things to do research on for school

Explore 125 Fun & Interesting Topics to Research: Broaden Your Knowledge!

Do you enjoy learning new things and broadening your knowledge? If so, this article is for you! We’ve compiled a list of 125 fun and interesting topics to research that cover a wide range of subjects. Whether you’re a student looking for an engaging research project or simply someone who loves to learn, this list has something for everyone.

From the latest technology to historical events, explore these topics and awaken your curiosity. You never know what you might discover!

• Our list offers 125 fun and interesting topics to research
• Topics cover a wide range of subjects including technology, history, and more
• Expand your knowledge and satisfy your curiosity
• Perfect for students or anyone looking to learn something new
• Research can lead to unexpected discoveries
• Artificial intelligence in healthcare.
• Cryptocurrency and its impact on the financial world.
• The psychology of decision-making.
• Climate change and its effects on ecosystems.
• The history of the internet.
• Space exploration and colonization.
• The future of renewable energy sources.
• Virtual reality and its applications.
• The impact of social media on society.
• The history of ancient civilizations.
• Nanotechnology and its potential uses.
• Genetic engineering and its ethical implications.
• Cybersecurity and data privacy.
• The science of happiness and well-being.
• The role of women in STEM fields.
• Human evolution and the origins of our species.
• The history and impact of the Industrial Revolution.
• Sustainable agriculture and food security.
• The effects of meditation on the brain.
• Quantum computing and its potential breakthroughs.
• The history and culture of a specific country.
• Neuroplasticity and brain training.
• The impact of automation on employment.
• The psychology of addiction.
• Environmental conservation and biodiversity.
• The history of art movements.
• The philosophy of time.
• The history of philosophy.
• Renewable energy policies around the world.
• The influence of music on emotions.
• The origins and history of a specific language.
• The psychology of dreams.
• The role of ethics in artificial intelligence.
• Ancient and modern architectural styles.
• The impact of climate change on agriculture.
• The history and effects of pandemics.
• Bioluminescent organisms and their ecology.
• The art and science of brewing beer.
• The psychology of marketing and consumer behavior.
• The history of space exploration.
• The philosophy of mind and consciousness.
• The role of women in history.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of storytelling.
• The impact of video games on cognitive skills.
• Artificial intelligence in education.
• The history and impact of the printing press.
• The psychology of prejudice and discrimination.
• Sustainable transportation and urban planning.
• The history of medicine and medical breakthroughs.
• The science of sleep and its importance.
• The role of social media in political movements.
• The philosophy of ethics.
• Ancient and modern culinary traditions.
• The impact of social networking on relationships.
• The history and philosophy of mathematics.
• Renewable energy technologies.
• The psychology of memory and forgetfulness.
• The history of human rights movements.
• The art and science of brewing coffee.
• The effects of climate change on sea levels.
• The history and philosophy of science.
• Environmental policies and conservation efforts.
• The role of women in literature.
• The cultural significance of myths and legends.
• The psychology of creativity and innovation.
• The history of the Olympic Games.
• Renewable energy and urban sustainability.
• The effects of technology on human health.
• The philosophy of artificial intelligence.
• Ancient and modern fashion trends.
• The impact of climate change on wildlife.
• The history and philosophy of religion.
• Space travel and potential interstellar exploration.
• The psychology of motivation.
• The history of the music industry.
• The role of women in politics.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of humor.
• The impact of online learning and e-learning.
• The philosophy of free will.
• Traditional and contemporary dance forms.
• The effects of climate change on indigenous communities.
• The history of human migration.
• Renewable energy and its economic implications.
• The psychology of decision fatigue.
• The history of film and cinema.
• The role of women in the military.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of art therapy.
• The impact of social media on mental health.
• The philosophy of aesthetics.
• Ancient and modern forms of transportation.
• The effects of climate change on agriculture.
• The history of psychology and its pioneers.
• Renewable energy and grid integration.
• The psychology of procrastination.
• The history of photography.
• The role of women in the film industry.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of meditation.
• The impact of online dating on relationships.
• The philosophy of existentialism.
• Traditional and modern forms of music.
• The effects of climate change on coastal regions.
• The history of artificial intelligence.
• Renewable energy and energy storage solutions.
• The psychology of addiction recovery.
• The history of fashion and clothing.
• The role of women in sports.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of laughter.
• The impact of virtual reality on entertainment.
• The philosophy of ethics in technology.
• Ancient and modern forms of communication.
• The effects of climate change on water resources.
• The history of robotics.
• Renewable energy and policy development.
• The psychology of stress and coping.
• The history of architecture.
• The role of women in the music industry.
• Cultural and psychological aspects of color.
• The impact of online shopping on retail.
• The philosophy of environmental ethics.
• Traditional and modern forms of visual arts.
• The effects of climate change on natural disasters.
• The history of the video game industry.
• Renewable energy and its role in rural development.
• The psychology of social networking addiction.
• The history of inventions and innovation.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the healthcare industry, revolutionizing medical diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and patient care. With the ability to analyze large amounts of complex medical data quickly and accurately, AI has the potential to facilitate faster and more accurate diagnoses, leading to better health outcomes for patients.

AI-powered tools can also aid healthcare providers in developing personalized treatment plans by analyzing individual characteristics such as genetics, medical history, and lifestyle factors. This approach can lead to more targeted and effective treatments, improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of adverse side effects.

Additionally, AI is transforming patient care by enabling remote monitoring and real-time response to changes in a patient’s condition. Wearable devices equipped with AI technology can detect and alert healthcare providers to potential health issues, allowing for timely interventions and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

However, the integration of AI in healthcare also presents challenges, such as data privacy concerns, potential biases in algorithms, and the need for comprehensive regulations to ensure patient safety and ethical use of AI.

As AI continues to advance and transform the healthcare industry, it is crucial for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers to work together to ensure that AI is used effectively, ethically, and responsibly to improve patient outcomes and advance the field of medicine.

The World of Cryptocurrency and Its Impact on the Financial World

Virtual currencies have taken the world by storm in recent years and have the potential to revolutionize the global economy. Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security and operates independently of central banks. Bitcoin, the most well-known cryptocurrency, was created in 2009 and has since become a popular alternative to traditional currencies.

The implications of digital currencies on the financial world are vast. They can help reduce transaction costs, promote financial inclusion, and provide greater security and privacy to users. However, there are also concerns about the potential risks associated with cryptocurrencies, such as their association with illegal activities and their volatile nature.

Bitcoin has been the subject of much controversy and debate since its inception. In December 2017, it reached an all-time high of nearly $20,000 before plummeting to around $3,000 in December 2018.

Despite the challenges, many financial institutions are beginning to explore the use of digital currencies, with some even developing their own. The future of cryptocurrency remains uncertain, but it is clear that it is here to stay.

It is important to stay informed about the latest developments in the world of cryptocurrency and how they may affect the financial landscape. Understanding the risks and benefits of digital currencies can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their financial strategies.

The Psychology of Decision-Making

Decision-making is a multifaceted process that is influenced by various factors. Understanding the psychology behind decision-making can help individuals make more informed choices. The human brain processes information, evaluates options, and makes decisions based on a complex interplay of cognitive, emotional, and social factors.

One aspect of decision-making that has gained attention is cognitive biases. These are thought patterns that can lead to irrational decisions. For example, confirmation bias, where individuals seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs while ignoring evidence to the contrary. Another cognitive bias is the sunk cost fallacy, which is the tendency to continue investing in a decision even when the costs outweigh the benefits.

Emotions also play a key role in decision-making. Studies have shown that individuals often make decisions based on how they feel rather than purely rational analysis. Fear, anger, and other emotions can skew decision-making, sometimes leading to irrational or impulsive choices. However, emotions can also motivate individuals to make positive changes or take risks that lead to growth and development.

Understanding the psychology of decision-making can have practical applications in a variety of settings. In business, it can help leaders make more informed decisions regarding resource allocation, risk management, and strategic planning. In healthcare, a better understanding of decision-making processes can improve patient outcomes, inform treatment plans, and enhance communication with healthcare providers.

Overall, the psychology of decision-making is a fascinating area of study with many practical applications. By understanding the cognitive, emotional, and social factors that influence decision-making, individuals can make more informed choices and improve outcomes in various areas of life.

Exploring Climate Change and Its Effects on Ecosystems

Climate change is one of the most significant environmental issues of our time, affecting ecosystems on a global scale. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events have profound consequences for plants, animals, and the communities that depend on them.

One of the most visible effects of climate change is the loss of habitat and biodiversity, with many species facing extinction due to changing conditions. For example, polar bears are losing their sea ice habitat, while coral reefs are dying due to ocean acidification and rising temperatures.

Climate change also affects ecosystem services, which are essential for human well-being. For example, changes in temperature and precipitation can lead to crop failures, affecting food security and the livelihoods of millions of people. Additionally, extreme weather events like hurricanes and droughts can cause economic damage and displacement of communities.

As individuals and communities, we have a role to play in mitigating the effects of climate change. This includes reducing our carbon footprint and supporting policies that promote renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and conservation. By taking action now, we can help protect the ecosystems and communities that depend on them.

The History of the Internet

The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, but its origins and evolution may surprise you. The history of the internet dates back to the 1960s, when the United States Department of Defense developed a communication system called ARPANET. This system allowed computers to communicate with each other, laying the foundation for what would eventually become the internet.

In the following decades, the internet grew and evolved into what we know today. In the 1990s, the World Wide Web was introduced, making it easier for users to access and share information. The development of search engines like Google and web browsers like Internet Explorer further revolutionized how we use the internet.

The internet has had a transformative impact on society, influencing everything from how we communicate to how we do business. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have changed the way we connect with others and share information.

Today, the internet continues to evolve and shape our world. From e-commerce to online education, it has opened up new opportunities and possibilities that were once unimaginable.

The Journey of Space Exploration and Colonization

Since the dawn of time, humans have looked up at the stars and wondered what lies beyond our planet. Space exploration has allowed us to discover new frontiers and push the boundaries of what we thought was possible. From sending the first man to the moon to launching rovers to Mars, the history of space exploration is a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

Today, space agencies from around the world continue to pursue new missions, including the colonization of other planets. The possibility of living on another planet has captivated the imagination of many, with companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin leading the charge.

Space exploration has not been without its challenges and tragedies, such as the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster. However, these setbacks have only strengthened our resolve to continue exploring and expanding our knowledge of the universe.

As we look to the future of space exploration and colonization , there are many questions and challenges that need to be addressed. How will we sustain life on other planets? What impact will colonization have on the environment and indigenous life forms? Despite these uncertainties, the potential benefits of discovering and inhabiting new worlds are too great to ignore.

With ongoing missions to Mars and beyond, space exploration and colonization will undoubtedly continue to capture our imaginations for years to come.

The Future of Renewable Energy Sources

As the world continues to move towards sustainable energy solutions, renewable energy sources have become an increasingly important topic of research. From solar and wind power to geothermal and hydropower, the potential benefits of renewable energy are vast.

One significant advantage of renewable energy is its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and improve air quality. Additionally, renewable energy sources offer a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional fossil fuels, decreasing our dependence on finite resources.

Researchers are making significant strides in renewable energy technology, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. For instance, advancements in photovoltaic cells are increasing the efficiency and affordability of solar power, making it more accessible to households and businesses.

Another exciting area of research is the potential of renewable energy to power transportation. Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, and renewable energy can provide the necessary energy to charge them, further reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

Despite the many benefits of renewable energy, there are still challenges that must be overcome. One significant obstacle is the intermittency of some renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, which may not be available all the time. Researchers are exploring storage technologies, such as batteries and hydrogen fuel cells, to address this challenge and ensure a steady supply of energy.

Overall, the future of renewable energy is bright, with researchers and scientists working towards developing sustainable energy sources that can power our world without harming the planet. By investing in research and innovation, we can continue to make significant strides towards a cleaner, brighter future.

The Impact of Virtual Reality and Its Applications

Virtual reality (VR) technology has been making waves in recent years, transforming the way we experience reality. The applications of VR go beyond entertainment and encompass various fields, from education to healthcare to training. With virtual reality, users can immerse themselves in simulated environments, creating a sense of presence and interaction with the virtual world.

One fascinating use of VR is in education. Schools and universities are adopting VR technology to create immersive learning experiences, using simulations to help students visualize complex concepts and historical events. VR can also help bridge the gap between theory and practice, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

In healthcare, VR is being used for everything from pain management to surgical training. By creating virtual environments, doctors can help patients manage pain and anxiety, reducing the need for medication. In surgical training, VR can provide a safe and controlled environment for students to practice procedures without the risk of harm to patients.

VR is also being used in the field of psychology to treat phobias and anxiety disorders. By exposing patients to simulated environments that trigger their fears, therapists can help them overcome their phobias in a controlled and gradual manner.

The potential uses of VR are vast, and the technology is still evolving. As advancements continue, we can expect to see VR transform various industries, from gaming to architecture to engineering.

The Impact of Social Media on Society

Social media has become a ubiquitous presence in our daily lives, influencing the way we interact with each other and consume information. The ability to connect with others instantly and share our thoughts and experiences with the world has opened up new avenues of communication and self-expression.

However, the impact of social media on society is not all positive. One of the most significant concerns is the effect it has on mental health. Studies have linked excessive social media use with increased feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. The pressure to present a curated and perfect online self can lead to negative self-esteem and body image issues.

Privacy is another area of concern. The amount of personal data we share on social media platforms can leave us vulnerable to identity theft and other forms of online fraud. Additionally, the rise of fake news and misinformation has led to a decrease in trust in traditional media and democratic institutions.

Despite these concerns, social media also has the power to bring about positive change. It can be used to connect people with similar interests and causes, facilitate social and political activism, and amplify voices that may have otherwise been marginalized.

