility of a critical thinker in a contemporary society. You may choose any topic that deals with a contemporary social concern. Examine the principles of critical thought in relation to the chosen societal concern, and consider the importance of ethics, moral reasoning, a research-based process to search for truth, and the advantages of information technology in gathering data.

Potential social concerns include, but are not limited to health (e.g., obesity, smoking, or underage drinking), poverty (e.g., homelessness, basic needs, or transportation issues), family relations and dynamics (e.g., teen violence, physical abuse, depression, or suicide), social media (e.g., privacy), immigration (e.g., illegal), and education (e.g., plagiarism and/or cheating).

Your Final Research Paper should:

1. Include a literature review of three scholarly sources based on the selected contemporary issue. Analyze the validity of the author's arguments and/or biases.

2. Explain how academic knowledge impacts the social elements and institutions of both local and global communities.

3. Assess how the principles of active citizenship could impact the contemporary issue during the next five to ten years.

4. Include at least one reference to a multimedia component (i.e., podcast, interactive website, blog, or video) and evaluate the relevance of this piece in relationship to academic knowledge and the selected issue.

The paper must be 12 to 14 pages in length (excluding the title and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style. You must use at least 12 scholarly sources, six of which can be found in the Ashford Online Library. Cite your sources within the text of your paper and on the reference page. For information regarding APA, including samples and tutorials, visit the Ashford Writing Center within the Learning Resources tab on the left navigation toolbar.

Writing the Final Research Paper

The Final Research Paper:

1. Must be 12 to 14 double-spaced pages in length, and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.

2. Must include a title page with the following-

? Title of paper

? Student's name

? Course name and number

? Instructor's name

? Date submitted

3. Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.

4. Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.

5. Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.

6. Must use at least 12 scholarly sources, including a minimum of six from the Ashford Online Library.

7. Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.

8. Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.