Assignment:
Overview:
Throughout the course, you will develop a research paper on a particular theory or concept within the field of adult learning. The goal is to develop critical thinking and research skills which consider possibilities beyond the superficial. The paper should present an argument in favor of or against a particular point of view on a topic related to adult learning theory. Need Assignment Help?
Requirements: This paper should
1. Include a cover page, 4-6 pages of text, and a reference page.
2. Follow APA conventions
- Times New Roman, 12 point font;
- Double-spaced, including the list of references.
- Do not put extra space between paragraphs. Indent new paragraphs
- Introduce quotes with signal phrase
- List references in alphabetical order; double space; hanging indent
3. Include a minimum of six in-text citations from six sources: two be scholarly sources; two from course materials; two from other reliable sources identified in the Stevenson databases. Use a combination of direct quotes, paraphrased information, and summary.
4. Write in third person. Do not use first or second person pronouns.
Step 1: Topic Selection and Research question
Select one of the following topics for your research paper. Do some casual research on the topic to learn more about it, and then formulate a research question to help guide your search for articles. Refer to Information Literacy Lesson 1.
- Andragogy vs. Pedagogy
- Self-Directed Learning
- Covey's "7 Habits" and adult learning theory
- Covey's Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw: Principles of balanced self-renewal and its implication for adult learners
- Mindset: Fixed and Growth - see attached article by Carol Dweck (2008) - Impact of attitude on adult learning
- Power of metacognition and reflection for adult learners
- Life-long learning for the 21st century
Step 2: Research - Thinking Critically About Sources
Refer to Information Literacy Lessons 2 and 3.
For this step find and evaluate one source from the Stevenson database using the "Thinking Critically about Sources" worksheet in Module 2 to evaluate the source.
For this paper, you will need a minimum of six sources: four sources must come from the Stevenson databases and at least two of these must come from scholarly journals; two other sources must come from articles, videos, or other course materials. You may not use web sources other than the college databases.
Step 3: Continue Search for Articles - due Modules 3 and 4
For this paper, you will need a minimum of six sources, four of which must be obtained through the Stevenson database and course materials. Continue this search for articles through Modules 3 and 4. Use the "Thinking Critically About Sources Worksheet" as a guide in selecting remaining resources. Annotate the articles as you read and take notes. This will save time when you come to write the rough draft.
Step 4: Sentence Outline
Refer to example in the Module.
Take a position (make a claim) on a topic that can be defended (thesis statement) and provide reasons that support your claim followed by evidence for each reason. Follow the template provided in the module. This Claim-Reasons-Evidence approach will help you to produce a well-organized and well-supported paper. Do not write the draft of the research paper until you receive my feedback on your outline.
Step 5: Draft of Research Paper
A draft is the first writing of the research paper. It contains all the elements that a final paper does, but the term "draft" means just that - it is not expected to be perfect. The draft must be submitted to Smart thinking and the instructor for feedback which should guide the revision process. The Draft Research Paper should follow the same organization and particulars delineated in the final Research Paper stage below.
Step 6: Revise and Edit your Draft - due Module 6
Do not begin to revise as soon as you finish your first draft. Take a break and wait for valuable feedback. Read the paper through at least twice. Focus on the overall concepts first, and save the minute errors for last. Once you are satisfied with the content of your paper, read through it slowly one sentence at a time to help find grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Read the paper out loud and use the Word editor to catch errors. Check that the paper follows APA style. Follow revision guidelines and suggestions from Smart thinking tutors and instructor.
Step 7: Research Paper-Final Draft- due end of Module 7
Refer to APA Style Guide pp. 26 - 32 for guidance with APA format; see section 8 for in-text citations; sections 9 and 10 before submitting the final draft.
APA Style Points:
1. All ideas that are not your original thoughts must have in-text citations giving credit to the author and, with the exception of personal communication, a reference list entry.
2. Keep verbatim quotes to a minimum. Instead, paraphrase whenever possible. Paraphrasing demonstrates understanding and assessment of information and strengthens an argument. You must include in-text citations for paraphrased information just as you would for a quote.
3. Quoting matters:
a. Do not begin or end a paragraph with a direct quotation. Remember, you are the writer and you are making a point. Quotes merely support the point(s) that you are making.
b. Avoid "dropped quotes." Introduce all quotes with a signal phrase.
c. Block indent quotes that are 40 words or more (should be used minimally).
4. Evidence should come from quality sources such as peer-reviewed journals, books, or scholarly websites (Wikipedia is not permitted) or government websites.
5. Follow writing guidelines using Concise Guide to APA Style 7th edition.