It is essential to recognize both the benefits and drawbacks of social media to make informed decisions about our usage. By being mindful of how we use social media and taking steps to protect our privacy and mental health, we can take advantage of its positive aspects while mitigating its negative effects.

Human civilization has come a long way, and the history of ancient civilizations holds a fascinating story. From the construction of the pyramids to the creation of democracy, ancient civilizations have shaped our world in ways we may not even realize.

The ancient civilization of Egypt is often referred to as the cradle of civilization, and for good reason. The civilization flourished between 3100 and 30 B.C and was responsible for impressive feats such as the construction of the Great Sphinx and the pyramids of Giza.

Ancient Greece is another civilization that had a significant impact on the world. The Greeks made monumental advancements in philosophy, mathematics, and science, and their legacy is still present in modern society today.

Rome is another civilization that left an indelible mark on the world. The Roman Empire was one of the most extensive and powerful empires in history, and its impact on modern-day law, government, and religion cannot be overstated.

Mesopotamia is another ancient civilization that we can’t forget. The Mesopotamians were responsible for important innovations such as the wheel, the plow, and the first form of writing, Cuneiform.

Studying ancient civilizations shines a light on the past and helps us understand how we got to where we are today. By exploring different cultural practices and ancient lifestyles, we can learn valuable lessons and gain new perspectives.

Take a deep dive into the history of ancient civilizations and explore the legacy left by some of the world’s earliest societies.

Nanotechnology and Its Potential Uses

Nanotechnology is a rapidly growing field that deals with the manipulation of materials at the nano level. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries and impact our daily lives in numerous ways. The prefix “nano” means one billionth, and at this scale, the behavior of matter can be different than what we observe at the macro level.

The use of nanotechnology has immense potential in the fields of medicine, electronics, energy, and materials science. In medicine, researchers are developing targeted drug delivery systems that can release drugs in a specific location in the body, minimizing side effects. Nanoparticles are also being used to develop sensors that can detect diseases at an early stage.

The potential applications of nanotechnology are vast, but there are also concerns about its safety and ethical implications. It is essential to understand the risks associated with the use of nanoparticles and how they interact with biological systems. Researchers are working to ensure the safe use of nanotechnology and to address the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

Overall, the field of nanotechnology is exciting and holds great promise for the future. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries and transform our daily lives. With continued research and development, we can unlock the full potential of nanotechnology and utilize its benefits to make our world a better place.

Genetic Engineering and Its Ethical Implications

Genetic engineering, the process of manipulating the genes of an organism or creating a new one altogether, has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation. However, along with its benefits, it brings a set of ethical concerns that must be addressed.

One of the ethical issues surrounding genetic engineering is the possibility of creating “designer babies” – children whose genes are deliberately modified to enhance their physical or mental characteristics. This process raises questions about the morality of creating a child to fit specific criteria, potentially leading to further social and economic inequality.

Another ethical concern is the potential for genetic discrimination. If genetic testing becomes widespread, individuals with certain genetic predispositions may face discrimination in employment or insurance coverage. Genetic engineering could also worsen existing inequalities between different groups by facilitating the creation of genetically modified “superhumans.”

Environmental and biodiversity concerns are also raised by genetic engineering. The introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the environment could have unintended consequences on ecosystems, potentially causing harm to native species and disrupting natural biodiversity.

As the field of genetic engineering continues to evolve, it is important to consider the ethical implications and potential consequences of its use. While it offers the potential for great advancements and benefits, it must be used responsibly and with careful consideration of its impact on society and the environment.

There you have it – a comprehensive list of 125 fun and interesting topics to research. Whether you’re a student, a knowledge enthusiast, or simply looking for a new hobby, these topics have something for everyone.

From the impact of artificial intelligence in healthcare to the future of renewable energy sources , the world of cryptocurrency and its impact on the financial world , the psychology of decision-making , and uncovering the history of ancient civilizations , there is an endless array of subjects to explore and learn about.

So, what are you waiting for? Embark on a journey of intellectual discovery, satisfy your curiosity, and broaden your knowledge with these fascinating topics. Who knows – you might even discover a passion for a subject you never knew existed!

Can I use these research topics for academic purposes?

Absolutely! These topics are suitable for both academic research projects and personal exploration.

Are there any limitations on the use of these topics?

There are no limitations on the use of these topics. Feel free to choose and explore any topic that piques your interest.

How can I conduct research on these topics?

You can start by gathering information from reputable sources such as scholarly articles, books, and online databases. Conducting surveys or interviews can also provide valuable insights.

Can I modify the research topics to suit my specific interests?

Absolutely! These topics are meant to be a starting point, and you are welcome to modify them to align with your interests and goals.

Are these topics suitable for all age groups?

Yes, these topics are suitable for individuals of all age groups. However, younger researchers may need guidance and supervision depending on the complexity of the topic.

Can I suggest a topic to be added to the list?

Of course! We value your suggestions and would love to hear your ideas. Please feel free to contact us with your topic suggestions.

Baron Cooke has been writing and editing for 7 years. He grew up with an aptitude for geometry, statistics, and dimensions. He has a BA in construction management and also has studied civil infrastructure, engineering, and measurements. He is the head writer of measuringknowhow.com

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1000+ FREE Research Topics & Title Ideas

If you’re at the start of your research journey and are trying to figure out which research topic you want to focus on, you’ve come to the right place. Select your area of interest below to view a comprehensive collection of potential research ideas.

Research Topic FAQs

What (exactly) is a research topic.

A research topic is the subject of a research project or study – for example, a dissertation or thesis. A research topic typically takes the form of a problem to be solved, or a question to be answered.

A good research topic should be specific enough to allow for focused research and analysis. For example, if you are interested in studying the effects of climate change on agriculture, your research topic could focus on how rising temperatures have impacted crop yields in certain regions over time.

To learn more about the basics of developing a research topic, consider our free research topic ideation webinar.

What constitutes a good research topic?

A strong research topic comprises three important qualities : originality, value and feasibility.

• Originality – a good topic explores an original area or takes a novel angle on an existing area of study.
• Value – a strong research topic provides value and makes a contribution, either academically or practically.
• Feasibility – a good research topic needs to be practical and manageable, given the resource constraints you face.

To learn more about what makes for a high-quality research topic, check out this post .

What's the difference between a research topic and research problem?

A research topic and a research problem are two distinct concepts that are often confused. A research topic is a broader label that indicates the focus of the study , while a research problem is an issue or gap in knowledge within the broader field that needs to be addressed.

To illustrate this distinction, consider a student who has chosen “teenage pregnancy in the United Kingdom” as their research topic. This research topic could encompass any number of issues related to teenage pregnancy such as causes, prevention strategies, health outcomes for mothers and babies, etc.

Within this broad category (the research topic) lies potential areas of inquiry that can be explored further – these become the research problems . For example:

• What factors contribute to higher rates of teenage pregnancy in certain communities?
• How do different types of parenting styles affect teen pregnancy rates?
• What interventions have been successful in reducing teenage pregnancies?

Simply put, a key difference between a research topic and a research problem is scope ; the research topic provides an umbrella under which multiple questions can be asked, while the research problem focuses on one specific question or set of questions within that larger context.

How can I find potential research topics for my project?

There are many steps involved in the process of finding and choosing a high-quality research topic for a dissertation or thesis. We cover these steps in detail in this video (also accessible below).

How can I find quality sources for my research topic?

Finding quality sources is an essential step in the topic ideation process. To do this, you should start by researching scholarly journals, books, and other academic publications related to your topic. These sources can provide reliable information on a wide range of topics. Additionally, they may contain data or statistics that can help support your argument or conclusions.

Identifying Relevant Sources

When searching for relevant sources, it’s important to look beyond just published material; try using online databases such as Google Scholar or JSTOR to find articles from reputable journals that have been peer-reviewed by experts in the field.

You can also use search engines like Google or Bing to locate websites with useful information about your topic. However, be sure to evaluate any website before citing it as a source—look for evidence of authorship (such as an “About Us” page) and make sure the content is up-to-date and accurate before relying on it.

Evaluating Sources

Once you’ve identified potential sources for your research project, take some time to evaluate them thoroughly before deciding which ones will best serve your purpose. Consider factors such as author credibility (are they an expert in their field?), publication date (is the source current?), objectivity (does the author present both sides of an issue?) and relevance (how closely does this source relate to my specific topic?).

By researching the current literature on your topic, you can identify potential sources that will help to provide quality information. Once you’ve identified these sources, it’s time to look for a gap in the research and determine what new knowledge could be gained from further study.

How can I find a good research gap?

Finding a strong gap in the literature is an essential step when looking for potential research topics. We explain what research gaps are and how to find them in this post.

How should I evaluate potential research topics/ideas?

When evaluating potential research topics, it is important to consider the factors that make for a strong topic (we discussed these earlier). Specifically:

• Originality
• Feasibility

So, when you have a list of potential topics or ideas, assess each of them in terms of these three criteria. A good topic should take a unique angle, provide value (either to academia or practitioners), and be practical enough for you to pull off, given your limited resources.

Finally, you should also assess whether this project could lead to potential career opportunities such as internships or job offers down the line. Make sure that you are researching something that is relevant enough so that it can benefit your professional development in some way. Additionally, consider how each research topic aligns with your career goals and interests; researching something that you are passionate about can help keep motivation high throughout the process.

How can I assess the feasibility of a research topic?

When evaluating the feasibility and practicality of a research topic, it is important to consider several factors.

First, you should assess whether or not the research topic is within your area of competence. Of course, when you start out, you are not expected to be the world’s leading expert, but do should at least have some foundational knowledge.

Time commitment

When considering a research topic, you should think about how much time will be required for completion. Depending on your field of study, some topics may require more time than others due to their complexity or scope.

Additionally, if you plan on collaborating with other researchers or institutions in order to complete your project, additional considerations must be taken into account such as coordinating schedules and ensuring that all parties involved have adequate resources available.

Resources needed

It’s also critically important to consider what type of resources are necessary in order to conduct the research successfully. This includes physical materials such as lab equipment and chemicals but can also include intangible items like access to certain databases or software programs which may be necessary depending on the nature of your work. Additionally, if there are costs associated with obtaining these materials then this must also be factored into your evaluation process.

Potential risks

It’s important to consider the inherent potential risks for each potential research topic. These can include ethical risks (challenges getting ethical approval), data risks (not being able to access the data you’ll need), technical risks relating to the equipment you’ll use and funding risks (not securing the necessary financial back to undertake the research).

If you’re looking for more information about how to find, evaluate and select research topics for your dissertation or thesis, check out our free webinar here . Alternatively, if you’d like 1:1 help with the topic ideation process, consider our private coaching services .

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

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How to do Research in High School: Everything You Need to Know

If you are passionate about a certain subject, doing research in that field is a fantastic way to explore your interests, set the building blocks for a future career, and stand out on college applications. However, for many students, the idea of conducting research seems daunting and inaccessible while in high school and the question of where to start remains a mystery. This guide’s goal is to provide a starter for any students interested in high school research.

Research experience for high school students: Why do research?

Research is a fantastic way to delve into a field of interest. Research students at Lumiere have investigated everything, from ways to detect ocean health, new machine learning algorithms, and the artists of the 19th century. Engaging in research means you can familiarize yourself with a professional environment and develop high-level research skills early on; working with experts means you might discover things you may have never dreamed of before. You are given a valuable opportunity to think ahead and ask yourself foundational questions:

“Is this what I want in a future career?”

“What do I like and dislike about this process?”

As a huge plus (and do not underestimate the value of this!), you will likely gain extremely valuable connections, mentors, and recommenders in working closely with your team.

Let’s face it, the college selection process is becoming more and more competitive each year and admission teams are always looking for new ways to distinguish strong candidates. Doing a research project shows that you are someone with passions and, more importantly, someone with a willingness to take the extra step and explore those passions. You showcase your abilities, ambition, work ethic, eagerness to learn, and professionalism, all at the same time. This will no doubt help you when the time for college applications rolls around.

How to do research in high school: finding opportunities

Now that we’ve covered the ‘why’, let’s cover the ‘how’! There are two ways you can go about this, and it’s a great idea to run these in parallel so that one can serve as a backup for the other.

1. Identify research opportunities and apply strategically: Some opportunities are recurring programs. Usually, these are advertised. These can be structured research programs or internships run by universities, non-profits or government departments.

Organization and preparation were key to my own application processes, so be sure to start thinking ahead. Note that most research programs take place in the summer and require applications that are due by January or February. Make a spreadsheet of programs you’d be interested in and take note of their application deadlines, cost, required materials, etc. Applications often have you write essays and submit recommendation letters, so you want to think about those in advance as well.

2. Cold email to find research opportunities that are not advertised: Another way to pursue research outside of the programs is to try contacting people directly and get involved in their research projects. This would mainly involve university faculty, but you might also find a mentor elsewhere; for instance, if you are interested in medical work, you could contact someone at your local hospital. If you are interested in government, you might reach out to your local representative. If you don’t have any personal connections with faculty members in your field, cold emailing them is the way to go. You’ll need to email a lot of researchers; chances are some are busy, some aren’t in need of interns, and some simply don’t check their emails. To up your chances, you should try reaching out to at least 25 people of interest.

For cold emailing, you’ll be asking for opportunities that may not be advertised. You’ll need to prepare an “email template” of sorts that you’ll be sending out to everyone. It should start with an introduction—who are you, where are you from, how do you know this person—and include a set of your skills and interests that you could bring to the table. Keep this email short, friendly and to the point. Don’t be afraid to follow-up if they don’t respond within the first two weeks! Your message might have just gotten lost in their inbox. You’ll also want to update your resumé to attach to the email be sure to include any relevant coursework, accomplishments, and experience in the field.

Types of research opportunities for high school students

1. do a structured research program in high school.

Structured research programs are excellent ways to gain experience under some top researchers and university faculty, and often include stays at actual labs or college campuses with a wide variety of peers, mentors, and faculty. Examples of some competitive research programs include Research Science Institute (RSI) hosted by MIT, the Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) offered by Carnegie Mellon, and a program hosted by the Baker Institute at Rice University for students interested in political science. For more options, here’s a list of 24 programs for this upcoming summer that we’ve compiled for you!

Another great way of deep-diving into an area of your interest and doing university-level research is through 1-1 mentorship.

Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, Lumiere offers its own structured research programs in which ambitious high school students work 1-1 with top PhDs and develop and independent research paper.

Students have had the opportunity to work on customized research projects across STEM, social sciences, AI and business. Lumiere’s growing network of mentors currently has over 700, carefully selected PhDs from top universities who are passionate about leading the next generation of researchers. The program is fully virtual! You can find the application form here .

Also check out the Lumiere Research inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students.

Veritas AI’s Summer Fellowship Program

Veritas AI has a range of AI programs for ambitious high school students , starting from close-group, collaborative learning to customized project pathways with 1:1 mentorship . The programs have been designed and run by Harvard graduate students & alumni.

In the AI Fellowship, you will create a novel AI project independently with the support of a mentor over 12-15 weeks. Examples of past projects can be found here .

Apply now !

2. Work with a professor in high school

Research typically asks for an advisor, professional, or mentor. So how does someone end up doing research with a researcher in high school? The very first thing you need to do is identify an area of interest. If you really enjoy biology at school, perfect. If you find history fascinating, you’ve found your topic. The important thing is that you’re truly interested in this area; any discipline is fair game!

3. Participate in competitions and fairs

There are many research competitions and fairs available for high school students to participate in. For example, the Davidson Institute offers cash scholarships for student projects in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, literature, music, or philosophy. The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair is a particularly well-known competition for students who have completed independent research projects. Research fairs are a great way to motivate students in pursuing their own interests, showing initiative and drive. Winning a competition also looks great on a resumé! Check out Lumiere’s guide to research competitions here .

4. Pursue your own passion projects

A passion project can mean more than just a presentation made for competition. For example, a student I know created an app to track music trends at our school and then analyzed the data on his own—just for fun! It was a great story to include on his future internship applications. Take a look at Lumiere’s guide for passion projects here .

5. Write a research paper

Once you’ve pursued your own research project, writing a research paper is a next great step. This way, you have a writing sample you’ll be able to send to colleges as an additional supplement, or to labs and researchers for future opportunities. It’s also a fantastic exercise in writing. We know that many high school students might struggle with learning how to write a research paper on their own. This is something you might work with your high school science teacher on, or with the guidance of a Lumiere mentor.

6. Research internships

These can be standalone or part of a research program. In looking for a more structured research experience, a research internship can be particularly valuable in building strong foundations in research. There are always tons of internship opportunities available in all different fields, some as specific as medical research . If you are wondering how to get a research internship in high school, then check out our blog posts and apply!

Things to keep in mind when working with a researcher.

You’ve gotten into a research program! Now you want to do the best job possible. There are a few things to keep in mind while conducting research.

1. Maintain a professional and friendly demeanor

Chances are, there are many things you don’t know or haven’t learned about this field. The important thing is to keep an open mind and remain eager to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to offer to help with anything, even if it’s not in your job description. Your mentor will appreciate your willingness to adapt, follow procedures, and engage with challenging material.

2. Keep track of what’s happening

Open up your notes app or get a small journal to remember what has happened in each step of the process. I remember the hardest part of writing my college essays was the very beginning: trying to come up with a list of memorable moments to talk about. If you’re looking to write about your research experience in your college application, you need to remember the moments where you struggled, where you learned, where you almost gave up but didn’t, where you realized something, even the moment you first stepped into the lab! If you are given feedback: write that down! If you are asked to reflect on everything you learned: write that down! This will be incredibly important for now and for later.

3. Ask questions

Not only is your mentor there as a potential future recommender, but they are also there to help you learn as much as possible. Absorb as much as you can from them! Ask as many questions as you can about their career, their previous research, their education, their own moments of realization, etc. This will help you discover what this career really entails and what you might look for in navigating your own future career.

Making the most out of your research: How to publish a research paper in high school

A question we often get is whether or not you need to publish your research for you to mention it in your college application. While the answer is no, the experience is a great one to have and definitely allows your work to stand out amongst your peers. Lumiere has published a complete guide to publishing research in high school here . What’s important to keep in mind is that there are various journals that specifically accept high school research reports and papers, such as the Concord Review or the Journal of Emerging Investigators. In our articles below, we go through a detailed guide of what these journals are and how a student might best approach the submission process.

Useful guides for publishing a research paper in high school

The Concord Review: The Complete Guide To Getting In (lumiere-education.com)

The John Locke Essay Competition

The Complete Guide to the Journal of Emerging Investigators (lumiere-education.com)

Research is an incredibly rewarding learning experience for everyone. While high school may seem early, it’s always better to start sooner rather than later, both for your college applications and for your own personal progress. Although the process may seem daunting at first, we hope we’ve broken it down in a way that’s simple and digestible. And if you want extra support, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is always here to help!

Amelia is a current junior at Harvard College studying art history with a minor in economics. She’s enthusiastic about music, movies, and writing, and is excited to help Lumiere’s students as much as she can!

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• A Research Guide
• Research Paper Topics

120 Fun Research Topics

How to choose a topic for a fun research paper:.

Fun Psychology Research Paper Topics:

• The psychology of humor: Exploring the science behind what makes things funny
• The impact of video games on cognitive abilities and decision-making skills
• The psychology of superstitions: Why do people believe in lucky charms?
• The influence of music on mood and emotions: Examining the power of melodies
• The psychology of attraction: Investigating the role of pheromones in human relationships
• The psychology of dreams: Analyzing the hidden meanings behind our nightly adventures
• The impact of color on human behavior and perception
• The psychology of procrastination: Understanding the reasons behind delaying tasks
• The role of pets in promoting mental health and well-being
• The psychology of nostalgia: Exploring the effects of reminiscing on mood and motivation
• The influence of social media on self-esteem and body image
• The psychology of decision-making: Investigating the factors that affect our choices
• The impact of positive psychology interventions on happiness and life satisfaction
• The psychology of creativity: Examining the cognitive processes behind innovative thinking
• The role of laughter therapy in reducing stress and improving mental health

Fun Sociology Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of reality TV shows on societal perceptions and behaviors
• Exploring the role of humor in breaking down social barriers
• The relationship between music preferences and personality traits
• Analyzing the effects of video games on social interaction and relationships
• Investigating the phenomenon of FOMO (fear of missing out) in the digital age
• The portrayal of gender roles in Disney movies and its impact on children’s perceptions
• Examining the influence of fashion trends on social identity and self-expression
• The role of pets in promoting social connections and well-being
• Analyzing the impact of social media activism on real-world social change
• Exploring the psychology behind conspiracy theories and their social implications
• Investigating the relationship between social class and educational attainment
• The influence of cultural norms on dating and romantic relationships
• Analyzing the effects of social isolation on mental health and well-being
• The role of humor in reducing prejudice and promoting social inclusion

Fun Education Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of incorporating gamification in the classroom
• The effectiveness of using virtual reality in teaching complex subjects
• The benefits of outdoor education on student learning and development
• The role of music education in enhancing cognitive abilities
• The influence of humor in the learning process
• The use of storytelling as a tool for teaching history
• The effects of incorporating art and creativity in STEM education
• The benefits of incorporating mindfulness practices in the classroom
• The impact of physical activity on academic performance
• The role of video games in developing problem-solving skills
• The effectiveness of using social media platforms for educational purposes
• The benefits of incorporating multicultural education in the curriculum
• The impact of incorporating hands-on experiments in science education
• The role of outdoor play in early childhood development
• The effects of incorporating technology in early childhood education

Fun History Research Paper Topics:

• The Lost City of Atlantis: Myth or Reality?
• The Mystery of the Bermuda Triangle: Fact or Fiction?
• The Curse of Tutankhamun’s Tomb: Unraveling Ancient Secrets
• The Roaring Twenties: Jazz, Flappers, and Prohibition
• The Salem Witch Trials: Hysteria and Accusations
• The Great Emu War of Australia: When Birds Fought Back
• The Legend of Robin Hood: Fact or Folklore?
• The History of Chocolate: From Aztec Delicacy to Global Obsession
• The Origins of April Fools’ Day: Pranks Throughout History
• The Real Pirates of the Caribbean: Exploring the Golden Age of Piracy
• The History of Halloween: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Celebrations
• The Roswell UFO Incident: Extraterrestrial Encounter or Government Cover-Up?
• The Great Fire of London: Destruction and Rebuilding
• The History of Surfing: From Ancient Polynesia to Global Phenomenon
• The Space Race: The Competition for the Final Frontier

Fun Chemistry Research Paper Topics:

• The chemistry behind the perfect cup of coffee
• Exploring the science of chocolate: From bean to bar
• The chemistry of wine fermentation and aging
• Investigating the chemical reactions in fireworks
• The role of chemistry in the production of perfumes and fragrances
• The chemistry of cooking: Understanding the Maillard reaction
• The science behind the colors of autumn leaves
• Unraveling the chemistry of love: The role of pheromones
• The chemistry of brewing beer: From hops to fermentation
• The chemistry of glow sticks: How do they work?
• The chemistry of sunscreen: Protecting our skin from harmful UV rays
• The science of carbonated beverages: How do bubbles form?
• Exploring the chemistry of natural dyes and pigments
• The chemistry of photography: From film to digital
• Investigating the chemistry of household cleaning products

Fun Medical Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of laughter therapy on pain management in patients with chronic conditions
• The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing anxiety levels among surgical patients
• The correlation between chocolate consumption and cognitive function
• The benefits of pet therapy in improving mental health outcomes for hospitalized children
• The role of virtual reality in reducing fear and anxiety during medical procedures
• The effects of dance therapy on motor skills and balance in elderly individuals
• The relationship between video games and hand-eye coordination in surgical trainees
• The impact of humor on patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans
• The benefits of art therapy in reducing stress and improving well-being in cancer patients
• The effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality and relaxation in patients with insomnia
• The correlation between coffee consumption and cardiovascular health
• The role of laughter yoga in improving immune function and overall well-being
• The effects of mindfulness meditation on pain perception and management
• The impact of nature therapy on mental health and stress reduction
• The benefits of therapeutic clowning in pediatric healthcare settings

Fun Environmental Research Paper Topics:

• The impact of climate change on the behavior of penguins in Antarctica
• The role of bees in pollination and their importance in maintaining biodiversity
• Exploring the potential of using algae as a sustainable biofuel source
• The effects of urbanization on bird populations and their adaptation strategies
• Investigating the benefits of vertical farming in urban areas
• The relationship between deforestation and the decline of certain animal species
• Analyzing the effectiveness of eco-friendly packaging materials in reducing waste
• The impact of noise pollution on marine life and possible mitigation strategies
• Examining the role of coral reefs in protecting coastal areas from storm surges
• Investigating the potential of using mushrooms for bioremediation of contaminated soil
• The effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and possible solutions
• Analyzing the impact of light pollution on nocturnal animals and their behavior
• The role of community gardens in promoting sustainable urban agriculture
• Investigating the benefits of using renewable energy sources in remote areas
• Exploring the potential of using drones for wildlife conservation and monitoring

Fun Economic Research Paper Topics:

• The economics of online gaming: How virtual economies impact real-world markets
• The economic impact of superhero movies: A study on the box office success and its effects on local economies
• The economics of happiness: Analyzing the relationship between income, happiness, and life satisfaction
• The economic implications of fast food: Examining the effects of fast food consumption on health and the economy
• The economics of love: Investigating the economic factors influencing romantic relationships and marriage
• The economic impact of social media influencers: Analyzing the effects of influencer marketing on consumer behavior and brand loyalty
• The economics of procrastination: Understanding the costs and benefits of delaying tasks from an economic perspective
• The economic consequences of climate change: Assessing the financial implications of global warming and environmental policies
• The economics of laughter: Exploring the economic benefits and costs of humor in society
• The economic impact of video game addiction: Investigating the financial consequences of excessive gaming and its effects on productivity
• The economics of celebrity endorsements: Analyzing the impact of celebrity endorsements on consumer purchasing behavior and brand perception
• The economic implications of legalized marijuana: Examining the economic effects of marijuana legalization on tax revenue, employment, and crime rates
• The economics of fashion: Investigating the economic factors influencing fashion trends and consumer spending in the industry
• The economic impact of tourism: Assessing the economic benefits and costs of tourism on local economies and communities

• Writing a Research Paper
• Research Paper Title
• Research Paper Sources
• Research Paper Problem Statement
• Research Paper Thesis Statement
• Hypothesis for a Research Paper
• Research Question
• Research Paper Outline
• Research Paper Summary
• Research Paper Prospectus
• Research Paper Proposal
• Research Paper Format
• Research Paper Styles
• AMA Style Research Paper
• MLA Style Research Paper
• Chicago Style Research Paper
• APA Style Research Paper
• Research Paper Structure
• Research Paper Cover Page
• Research Paper Abstract
• Research Paper Introduction
• Research Paper Body Paragraph
• Research Paper Literature Review
• Research Paper Background
• Research Paper Methods Section
• Research Paper Results Section
• Research Paper Discussion Section
• Research Paper Conclusion
• Research Paper Appendix
• Research Paper Bibliography
• APA Reference Page
• Annotated Bibliography
• Bibliography vs Works Cited vs References Page
• Research Paper Types
• What is Qualitative Research

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10 creative research topics for students (2024)

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Miroslav Damyanov

Research is a key part of student life, but deciding which topic to research can take time and effort. The right research topic typically aligns with your skills and interests, has current relevance, and can positively impact the world.

In this article, you’ll find some helpful examples to help you get started.

• What is a research topic, and what is it for?

Research topics enable students to drill down into a specific aspect of a subject to broaden their knowledge and share learnings with others. They are typically used to make discoveries or develop fresh viewpoints.

A research topic defines the specific theme that research will be conducted around. It’s essential for providing a key focus for the work to be completed. Ultimately, it defines a core problem or knowledge gap that needs to be solved. 

A clear topic helps define what is being studied and how that information will be communicated to others.

• Research topic vs. research question

A research topic is a broad theme of focus that requires further investigation. It’s the project’s overall subject—an aspect of which will be studied.

A research topic example could be “The effects of meditation on stress reduction.”

A research question is a specific inquiry that researchers want to investigate and answer to broaden their knowledge and make new discoveries. Research questions are much more specific, focusing on a very small aspect of the overall topic.

The right research question will specifically set out what is being researched so there is no ambiguity.

Here’s an example of a research question within the topic: “How does meditation impact stress, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace?”

• What makes a good research paper topic?

Here are the characteristics that make some topics more favorable and useful than others:

Clarity: a helpful research topic should be clearly understood to ensure the integrity of the research. It should be clear to the student and mentor/professor what the topic is and how it will be explored.

Originality: answering questions that have already been researched and answered many times before could be a waste of resources. Answering original questions is key to getting the most out of research. This might involve researching topics that have already been covered from a different angle or exploring an entirely new topic.

Relevance: it’s helpful to ensure that a research topic is related to your expertise and your access to resources. This will ensure that the research topic is relevant to you.

Ethical : ethics should always be considered when conducting research. Your research shouldn’t cause physical or mental harm to any participants. You should also consider animal and environmental ethics.

• How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?

With so many topics to choose from, selecting a topic for your research paper can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider these three points to make the best choice:

1. Lean into personal interest

Being interested and experienced in a particular field will make the research more interesting, relevant, and straightforward to conduct.

Your interest will mean you’re committed and motivated to discover the answer to your research question. Being personally engaged also makes the process more enjoyable.

One caveat to keep in mind is the potential for bias. If you are invested in the research having a particular result, you must ensure it’s accurate, double-checked, and reviewed by an impartial party.

2. Choose a topic with enough information

Your research project might fail if you don’t have access to sufficient information and resources. There needs to be enough information to gain deep insights into the research at hand.

Consider the resources you have within your project limits. If your research has funding, carefully work out what that funding could be used for. If not, you may need to consider research that you’ll be able to complete with access to public records and other free resources.

Timings, finances, access to participants, and publicly accessible information will all need to be considered before choosing the final topic to research.

3. Consider the guidelines

You’ll need to adhere to the specific guidelines that your school, mentor, or professor have laid out. They may request that the topic be related to public interest, a currently challenging topic for the environment, or another parameter.

When considering those guidelines, make ethical considerations. Your school or university is unlikely to permit unethical research.

• How to find research topics to write about

Even though there’s an endless range of topics to research, you might not know where to begin. Starting with background reading, mind mapping, and speaking with mentors can help mold general ideas into useful topics and questions.

Extensive reading: completing background reading of educational databases, journals, and scientific studies can help provide a good working knowledge of what is currently being researched and identify key gaps.

Social problems: current challenges on both a local and global scale can make excellent research questions. Whether it’s investigating climate change, human health, or the impact of pandemics, there’s likely to be large human interest if you research social problems and challenges. The research you conduct may even have a positive impact on the world around you.

Mind mapping: brainstorming different ideas inspired by your background reading and personal interests can lead to ideal research topics. Create a large mind map, whether in a notebook or on a whiteboard, to get all your ideas down on paper. You may be surprised at what unique ideas you come up with.

Speak to mentors: running topics over with your professor or mentor could prove very helpful. They may be able to help you refine your ideas, provide feedback on research questions, and offer useful suggestions to ensure the topic you pick is appropriate.

• The top 10 research topics for students

Here are some of the top 10 research topics and research areas for students. Whether in high school, senior high school, or college, these topics are important and relevant for students today.

You might use these ideas as starting points for your own original research topics and research questions.

1. High school research paper topic ideas

Research topics in high school can promote critical thinking , personal growth, and problem-solving skills.

Some of the most relevant research topics for high schoolers revolve around social and political issues, as those are often core topics within the school curriculum. Also, students are often interested in how they can positively impact the world around them, so topics within social change and social issues are particularly relevant.

The impacts of bullying

Bullying and its impacts are an interesting and relevant topic for high school students. Students may want to consider ways to mitigate bullying or explore whether bullying can affect people long-term.

Some specific research questions within the bullying topic are:

What is the evidence that parental support can alleviate the impact of bullying in schools?

What are the effects of bullying and victimization on short-term mental health?

How can we predict adolescents’ bullying participation and understand the participant roles of bullying in different grades?

Social media in high schools

With social media use prolific in the modern world, students may be particularly interested to learn about how it impacts humans. Students may want to research the effects of different social media types, ways to reduce social media use, or how social media is impacting people around the world.

Some topics within social media could be:

Is there a correlation between social media use and academic performance?

What are the effects of social media use on mental health in people aged 12–18?

How does social media use affect self-esteem in students?

2. Psychology research paper topics

Psychology is a broadly studied topic with many possible avenues for exploration. Whether you’d like to understand how the human brain works, ways to boost mental health, or treatment options in psychology, there are endless options.

Here are some of the top 10 research topics for college students in psychology: 

Increasing happiness

Some specific research questions related to happiness include the following:

What are the factors driving the fear of leaning into happiness in American society?

How can practicing vulnerability reduce stress and boost happiness?

What impact does forest bathing have on overall mood scores?

Mitigating anxiety

With 37% of US adults more anxious in 2023 than in 2022, anxiety as a research topic is very relevant.

Below are some example research questions:

How does chronic anxiety impact people’s day-to-day lives?

What is the impact of meditation interventions on anxiety?

Is there data to support physical exercise interventions for anxiety disorders?

3. Science research paper topics

Scientific research covers many study fields. From biology and chemistry to physics and biochemistry, science helps researchers discover critical information about humans and our world.

Here are a few potential topics for exploration:

Reducing pandemic risk

Given the impact of COVID-19, mitigating the risk of a future pandemic is of significant human interest. A student may look at ways to improve pandemic responses, identify future pandemics, boost vaccine adoption, and reduce the spread of misinformation. 

Specific research questions include the following:

How can AI help predict future pandemics?

How does animal breeding contribute to zoonotic disease risk?

What are the key ways to identify and control a potential future pandemic before it becomes widespread?

Renewable energy

With climate change and the planet’s health a major concern for many scientists, investigations into more environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources are of great social interest.

Here are some research questions about renewable energy to consider:

What is the economic feasibility of widespread renewable energy use across the US?

How could wind, water, and solar energy reduce global emissions?

What are the core factors preventing the widespread use of renewable energy?

4. Good environmental research topics

Climate change impacts every person on the planet, so it can make an excellent research topic. Particularly for the younger generation, climate change is an interesting and often concerning discussion topic. Gen Z, for example, speaks much more actively about climate change both on and offline.

Climate change on a global scale

Some specific research questions within the climate change topic are:

What is the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest?

What impact could the use of solar power have in the US in relation to carbon emissions?

How do carbon dioxide emissions affect ocean acidity levels?

5. Argumentative research paper topics

Setting out a specific argument and exploring the topic can make for interesting research. Argumentative research topics are typically related to human interest, issues that impact us on a global scale, or challenges that particular social groups face.

Affirmative action

With rising interest in equality, researching affirmative action—designed to prevent the impacts of discrimination—is a relevant research topic for high school and college students.

Some specific questions relating to affirmative action could be:

Does affirmative action promote equality in the workplace?

What is the evidence that affirmative action is helpful in university admissions?

How has the affirmative action ban impacted the tech industry?

The ethical use of AI

AI use is expanding rapidly across the globe, so there’s growing interest in its impacts and the need for ethical usage.

Some research questions relating to AI include the following:

Could AI lead to more global conflict?

Can ethical legislation reduce the risk of AI and its implementation?

How many jobs could be impacted by AI in 2025?

6. Human rights paper topics

Human rights impact everyone on the planet, so it’s a topic that’s of continual interest.

Research in this area could cover human rights in the workplace, privacy rights, gender equality, and much more.

International human rights

International human rights is a complex yet critical area of global interest. Human rights help protect people’s freedom and safety around the world.

What are ways to reduce human rights violations in conflict zones?

What is the impact of organizations such as Amnesty International on international human rights?

In what ways can governments enforce human rights globally?

LGBTQI+ rights

With LGBTQI+ issues gaining a brighter spotlight in mainstream media, research into this area can be very beneficial, not just for those impacted by discrimination but for society as a whole.

Here are some potential research questions:

How can gender dysphoria impact transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) adolescents’ mental health and quality of life?

What are ways to boost mental health for those who experience discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity?

How could genderless bathrooms increase access and safety for LGBTQI+ people?

7. US history research paper topics

The US has a vast and interesting history, which forms part of the curriculum in many high schools and colleges. Different aspects of this history can make relevant fields of research, such as the following:

What factors that led to the abolishment of slavery in the US are relevant in politics today?

How did the Founding Fathers shape the US political system, and what can be learned?

Why did the Louisiana Purchase have such a significant impact on US history?

8. Law enforcement research topics

Maintaining law and order in society is highly complex. Exploring how law enforcement can benefit society as a whole can be a rewarding field of study.

Some possible law enforcement topics include the following:

How can data analysis and intelligence-led policing reduce crime?

What is the role of Crisis Intervention Training in policing?

How can data improve the enforcement of cybersecurity laws?

9. Business research paper topics

Business is a broad area of study with many possible directions for research papers. Business drives the economy, providing jobs and industry. It’s the cornerstone of society, so research in this area is always of social interest. 

Here are some possible business research topics to consider:

How can data analysis impact consumer purchasing decisions?

What are some of the key dilemmas in ethical business practices?

How can diversity and inclusion be boosted in the workforce?

10. Economics research paper topics

Whether you choose to focus on microeconomics, macroeconomics, or applied fields, economics research can take you in many directions.

Below are some general economics paper topics:

What are the widespread impacts of the gig economy?

How can investing in female-founded businesses impact economies in developing countries?

How does progressive taxation impact income inequality?

It all starts with the right research question  

Successful research starts with the right question, regardless of your chosen topic.

Taking time to pose a relevant and clear research question will help you discover new insights, learnings, and evidence.

Research is the very thing that drives human knowledge. Remember, your research might not just impact you but also the world and people around you.

How can I get research ideas?

To come up with research ideas, you might find it helpful to do some background reading, consider current social issues, lean into your skills and interests, and speak to a mentor or professor. Brainstorming and mind mapping can also help.

What is a good research question?

A good research question should be clear, relevant, original, and ethical. You should also have access to the necessary resources to perform the research thoroughly.

How do I create a title for my research topic?

The right title for a research topic is clear and relevant to your field of study. Ideally, it’s an original idea and refers to the specific question you’re posing.

What are some good qualitative research topics?

Qualitative research involves analyzing people’s attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors.

There are qualitative research topics across almost every field of study, including psychology, education, social sciences, human resources, technology, and healthcare.

What qualitative research topics can be good for STEM students?

For STEM (​​science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students, qualitative research topics could revolve around social impacts and perceptions of science and technology.

Here are some examples:

How the general population views climate change

The potential social impacts of AI

How to use Big Data ethically

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101 research paper topics.

• Why do we sleep ?
• How do GPS systems work?
• Who was the first person to reach the North Pole ?
• Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz ?
• What was life like for a gladiator ?
• What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
• What happened during the Salem witch trials ?
• Are there any effective means of repelling insects ?
• How did trains and railroads change life in America?
• What may have occurred during the Roswell  UFO incident of 1947?
• How is bulletproof clothing made?
• What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
• What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs ?
• How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
• How did the long bow contribute to English military dominance?
• What caused the stock market crash of 2008?
• How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt what did she do during her reign?
• How has airport security intensified since September 11 th , 2001?
• What is life like inside of a beehive ?
• Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
• What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
• How does tobacco use affect the human body?
• How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
• What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk ?
• What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur ?
• How did gunpowder change warfare?
• In what ways do Wal-Mart stores affect local economies?
• How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
• What do historians know about ninjas ?
• How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
• What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden ?
• What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
• What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife ?
• How much does the war on drugs cost Americans each year?
• How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
• Are humans still evolving ?
• What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy ?
• How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
• What was the Magna Carta and how did it change England?
• What is the curse of the pharaohs?
• Why was Socrates executed?
• What nonlethal weapons are used by police to subdue rioters?
• How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
• How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
• Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
• What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
• How are black holes formed?
• How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
• Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
• How do submarines work?
• Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
• How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
• What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke ?
• How does a hybrid car save energy?
• What ingredients can be found inside of a hotdog ?
• How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
• What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
• How did the Freedom Riders change society?
• How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
• What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors ?
• What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
• What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
• What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
• How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy ?
• How did Joan of Arc change history?
• What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
• How does a shark hunt?
• What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
• Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
• Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
• How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
• What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
• How does the human brain store and retrieve memories ?
• What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
• How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
• What causes tornadoes ?
• Why did Martin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
• How does a search engine work?
• What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers ?
• How did the Roman Empire fall?
• What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier ?
• How did the black plague affect Europe?
• What happened to Amelia Earhart ?
• What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power ?
• How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
• What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire ?
• From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
• How does night vision work?
• How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam ?
• What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana ?
• What causes desert mirages and how do they affect wanderers?
• What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing ?
• What are sinkholes and how are they formed?
• Have any psychics ever solved crimes or prevented them from occurring?
• Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula ?
• What are the risks of climate change and global warming ?
• What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
• Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison ?
• How are the Chinese and American economies similar and different?
• Why was communism unsuccessful in so many countries?
• In what ways do video games affect children and teenagers?

923 Comments

I like using this website when I assist kids with learning as a lot of these topics are quickly covered in the school systems. Thankyou

Mackenah Nicole Molina

Wow! I always have trouble deiciding what to do a research project on but this list has totally solved that. Now my only problem is choosing what idea on this list I should do first!

Most of these my teacher rejected because apparently ‘these aren’t grade level topics, and I doubt they interest you”

I’m sorry to hear that. Sounds like you will have a potentially valuable character-building experience in the short-term.

Edwin Augusto Galindo Cuba

THIS SITE IS AWESOME, THERE ARE LOTS OF TOPICS TO LEARN AND MASTER OUR SKILLS!

research kid

I need one about animals, please. I have been challenged to a animal research project, Due Friday. I have no clue what to research! somebody help, thanks for reading!

You can do one on bats

For international studies you can do Defense and Security.

This was very helpful.

Research on Ben Franklin? I think THAT will get a real charge out of everyone (hehehehegetit)

Mandy Maher

“Is it possible to colonize Mars?”

maddy burney

these are silly topics

thx for making this real.

more gaming questions!!!!!!

Is it still considered stealing if you don’t get caught?

Yes, yes it is still considered stealing.

I need topics on memes

Mary Nnamani

Please I need project topics on Language Literature

Marcella Vallarino

I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8

I need a research topics about public sector management

I NEED FIVE EXAMPLES EACH ON QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (EDUCATION, HEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY AND ENGINEERING)

publish research that are interesting please……

hey can you do one on the burmiueda triangle

Anybody know video games effect kids,and,teens. There Fun!!

they’re

I need a topic about woman history if any of u can find 1 please that would be great!

You could research about the history of the astronauts, and of human past (WWI, WWII, etc.)

so about women? Manitoba Women Win the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections, The First Women, January 23, 1849: Elizabeth Blackwell becomes the first woman to graduate from medical school and become a doctor in the United States, Rosa Parks Civil Rights Equal Pay. I have way more. so if you need more just ask.

communism is good

what are you a communist?!?!

Did FDR know about the upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor on 07 DEC 1941.

do you know how babies are born

Christine Singu

kindly assist with a research topic in the field of accounting or auditing

need more about US army

Please can yiu give me a topic in education

I think one should be how can music/Video games can affect the life for people

or How Do Video Games Affect Teenagers?

zimbabwe leader

I think a good topic is supporting the confederate flag!

Need a research topic within the context of students union government and dues payments

do more weird ones plz

joyce alcantara

Hi pls po can you give me a topic relate for humanities pls thank u.

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500 Good Research Paper Topics

Bonus Material: Essential essay checklist

Writing a research paper for a class and not sure how to start?

One of the most important steps to creating a great paper is finding a good topic! 

Here’s a hand-drafted list from a Princeton grad who has helped professors at Harvard and Yale edit their papers for publication and taught college writing at the University of Notre Dame and .

What’s more, we give you some foolproof formulas for creating your own paper topic to fit the requirements of your class.

Using these simple formulas, we’ve helped hundreds of students turn a B- paper topic into an A+ paper topic.

Keep reading for our list of 500 vetted research paper topics and our magic formulas for creating your own topic!

Of course, if you want help learning to write research papers tailored to your individual needs, check out our one-on-one writing coaching or academic writing workshop . Set up a free consultation to see how we can help you learn to write A+ papers!

Jump to paper topics in:

European & Mediterranean History

African history, asian history, history of the pre-columbian americas.

• Latin American History

History of Science

Politics & public policy, education & education policy, political theory, science policy.

• Health Sciences & Psychology

What is a research paper?

In order to write a good research paper, it’s important to know what it is! 

In general, we can divide academic writing into three broad categories:

• Analytical: analyze the tools an author uses to make their point
• Research: delve deeply into a research topic and share your findings
• Persuasive : argue a specific and nuanced position backed by evidence

What’s the difference between an analytical paper and a research paper? For an analytical paper, it’s okay to just use one or two sources (a book, poem, work of art, piece of music, etc.) and examine them in detail. For a research paper, however, the expectation is that you do, well . . . research .

The depth of research that you’re expected to do will depend on your age and the type of class you’re taking.

In elementary or middle school, a “research paper” might mean finding information from a few general books or encyclopedias in your school library. 

In high school, your teachers might expect you to start using information from academic articles and more specific books. You might use encyclopedias and general works as a starting point, but you’ll be expected to go beyond them and do more work to synthesize information from different perspectives or different types of sources. You may also be expected to do “primary research,” where you study the source material yourself, instead of synthesizing what other people have written about the source material.

In college, you’ll be required to use academic journals and scholarly books, and your professors will now expect that you be more critical of these secondary sources, noticing the methodology and perspectives of whatever articles and books you’re using. 

In more advanced college courses, you’ll be expected to do more exhaustive surveys of the existing literature on a topic. You’ll need to conduct primary research that makes an original contribution to the field—the kind that could be published in a journal article itself.

For a walkthrough of the 12 essential steps to writing a good paper, check out our step-by-step guide .

Working on a research paper? Grab our free checklist to make sure your essay has everything it needs to earn an A grade.

Get the essential essay checklist

What makes a good research paper topic?

One of the most important features of a research paper topic is that it has a clear, narrow focus. 

For example, your teacher may assign you to write a research paper related to the US Revolutionary War. Does that mean that your topic should be “the US Revolutionary War”? 

Definitely not! There’s no way to craft a good paper with in-depth research with such a broad topic. (Unless you’re in elementary or middle school, in which case it’s okay to have a more general topic for your research paper.)

Instead, you need to find a more specific topic within this broader one. There are endless ways that you can make this narrower! Some ideas generated from this one broader topic might be:

• Causes of the US Revolutionary War
• Changes in military strategy during the Revolutionary War
• The experiences of Loyalists to England who remained in the American colonies during the Revolutionary War
• How the Revolutionary War was pivotal for the career of Alexander Hamilton
• The role of alliances with France during the US Revolutionary War
• The experiences of people of color during the Revolutionary War
• How George Washington’s previous military career paved the way for his leadership in the Revolutionary War
• The main types of weaponry during the Revolutionary War
• Changes in clothing and fashion over the courses of the Revolutionary War
• How Valley Forge was a key moment in the Revolutionary War
• How women contributed to the Revolutionary War
• What happened in Amherst, Massachusetts during the Revolutionary War
• Field medicine during the Revolutionary War
• How the Battle of Saratoga was a turning point in the Revolutionary War
• How different opinions about the Revolutionary War were reflected in poetry written during that time
• Debates over abolition during the Revolutionary War
• The importance of supply chains during the Revolutionary War
• Reactions to the US Revolutionary war in Europe
• How the US Revolutionary war impacted political theory in England and France
• Similarities and differences between the US Revolutionary War and the French Revolution
• Famous paintings inspired by the US Revolutionary War
• Different ways that the US Revolutionary War has been depicted in modern contemporary culture
• The appropriation of the “Boston Tea Party” by US politicians in the 2010s

This list could go on forever!

In fact, any of these topics could become even more specific. For example, check out the evolution of this topic:

• Economic causes of the Revolutionary war
• The way that tax policies helped lead to the Revolutionary War
• How tax laws enacted 1763–1775 helped lead to the Revolutionary War
• How the tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War
• How the 1773 tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War, as reflected in letters written 1767–1775
• How the 1773 tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War, as reflected in letters written by members of the Sons of Liberty 1767–1775

As you advance in your educational career, you’ll need to make your topic more and more specific. Steps 1–3 of this topic might be okay in high school, but for a college research paper steps 4–7 would be more appropriate!

As you craft your research paper topic, you should also keep in mind the availability of research materials on your subject. There are millions of topics that would make interesting research papers, but for which you yourself might not be able to investigate with the primary and secondary sources to which you have access.

Access to research materials might look like:

• To the best of our knowledge, the sources exist somewhere
• The source isn’t behind a paywall (or you or your school can pay for it)
• Your school or local library has a copy of the source
• Your school or local library can order a copy of the source for you
• The source is in a language that you speak
• The source has been published already (there’s tons of amazing research that hasn’t been published yet, a frustrating problem!)
• You can access the archive, museum, or database where the primary source is held—this might mean online access or travel! To access a source in an archive or museum you’ll often need permission, which often requires a letter of support from your school.

If you’re not sure about access to source materials, talk to a librarian! They’re professionals for this question.

Finally, pick a research topic that interests you! Given that there are unlimited research topics in the world and many ways to adapt a broad topic, there should absolutely be a way to modify a research topic to fit your interests.

Want help learning to write an amazing research paper? Work one-on-one with an experienced Ivy-League tutor to improve your writing skills or sign up for our bestselling academic writing workshop .

Insider tips to generate your own research paper topic

Use these formulas to generate your own research paper topics:

• How did X change over a period of time (year, decade, century)?
• What is the impact (or consequences) of X?
• What led to X?
• What is the role of X in Y?
• How did X influence Y?
• How did X become Y?
• How was X different from Y?
• How is X an example of Y?
• How did X affect Y?
• What were some reactions to X?
• What are the most effective policies to produce X result?
• What are some risks of X?
• How is our current understanding of X incorrect? (advanced)
• What happens if we look at X through the lens of Y theory or perspective? (advanced)

A good research paper topic often starts with the question words—why, how, what, who, and where. Remember to make it as specific as possible!

Good research paper topics

These research paper topics have been vetted by a Princeton grad and academic book editor!

• How did European rivalries (British vs French) impact North American history?
• What was the role of British and French alliances with indigneous tribes during the Seven Years’ War?
• Reactions to the 1754 Albany Congress among North American intellectual figures
• How the Albany Plan served as a model for future attempts at union among the North American colonies
• How did different religious identities (Calvinist, Catholic, etc.) play a role in the aftermath of the Seven Years’ War?
• What were the consequences of the 1763 Treaty of Paris?
• How did the Seven Years’ War impact British debt and colonial economics?
• What were some causes of the US Revolutionary War?
• How did military strategy change during the Revolutionary War?
• What were the experiences of Loyalists to England who remained in the American colonies during the Revolutionary War?
• How was the Revolutionary War pivotal for the career of Alexander Hamilton?
• What was the role of alliances with France during the US Revolutionary War?
• What were the experiences of people of color during the Revolutionary War?
• How did George Washington’s previous military career pave the way for his leadership in the Revolutionary War?
• What were the main types of weaponry during the Revolutionary War? How did that affect the options for military strategies?
• How did clothing and fashion change over the courses of the Revolutionary War?
• How was Valley Forge a key moment in the Revolutionary War?
• How did women contribute to the Revolutionary War?
• What happened in Amherst, Massachusetts (or any other specific location) during the Revolutionary War?
• What was field medicine like during the Revolutionary War? 
• How was the Battle of Saratoga a turning point in the Revolutionary War?
• How were different opinions about the Revolutionary War reflected in poetry written during that time?
• What were the debates over abolition during the Revolutionary War?
• What was the role of supply chains during the Revolutionary War?
• What were reactions to the US Revolutionary war like in Europe? What does that tell us about politics in England, France, the Netherlands, etc?
• How did the US Revolutionary war impact political theory in England and France?
• What are similarities and differences between the US Revolutionary War and the French Revolution?
• What are some famous paintings inspired by the US Revolutionary War? What do differences between these paintings tell us about how the artists who created them saw the war?
• What are some different ways that the US Revolutionary War has been depicted in modern contemporary culture? What does that tell us?
• How was the story of the “Boston Tea Party” appropriated by US politicians in the 2010s, and why?
• What was the difference between the Federalists and the Jeffersonians?
• How did the 1797 XYZ Affair lead to the Quasi-War with France?
• How were loans from European countries and companies (France, Spain, Dutch bankers) key to the early US?
• What were reactions to the Constitutional Convention of 1787?
• Why did the US remain neutral during the French Revolution?
• How did the Alien and Sedition acts contribute to the election of Thomas Jefferson as president?
• What was the US’s reaction to the Haitian revolution? Why did the US not recognize Haitian independence until 1862?
• What were the reactions to John Jay’s Treaty of 1794?
• How have the remarks made by George Washington in his Farewell Address inspired isolationist policies?
• How did interpretations of the Monroe Doctrine change over the decades since its creation? 
• How did the Roosevelt Corollary and Lodge Corollary change and expand the Monroe Doctrine?
• How did the presence of US companies like the United Fruit Company affect US military interventions in Latin America? 
• How was the Monroe Doctrine invoked in the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962? 
• How was US culture shaped by the Cold War?
• How did ecology play a role in the rise of Ancient Egypt?
• How did water management technologies impact Ancient Egypt?
• How did bureaucracies function in Ancient Egypt?
• How did Egyptian art influence Ancient Greek art?
• Who could be a citizen in Athens in the 5th century BCE? What does this tell us about classical Athenian society?
• What was the impact of the Peloponnesian War?
• What was the impact of Alexander the Great’s attempt to create an empire?
• How does the way that Alexander the Great is represented in art demonstrate conceptions about the relationship between the human and the divine?
• Was there a conception of race in the ancient world? How were these ideas different from our own modern conceptions of race?
• What was the role of debt slavery in the Roman republic? How were these policies ended, and what is the significance of the end of debt slavery? What kinds of slavery remained?
• To what degree does the movie Gladiator accurately the Roman Empire in 176–192 CE?
• What was the role of slavery in managing the large latifundia ?
• How and why did the emperor Constantine I adopt Christianity?
• How did patterns of urbanism in the latter Roman empire change? What does this tell us about challenges being faced at that time?
• What do reactions to the Byzantine empress Theodora tell us about ideas of gender in 6th-century Byzantium?
• How did scientific advancements in Islamic Spain influence the rest of Europe?
• What was the relationship between Muslim, Christian, and Jewish populations in Islamic Spain? How does this compare to the experience of Muslim and Jewish populations in Christian Spain?
• How did medieval troubadour poetry represent a new idea of romantic relationships?
• What are similarities and differences between medieval troubadour poetry and lyric poetry in Ancient Greece? 
• What do letters between women and popes tell us about gender, power, and religion in medieval Europe?
• In what ways was Hildegard of Bingen groundbreaking for her time?
• Who produced beer in medieval England, and what does this tell us about society?
• How did the adoption of hops affect the production and distribution of beer?
• How did beer production allow some women a way to be financially independent?
• How was clothing used to mark religious and cultural identities in 15th- and 16th-century Spain?
• How did print culture change relationships and courting in Georgian England?
• How did churches function as social gathering spaces in Georgian England?
• To what degree is Netflix’s Bridgerton series historically accurate?
• How did ideas of love change in the 18th century? How did philosophy play a role in this?
• When were Valentine cards first commercially available? What does that show us about cultural ideas of love and courtship?
• What were the consequences of the desertification of the Sahara?
• How did trade links on the Red Sea influence Nubian culture?
• How did Carthage build power in Northern Africa around 600–500 BCE?
• What was the impact of the Mercenary War (241–238 BCE) in Carthage?
• How did the Roman province of Africa play a key role in financing the Roman Empire?
• What were the consequences of the Donatist division in the 300s in Northern Africa?
• What was the impact of the large-scale movement of Bedouins from the Arabian peninsula into the Maghreb?
• How was Mande society organized in the Mali Empire? 
• What was the role of the book trade in Timbuktu? What does this tell us about culture and learning in the Mali Empire?
• How did Aksum use trade to build wealth and power? 
• What do Nok terracotta sculptures tell us about Nok culture?
• How did the Luba Empire create a centralized political system? How did the idea of spiritual kins ( balopwe ) play a role in this system?
• How did tax collection work in the Lunda empire?
• What does it mean to say that the Ajuran Empire was a hydraulic empire? How did control over water resources allow the Ajuran Empire to build and consolidate power?
• What is the significance of diplomatic ties between the Somai Ajuran Empire and Ming dynasty China? 
• How did the tribute system in the Kingdom of Kongo help to stimulate interregional trade?
• What was the impact of the introduction of maize and cassava to the Kingdom of Kongo?
• How did women wield influence in the Kingdom of Benin?
• How did the Industrial Revolution in Europe help lead to the Scramble for Africa 1878–1898?
• What were the consequences of the Second Boer War?
• What happened in the Year of Africa (1960)?
• How did the Han dynasty consolidate power in frontier regions? 
• How and why did the Han dynasty nationalize the private salt and iron industries in 117 BCE?
• What are the earliest records of papermaking, and what is the significance of this invention?
• What was the role of Daoist religious societies in rebellions at the end of the Han dynasty (Yellow Turban Rebellion, Five Pecks of Rice Rebellion)?
• What do tomb paintings tell us about ancient Chinese society?
• What was the impact of the Sui dynasty’s standardization and re-unification of the coinage?
• What was the role of standardized testing in Sui dynasty and Tang dynasty China?
• Why is the Tang dynasty often regarded as a golden age of cosmopolitan culture in Chinese history?
• What was the role of slavery in imperial China? 
• How did the rise of jiedushi (regional military governments) undermine the civil-service system? What were the consequences of this?
• How did Tang dynasty China exert power over Japan and Korea?
• What was the Three Departments and Six Ministries system in imperial China and how did it work?
• What does the appearance of Inca, Maya, and Aztec goods in North America (Utah, Canada) and the appearance of goods from the Great Lakes region in Maya and Aztec ruins tell us about trade in the Pre-Columbian Americas?
• How did celebration of maize play a central role in Mesoamerican cultures?
• How did the Aztec empire use relationships with client city-states to establish power? How did the Aztec empire use taxation to exert power?
• How did the luxury good trade impact Aztec political power? 
• How did the building of roads play a key role in the Aztec empire?
• How and why has archaeology played a pivotal role in expanding our understanding of the pre-Columbian Americas?
• What are some common misconceptions about the Americas in the year 1491? Why do these misconceptions exist?

Latin American History (post-1492)

• How and why did the Spanish appropriate Aztec sites of significance (e.g. Mexico City at the site of Tenochtitlan)?
• What were reactions among Latin American intellectuals (e.g. Luis María Drago, Alejandro Álvarez and Baltasar Brum) to the Monroe Doctrine?
• How was the US’s involvement in the Venezuela Crisis of 1902–1903 a pivotal turning point in the relationship between the US and Latin American countries?
• What were the effects of the US’s involvement in the Cuban War for Independence?
• How did the Roosevelt Corollary of 1904 benefit the US?
• How did Simon Bolivar’s time in Europe affect his ideas about Latin American independence?
• How did 19th century academic societies play a role in the advancement of scientific discoveries? Who was excluded from these societies?
• How was music connected to the sciences in medieval thinking?
• When was the concept of zero first used, and how was it instrumental for advancements in math?
• What role did Islamic Spain play in the spread of scientific advancements in medieval Europe?
• What role has translation between languages played in the development of sciences?
• Why were Galileo’s ideas about astronomy controversial at the time?
• What was the connection between art and advancements in human anatomy?
• Why were Darwin’s ideas about natural selection controversial at the time?
• To what degree does the film Master and Commander accurately depict the voyages of Charles Darwin?
• How did the discovery of quinine and other medical innovations help to facilitate the European colonization of Africa?
• How and why was the internet invented?
• Does Virgil’s Aeneid celebrate the new Roman Empire or subvert it?
• Why was the poet Ovid exiled from Rome?
• What are the pagan influences in Beowulf ? What are the Christian elements in Beowulf ? What does that tell us about late Anglo-Saxon England?
• How does Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales reflect gender roles in late medieval England?
• How does Dante’s Inferno draw on book IV of Virgil’s Aeneid ? 
• How are gender roles presented and subverted in Shakespeare’s plays?
• To what degree did Henry David Thoreau live out the ideals he described in Walden in his own life?
• How did the serialized publication of novels affect the way that they were written?
• Does Dickens’ novel A Tale of Two Cities accurately portray the French Revolution?
• How did 18th-century novels propagate the idea of marrying for love?
• What did contemporary readers think about Jane Austen and her novels?
• To what degree do Jane Austen’s novels reflect economic realities for women in Regency England? What do they leave out?
• How did Lord Byron’s personal life affect his poetry?
• What do we know about the romantic life of Emily Dickinson?
• What were the religious movements that influenced the writer George Eliot, and how do those influences appear in her novels?
• In what ways were Walt Whitman’s writings new or different?
• How did British poets react to the horrors of Word War I?
• What do Tolkien’s letters reveal about the ways in which the two world wars influenced his writings?
• How did the friendship between CS Lewis and Tolkien affect their respective writings?
• What are the arguments for and against Catalonian independence from Spain?
• What are the arguments for and against Scottish independence from the United Kingdom?
• What are some risks of contact sports, especially for children?
• What are the most effective policies for combating childhood obesity?
• What are the most effective policies for reducing gun violence?
• Which countries have the longest life expectancy and why?
• What are some differences between the healthcare system in the US and in European countries? Which country has the most similar system to the US?
• What policies for parental leave exist in different countries? What are some effects of these policies?
• Has the drinking age in the US always been 21? What have been some different policies, and what were some consequences of them?
• What is the debate around museum artifacts like the Elgin Marbles in London or the Benin Bronzes in Berlin?
• How have politicians attempted to control population growth in different countries, either directly or indirectly? What have been some effects of these policies?
• Which countries have the most gender parity reflected in national governments? How have they accomplished this?
• How has public funding of K-12 education changed since the 1930s in the US? 
• How has public funding of higher education changed in the US?
• What is early childhood education like in different countries?
• What are some effects of free or reduced-cost meals in schools?
• How does access to menstrual products affect education outcomes for girls in different countries?
• What was the impact of Rousseau’s writings on education?
• How did Plato’s ideal forms of government reflect contemporary Athenian concerns about the unruly masses ( demos )?
• How did Aristotle justify slavery?
• How has wealth inequality increased in recent decades?
• How is inflation calculated, and what are the implications of this methodology?
• How have genetically-engineered crops changed the way that the planet feeds itself?
• How has animal testing changed since 2000?
• How is animal testing regulated differently in different countries?

Health Sciences and Psychology

• How do different societies reflect the natural circadian rhythms of the human body?
• How does secondhand smoke affect the human body?
• How does lack of sleep affect the body?
• How does stress affect the body?
• What are some ways to reduce stress?
• How have cancer treatments changed in the past 30 years?
• Why is it hard to find a “cure” for cancer?
• How has the Human Genome Project changed medical science?
• How were the Covid vaccines developed so quickly? What is the difference between the various Covid vaccines that have been developed?

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Related posts

99 Great Handpicked Ideas for Argumentative Essays 12 Essential Steps for Writing an Argumentative Essay The 13 SAT and ACT Grammar Rules to Know 16 Essential Literary Devices to Know

Emily graduated  summa cum laude  from Princeton University and holds an MA from the University of Notre Dame. She was a National Merit Scholar and has won numerous academic prizes and fellowships. A veteran of the publishing industry, she has helped professors at Harvard, Yale, and Princeton revise their books and articles. Over the last decade, Emily has successfully mentored hundreds of students in all aspects of the college admissions process, including the SAT, ACT, and college application essay. 

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• Research Skills

50 Mini-Lessons For Teaching Students Research Skills

Please note, I am no longer blogging and this post hasn’t updated since April 2020.

For a number of years, Seth Godin has been talking about the need to “ connect the dots” rather than “collect the dots” . That is, rather than memorising information, students must be able to learn how to solve new problems, see patterns, and combine multiple perspectives.

Solid research skills underpin this. Having the fluency to find and use information successfully is an essential skill for life and work.

Today’s students have more information at their fingertips than ever before and this means the role of the teacher as a guide is more important than ever.

You might be wondering how you can fit teaching research skills into a busy curriculum? There aren’t enough hours in the day! The good news is, there are so many mini-lessons you can do to build students’ skills over time.

This post outlines 50 ideas for activities that could be done in just a few minutes (or stretched out to a longer lesson if you have the time!).

Learn More About The Research Process

I have a popular post called Teach Students How To Research Online In 5 Steps. It outlines a five-step approach to break down the research process into manageable chunks.

This post shares ideas for mini-lessons that could be carried out in the classroom throughout the year to help build students’ skills in the five areas of: clarify, search, delve, evaluate , and cite . It also includes ideas for learning about staying organised throughout the research process.

Notes about the 50 research activities:

• These ideas can be adapted for different age groups from middle primary/elementary to senior high school.
• Many of these ideas can be repeated throughout the year.
• Depending on the age of your students, you can decide whether the activity will be more teacher or student led. Some activities suggest coming up with a list of words, questions, or phrases. Teachers of younger students could generate these themselves.
• Depending on how much time you have, many of the activities can be either quickly modelled by the teacher, or extended to an hour-long lesson.
• Some of the activities could fit into more than one category.
• Looking for simple articles for younger students for some of the activities? Try DOGO News or Time for Kids . Newsela is also a great resource but you do need to sign up for free account.
• Why not try a few activities in a staff meeting? Everyone can always brush up on their own research skills!

• Choose a topic (e.g. koalas, basketball, Mount Everest) . Write as many questions as you can think of relating to that topic.
• Make a mindmap of a topic you’re currently learning about. This could be either on paper or using an online tool like Bubbl.us .
• Read a short book or article. Make a list of 5 words from the text that you don’t totally understand. Look up the meaning of the words in a dictionary (online or paper).
• Look at a printed or digital copy of a short article with the title removed. Come up with as many different titles as possible that would fit the article.
• Come up with a list of 5 different questions you could type into Google (e.g. Which country in Asia has the largest population?) Circle the keywords in each question.
• Write down 10 words to describe a person, place, or topic. Come up with synonyms for these words using a tool like  Thesaurus.com .
• Write pairs of synonyms on post-it notes (this could be done by the teacher or students). Each student in the class has one post-it note and walks around the classroom to find the person with the synonym to their word.

• Explore how to search Google using your voice (i.e. click/tap on the microphone in the Google search box or on your phone/tablet keyboard) . List the pros and cons of using voice and text to search.
• Open two different search engines in your browser such as Google and Bing. Type in a query and compare the results. Do all search engines work exactly the same?
• Have students work in pairs to try out a different search engine (there are 11 listed here ). Report back to the class on the pros and cons.
• Think of something you’re curious about, (e.g. What endangered animals live in the Amazon Rainforest?). Open Google in two tabs. In one search, type in one or two keywords ( e.g. Amazon Rainforest) . In the other search type in multiple relevant keywords (e.g. endangered animals Amazon rainforest).  Compare the results. Discuss the importance of being specific.
• Similar to above, try two different searches where one phrase is in quotation marks and the other is not. For example, Origin of “raining cats and dogs” and Origin of raining cats and dogs . Discuss the difference that using quotation marks makes (It tells Google to search for the precise keywords in order.)
• Try writing a question in Google with a few minor spelling mistakes. What happens? What happens if you add or leave out punctuation ?
• Try the AGoogleADay.com daily search challenges from Google. The questions help older students learn about choosing keywords, deconstructing questions, and altering keywords.
• Explore how Google uses autocomplete to suggest searches quickly. Try it out by typing in various queries (e.g. How to draw… or What is the tallest…). Discuss how these suggestions come about, how to use them, and whether they’re usually helpful.
• Watch this video  from Code.org to learn more about how search works .
• Take a look at  20 Instant Google Searches your Students Need to Know  by Eric Curts to learn about “ instant searches ”. Try one to try out. Perhaps each student could be assigned one to try and share with the class.
• Experiment with typing some questions into Google that have a clear answer (e.g. “What is a parallelogram?” or “What is the highest mountain in the world?” or “What is the population of Australia?”). Look at the different ways the answers are displayed instantly within the search results — dictionary definitions, image cards, graphs etc.

• Watch the video How Does Google Know Everything About Me?  by Scientific American. Discuss the PageRank algorithm and how Google uses your data to customise search results.
• Brainstorm a list of popular domains   (e.g. .com, .com.au, or your country’s domain) . Discuss if any domains might be more reliable than others and why (e.g. .gov or .edu) .
• Discuss (or research) ways to open Google search results in a new tab to save your original search results  (i.e. right-click > open link in new tab or press control/command and click the link).
• Try out a few Google searches (perhaps start with things like “car service” “cat food” or “fresh flowers”). A re there advertisements within the results? Discuss where these appear and how to spot them.
• Look at ways to filter search results by using the tabs at the top of the page in Google (i.e. news, images, shopping, maps, videos etc.). Do the same filters appear for all Google searches? Try out a few different searches and see.
• Type a question into Google and look for the “People also ask” and “Searches related to…” sections. Discuss how these could be useful. When should you use them or ignore them so you don’t go off on an irrelevant tangent? Is the information in the drop-down section under “People also ask” always the best?
• Often, more current search results are more useful. Click on “tools” under the Google search box and then “any time” and your time frame of choice such as “Past month” or “Past year”.
• Have students annotate their own “anatomy of a search result” example like the one I made below. Explore the different ways search results display; some have more details like sitelinks and some do not.

• Find two articles on a news topic from different publications. Or find a news article and an opinion piece on the same topic. Make a Venn diagram comparing the similarities and differences.
• Choose a graph, map, or chart from The New York Times’ What’s Going On In This Graph series . Have a whole class or small group discussion about the data.
• Look at images stripped of their captions on What’s Going On In This Picture? by The New York Times. Discuss the images in pairs or small groups. What can you tell?
• Explore a website together as a class or in pairs — perhaps a news website. Identify all the advertisements .
• Have a look at a fake website either as a whole class or in pairs/small groups. See if students can spot that these sites are not real. Discuss the fact that you can’t believe everything that’s online. Get started with these four examples of fake websites from Eric Curts.
• Give students a copy of my website evaluation flowchart to analyse and then discuss as a class. Read more about the flowchart in this post.
• As a class, look at a prompt from Mike Caulfield’s Four Moves . Either together or in small groups, have students fact check the prompts on the site. This resource explains more about the fact checking process. Note: some of these prompts are not suitable for younger students.
• Practice skim reading — give students one minute to read a short article. Ask them to discuss what stood out to them. Headings? Bold words? Quotes? Then give students ten minutes to read the same article and discuss deep reading.

All students can benefit from learning about plagiarism, copyright, how to write information in their own words, and how to acknowledge the source. However, the formality of this process will depend on your students’ age and your curriculum guidelines.

• Watch the video Citation for Beginners for an introduction to citation. Discuss the key points to remember.
• Look up the definition of plagiarism using a variety of sources (dictionary, video, Wikipedia etc.). Create a definition as a class.
• Find an interesting video on YouTube (perhaps a “life hack” video) and write a brief summary in your own words.
• Have students pair up and tell each other about their weekend. Then have the listener try to verbalise or write their friend’s recount in their own words. Discuss how accurate this was.
• Read the class a copy of a well known fairy tale. Have them write a short summary in their own words. Compare the versions that different students come up with.
• Try out MyBib — a handy free online tool without ads that helps you create citations quickly and easily.
• Give primary/elementary students a copy of Kathy Schrock’s Guide to Citation that matches their grade level (the guide covers grades 1 to 6). Choose one form of citation and create some examples as a class (e.g. a website or a book).
• Make a list of things that are okay and not okay to do when researching, e.g. copy text from a website, use any image from Google images, paraphrase in your own words and cite your source, add a short quote and cite the source. 
• Have students read a short article and then come up with a summary that would be considered plagiarism and one that would not be considered plagiarism. These could be shared with the class and the students asked to decide which one shows an example of plagiarism .
• Older students could investigate the difference between paraphrasing and summarising . They could create a Venn diagram that compares the two.
• Write a list of statements on the board that might be true or false ( e.g. The 1956 Olympics were held in Melbourne, Australia. The rhinoceros is the largest land animal in the world. The current marathon world record is 2 hours, 7 minutes). Have students research these statements and decide whether they’re true or false by sharing their citations.

Staying Organised

• Make a list of different ways you can take notes while researching — Google Docs, Google Keep, pen and paper etc. Discuss the pros and cons of each method.
• Learn the keyboard shortcuts to help manage tabs (e.g. open new tab, reopen closed tab, go to next tab etc.). Perhaps students could all try out the shortcuts and share their favourite one with the class.
• Find a collection of resources on a topic and add them to a Wakelet .
• Listen to a short podcast or watch a brief video on a certain topic and sketchnote ideas. Sylvia Duckworth has some great tips about live sketchnoting
• Learn how to use split screen to have one window open with your research, and another open with your notes (e.g. a Google spreadsheet, Google Doc, Microsoft Word or OneNote etc.) .

All teachers know it’s important to teach students to research well. Investing time in this process will also pay off throughout the year and the years to come. Students will be able to focus on analysing and synthesizing information, rather than the mechanics of the research process.

By trying out as many of these mini-lessons as possible throughout the year, you’ll be really helping your students to thrive in all areas of school, work, and life.

Also remember to model your own searches explicitly during class time. Talk out loud as you look things up and ask students for input. Learning together is the way to go!

You Might Also Enjoy Reading:

How To Evaluate Websites: A Guide For Teachers And Students

Five Tips for Teaching Students How to Research and Filter Information

Typing Tips: The How and Why of Teaching Students Keyboarding Skills

8 Ways Teachers And Schools Can Communicate With Parents

10 Replies to “50 Mini-Lessons For Teaching Students Research Skills”

Loving these ideas, thank you

This list is amazing. Thank you so much!

So glad it’s helpful, Alex! 🙂

Hi I am a student who really needed some help on how to reasearch thanks for the help.

So glad it helped! 🙂

seriously seriously grateful for your post. 🙂

So glad it’s helpful! Makes my day 🙂

How do you get the 50 mini lessons. I got the free one but am interested in the full version.

Hi Tracey, The link to the PDF with the 50 mini lessons is in the post. Here it is . Check out this post if you need more advice on teaching students how to research online. Hope that helps! Kathleen

Best wishes to you as you face your health battler. Hoping you’ve come out stronger and healthier from it. Your website is so helpful.

Comments are closed.

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Extracurriculars.

A Guide to Pursuing Research Projects in High School

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Most common high school pursuits and interests can be fit fairly neatly into the academic or extracurricular categories. There are of course required courses that you take, and then there are the activities that you pursue outside of school hours, usually for your own enjoyment. You may play on a sports team, participate in a service project, or pursue visual arts. In most cases, even if your interests are somewhat untraditional, you can somehow package them in a way that neatly qualifies them as an extracurricular activity.

But what if your interests outside of school are more academic in nature? What if you’ve long been fascinated by the potential that carbon sequestration holds to limit the effects of climate change? What if you’re interested in the history of civil disobedience, or the ability of exams to measure actual comprehension? Whatever the case may be, there are some topics of interest that just don’t fit neatly into any extracurricular club or activity.

If you find yourself longing to pursue an interest such as this, you might consider conducting your own research project. While the concept may seem daunting at first, if you break it down into smaller, manageable tasks, you’ll quickly find that you probably already have the skills necessary to get started.

In this post, we will outline the process for conducting a long-term research project independently, including several avenues for pursuing recognition of your work and a step-by-step guide to completing your project. If you’re interested in pursuing an independent research project during high school, keep reading.

Why Pursue an Independent Research Project?

An independent research project is a great way to explore an area of interest that you otherwise would not get to learn about outside of school. By undertaking a research project on your own, not only will you explore a personal area of interest in more depth, but also you will demonstrate your dedication to pursuing knowledge for the sake of learning and your ability to work independently over a prolonged period.

Independent research projects, when conducted well and presented appropriately on a college application, can be a great advantage to you on your college admissions.

How to Choose a Topic for a Research Project

If you’re interested in pursuing a research project, you probably already have a topic in mind. In fact, the desire to conduct a research project usually stems from an existing interest, not just from the idea to conduct research on a vague or undetermined subject matter.

You should aim to narrow your research project to something that has some academic relevance. Perhaps it is related to your existing coursework. Maybe it reflects work you hope to pursue in the future, either academically or professionally. Try to fine-tune your project enough that you can easily explain the driving force behind it and its relevance to your future career path.

While you don’t need to decide on your exact topic or thesis quite yet, you should have a general idea of what your project will entail before moving forward.

Are There Existing Avenues for Undertaking a Research Project At Your School?

While you could certainly conduct your research project completely independently from your school, it is usually easier and more productive to conduct it in a way that is somehow connected to the rest of your schooling.

If the project is STEM-oriented, think about whether it would fit into a science fair or other STEM competition in which your school already competes. Also consider the AP Capstone Program if your school offers it. The second course in this sequence is AP Research , and it requires an in-depth research project as its culminating assessment.

If neither of these formal avenues are available, or neither provides a good fit, look into the possibility of pursuing your project as an independent study. If your school offers independent studies for credit, you can usually get information about them from your adviser. These types of projects usually require an extended application process that must be followed closely if you want to gain approval.

Finally, even if you can’t take advantage of one of the options above, if you have achieved advanced standing or enough credits, your school might still allow you to undertake an extended individual research project through some type of formal arrangement. Talk with a teacher, mentor, or adviser to learn what your options are. Clearly communicate your innate desire to learn more about this specific topic and be prepared to give some background on the issue that you want to research.

Steps for Undertaking the Research Project

1. find a mentor or adviser.

You will need someone to help guide and advise your work, so finding a willing and able mentor should be one of your first steps. This should ideally be a person with existing expertise in the subject area you wish to pursue. In the least, this person should share your interest and passion for the topic.

A teacher at your school who can also serve as an adviser is ideal, and may even be a requirement if you are formally pursuing the project as an independent study for credit. If that is not possible, you can certainly find a mentor somewhere else, even remotely if necessary.

Find out if your subject matter pertains to any local industries or companies, or if there are any scientists or professionals nearby who specialize in it. Consider checking the instructors of local summer programs or judges from past science fairs at your school.   Also consider a professional who has written an article that interested you in the field.

Before you approach a mentor to request their help, familiarize yourself with his or her work. Be able to speak articulately about what has drawn you to him or her specifically. Put some thought into informed questions you might ask him or her. Be upfront about your needs if you are going to require any specific guidance or extended time or energy from your mentor. It might be difficult to find someone at first, but keep trying. Finding a mentor for your project is an important step.

2. Set a Timeline and Stick to It

Once you’ve found a mentor, you can get started laying out the timeline for your project. When you do this, list each step of your project as specifically as possible. These will include at a minimum: background research, writing a thesis statement, in depth research phase, outlining your final paper, drafting your paper, editing your paper, and publishing your paper.

You will probably have a completion date in mind, whether it’s required by the school or simply the end of the semester or school year. Work backwards from your completion date to set a realistic timeframe for each of these steps.

It helps to have a calendar displayed prominently with your deadlines listed clearly on it to keep you on track. Also be sure to put your deadlines into your school assignment book or Google calendar so that you can see how they overlap and affect your other commitments.

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3. Conducting Research

After you’ve completed your deadline calendar, you’re ready to get started with the fun stuff:   the actual research. There are many sources for finding high quality research materials. You can use your school library, your local library, and sometimes even the library at local colleges or universities. Sometimes the libraries at colleges are open only to registered students and faculty, but if you contact a library official or a member of the department related to your research project, you might be able to gain access for research purposes.

You may also take advantage of online research tools. Google Scholar is a good place to find peer-reviewed, high quality publications. You may also find out if your school has a subscription to any online research databases like Ebsco , or JSTOR . These databases provide digital compilations of hundreds of research journals, both current and archived.    

Be careful what you choose to use as sources, though. You need to ensure that every source you rely on is high-quality and fact-based. Many internet resources now are not as accurate as they might appear. Some are outdated and some are just wrong. Remember that just about anyone can publish something online these days, so you can’t rely on information that you find on just any old website. Be particularly wary of pages like Wikipedia that look like fact-based resources but are actually drawn from unfiltered user submissions.

As you research your topic, take careful notes to track your work. Choose a system to organize your notes, such as writing on notecards that can be easily organized, or using different colored pens to color code different subtopics of your research. By carefully organizing your notes, you’ll be better set up to organize your paper.

4. Organize Your Paper

Once you’ve completed the research phase of your project, you’re ready to organize your paper. Go through your notes carefully to see how they support your thesis. If they don’t, be prepared and open to changing your thesis. Always allow the research to guide the direction of your paper, and not vice versa.

Organize your notes into the order that makes most sense in your paper. Use them to guide an outline of your paper. Once they are in order, write out a rough outline of your paper.

Prewriting is an important step to writing your paper. It allows you to go into the drafting phase with as much preparation as possible so that your writing will have a clear direction when you begin.

5. Write Your Paper 

After your organization and prewriting, you’re ready to draft your paper. Try to break this phase up into smaller pieces so that you don’t burn out. Your final product will probably be one of the longest papers you’ve ever written, usually ranging from 15-30 pages depending on your subject, so you’ll want to pace yourself.

Break up your writing deadlines into more specific sub-deadlines to help guide your work. Set goals for completing the introduction, various sections of the body, and your conclusion.

6. Edit Your Paper 

There will be multiple stages of editing that need to happen. First, you will self-edit your first draft. Then, you will likely turn a draft of your paper in to your mentor for another round of editing. Some students even choose to have a peer or family member edit a draft at some point. After several rounds of editing, you will be prepared to publish your work.

7. Publish Your Work

Publication sounds like a very official completion of your project, but in reality publishing can take many different forms. It’s really just the final draft of your project, however you decide to produce it.

For some students, publication means submitting a draft of your project to an actual journal or formal publication. For others, it means creating a polished draft and a display board that you will present at a school or public event. For still others it might just be a polished, final draft bound and turned into your mentor.

However you decide to publish your work, be mindful that this should be a reflection of an entire semester or year of work, and it should reflect the very height of your learning and abilities. You should be proud of your final product.

If you’re a high school student with in-depth interests in a subject area that doesn’t fit neatly into any of your existing extracurriculars or academic courses, you should consider pursuing a research project to reflect your interest and dedication. Not only will your pursuit allow you to further explore a subject that’s interesting to you, but also it will be a clear example of your independence and commitment on your college applications.

Looking for help navigating the road to college as a high school student? Download our  free guide for 9th graders  and our  free guide for 10th graders . Our guides go in-depth about subjects ranging from  academics ,  choosing courses ,  standardized tests ,  extracurricular activities ,  and much more !

For more information about research and independent projects in high school, check out these posts:

• Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment
• How to Choose a Project for Your AP Research Course
• How to Get a Research Assistant Position in High School
• An Introduction to the AP Capstone Diploma
• How to Choose a Winning Science Fair Project Idea
• How to Plan and Implement an Independent Study in High School

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A List of 580 Interesting Research Topics [2024 Edition]

In school and college, you will be required to write research papers. Yes — papers in the plural. And that’s the first reason you may want to turn to Custom Writing and seek help with research projects.

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When assigned a paper, the very first undertaking is to choose from a list of research topics. This is a daunting, even intimidating task, one that many people would prefer to circumvent altogether.

The good thing is:

There are hundreds of exciting and fun research topics for high school or college students from which to choose. With a variety of options, you are likely to find some interesting things to research. When you have good ideas and help available, this task becomes less threatening and more engaging.

But first: Let’s verify you have a complete comprehension of what writing a research paper entails. After all, you can’t be creative with an idea if you don’t know how to write about it. Then, you’ll find numerous interesting research topics for your work.

• 🔝 Top 10 Research Topics

❓ What Is a Research Paper?

• ✍️ How to Find Topics to Write About

⭐ A List of Research Topics

• 💻 IT Topics
• 🏺 History Topics
• 🧠 Psychology Topics
• 🎓 Education Topics
• 📺 Cultural Topics
• 🗣️ Topics for an Argumentative Essays

🔬 Science Research Topics

💉 health topics for research papers.

• 👔 Business Research Topics
• 📚 Literature Topics
• 🗳️ Political Topics

😂 Fun Research Topics

• 👥 Sociology Research Papers

🎯 Specific Research Proposal Topics

• 👩‍⚕️ Nursing Research Papers
• 🎨 Art Topics
• 🎼 Music Topics
• ✍️ Creative Writing Topics
• 🎈 Other Topics

🔝 Top 10 Research Topics for 2024

• Maintaining social bonds via music
• Use of AI in robotics
• Narcissistic personality disorder: genetic factors
• Mental effects of remote work
• Use of infrared detectors in alarm systems
• Cosmological simulations and machine learning
• Achieving climate-positive agriculture
• Emerging infectious diseases: detection and prevention
• Technology-enhanced education in the post-COVID era
• Disability inclusion in the workplace

If you aren’t clear on what a research paper is, then you won’t get very far when writing one. A research paper is just as its name suggests — a form of academic writing that necessitates the independent investigation of a specified topic and reports the unique results of that investigation.

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Suny Empire State College provides a great and exhaustive explanation of what a research paper is.

In order to write a paper, you are required to formulate a research question. This is a question associated with your topic that acts as a guide during your research, enabling you to focus and provide unique arguments.

Before you can produce a research question, you have to choose from countless research topics available. Another useful thing to do would be checking out free sample research papers . With that in mind, let’s examine how you can discover some unique research paper topics.

✍️ How to Find Research Topics to Write About

The choice of a research paper topic can be influenced by a number of factors, including:

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• The course for which the paper is assigned
• Whether there is a topic assigned to you by the professor
• Whether you are given a broad-spectrum subject area
• How much freedom you are given to branch out and select a topic

Hopefully, you have been given some freedom of choice regarding academic paper topics. However, if you do have some choice in the matter, you might be speculating about how to narrow it down.

You are in luck!

There are a number of ways to effectively comb through the abundance of research paper topics and discover one that will work well for you. Here are some suggestions:

• Ask your professor. Chances are your professor has some fabulous research paper ideas. You can also inquire with other university staff and graduate students for ideas. These people know your discipline well, which can work to your advantage.
• Browse through scientific journals and research papers , but be sure to adhere to the most recent research possible. You will definitely find interesting ideas in published papers that would make great research paper topics.
• Investigate other professional and government publications for research project ideas. Again, keep to the most recent publications within the last three to five years, if possible.
• Browse through your library catalog to uncover the most interesting areas of study in your field.
• Take notes everywhere you go! It doesn’t matter if you are in class listening to your professor, traveling, reading a magazine, or watching TV. Research paper ideas are absolutely everywhere! Write things down whenever you come across something unique and interesting, and you just might find a topic to pursue.

When it comes down to it, deciding on one of the many academic essay topics is the most substantial step of the process.

Once you have that narrowed down, you can focus your research and write a remarkable paper. Now, we want to give you some help. What follows is an extensive list of the most interesting research topics to get you started.

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Now that you have a good idea of how to search for college research paper topics, you are ready for some suggestions. You might like one of them right off the bat, or you might be inspired by a particular topic and write something related to it.

Want to know the best part?

By the time you are finished reading this academic topics list, you will feel much more equipped for writing your research paper. For even better result, have a brainstorming session with a research topic generator to introduce a bigger variety of options.

💻 IT Research Paper Topics

Perhaps some of the best college research topics these days are in the IT field. Explore one of these interesting ideas in your paper:

• Has big data changed our lives for the better? Big data is a trendy study subject. Large IT companies use it for purposes such as advertising and logistics. However, it has also raised substantial privacy concerns over non-consensual data gathering. Are the benefits companies get by collecting your data worth them learning everything about you?
• Neural networks are algorithms that can learn to solve problems. Both their name and method of learning are derived from how the human brain works. Can neural networks lead to the creation of a true AI? If so, how soon?
• The current state of cryptography and how it may develop. The entire Internet’s security relies on a relatively small number of ciphers. If they were to be broken, the potential damage would be immeasurable. How likely is that to happen? What challenges are we likely to face in the future?
• The pros and cons of transitioning to cloud technologies. Cloud services are very convenient for various purposes. They might not work as fast as physical devices, but they are portable, cheap, and very convenient. Should humanity switch entirely to cloud services?
• What issues does automation raise, and how can they be solved? Robots don’t get tired and work very precisely. That’s why automation is great for business. Many manufacturing companies rely on robots heavily in their production. However, robots in the workplace mean fewer jobs for humans. When most blue-collar positions disappear, what will humanity do?
• Should we keep using multi-factor authentication?
• Are big tech companies monopolistic in their behaviors?
• Is remote work the future of office jobs employment?
• The pros and cons of software ownership vs. subscription models.
• Explore the evolution of wireless communication standards and their implications.
• Describe the Internet of things and its effects on security .
• The issues of IPv4 and the adoption of IPv6.
• How do computers manage to generate random numbers?
• The infrastructure and contingencies of the World Wide Web .
• Are computers entirely unbiased in their treatment of people?
• Procedures to enhance IT security
• New methodologies and challenges to IT management in health
• Interrelation, patterns, and existing theories on behavior and IT
• Common services center vs. community multimedia center: selecting the correct variety of IT service
• Racial and gender issues in the IT domain
• Innovative theories regarding computer imitation of a human being
• The impact of digitization of medical records on the IT domain

🏺 Topics for your Research Project on History

Human history is full of exciting events, and despite what you might believe, not all of them have been explored. There are many incredible history research topics, such as:

• The history of the Chinese Empire over the millennia. The Chinese Empire is rarely discussed in history classes as much as its Western counterparts. However, it existed for over two millennia, only falling in 1912. Many curious events happened in that time that merit discussion.
• The Ottoman Empire and the Barbary slave trade. The word “barbarian” comes from the Barbary Coast in Africa. It was infamous for its pirates, who raided European vessels for loot and slaves. Only ending in the 19th century, this phenomenon can make for an interesting case study.
• The rise and fall of Ancient Greek city-states. Ancient Greece is often viewed as mostly monolithic and united against threats. In fact, it was comprised of numerous city-states that fought as much as they cooperated. Research the region’s fascinating and nuanced history.
• The effects of the printing press on the world . The printing press was invented in 1440 AD by Johannes Gutenberg. Before it, each copy of a book had to be written by hand. It limited the literature’s availability dramatically. What effects did mass production of books have on Europe and the world?
• The fracturing of Christianity : causes and effects. Since its inception, Christianity has gone through multiple schisms. Some of them were remarkably violent. As a result, there are now three main Christian churches and a multitude of lesser ones. Explore what caused believers to split apart into Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and Protestants.
• The underlying causes of the World War I.
• Provide a detailed history of the Hundred Years’ War and its results.
• Holy Roman Empire : from successor to the Romans to a Nazi symbol.
• Liberalism in national politics: emergence and evolution.
• The history of the world as a series of conquests.
• Were the Crusades motivated purely by religious devotion?
• Why did Texas secede from Mexico to the United States?
• Apartheid in South Africa and its heritage.
• Centers of scientific activity throughout history.
• How did China’s geography influence its history?
• Palestine and the Golan Heights
• Premises, progression, and consequences of the cold war
• The most remarkable revolutions in history
• Has Slavery transformed the development of the western world?
• Could damage from the bubonic plague have been diminished?
• Strange medieval family laws and their influence on society
• Life in London in the 15th century
• Religious cults in ancient societies

🧠 Psychology Research Paper Topics

Psychology has to offer plenty of interesting ideas for you to research. Just look through the discoveries made over the past decades, and you can understand that the human mind holds as many mysteries as the deep ocean.

It is why we would like to suggest a list of great experimental research topics in psychology. The science of human behavior is even more exciting when you can try your theories on practice.

If you still can’t decide on the topic for your research paper or thesis, just look through this collection of compelling proposals to give yourself an inspirational boost.

• What is the correlation between personality and taste in literature? It’s obvious that people with similar interests get in groups. Does it mean that they have similar personalities, though?
• Conformity in college and high school: a scientific approach. Check how your course mates tend to agree with others and don’t forget to write it down!
• Do men and women have different short-term memory mechanisms? It’s quite easy to conduct an experiment, but be careful approaching it in terms of gender issues.
• Optical illusions from the perspective of people with creativity skills. What if people who tend to be artistic and creative can see something in the common optical illusions that others can’t?
• The gut feeling: how do you feel when others stare at you? Some studies showed that you are more likely to wake up in the night because someone is staring at you. It’s creepy, though…
• Tricking the taste buds: how does smell affect the taste? How much can the smell of an onion confuse your sense of taste while you are eating an apple?
• What is the Stroop Effect, and how does age influence it? Check whether the age of the participants influences their ability to name the colors.
• Does having a symmetrical face make us seem more attractive? It is very rare that someone has perfectly identical left and right sides of the face. But how noticeable is it?
• Analyze the capacity of the short-term memory of your peers. The easiest way is to measure it by memorizing words and comparing the numbers later.
• Do people eat more popcorn when watching movies of a specific genre? Chewing something is almost a must-do in the cinema. But what type of movies triggers this behavior more than others?
• What signs of social media addiction are noticeable in public? Spend some time in the local coffee shop, watching people on their phones, and note any signs of addiction they show.
• The psychological effects of having breakfast: learning performance. Check if your course mates who have breakfast are more successful in learning than those who don’t.
• Music vs. body: how does your body respond? Measure different biomarkers while listening to different types of music. Maybe you’ll find perfect motivational beats!
• What color should your room be to improve your learning outcome? Blue is more calming than red, which is often used in sports halls. But what about boosting your learning abilities?
• Favorite color as a result of childhood attraction. Try to trace the childhood memories of your friends. Maybe their favorite color is pink because they had pink walls in their room.
• Biomarkers and colors: what is the correlation? Check how seeing different colors can stimulate specific responses from the body, for example, in heart rate.
• Colors and mood: can the color of your bedsheets make your day? The first thing you see in the morning is quite important. How would a specific color affect your mood?
• What is the correlation between stress levels and procrastination? There is a relation for sure, but does procrastination cause stress or the other way around?
• How much can we trust the long-term memory ? Ask people to tell you about some random event from their past. Then, ask them to do the same later. Do the stories match?
• Negative influences of sleep deprivation on social behavior. Track some students’ behavior when they don’t get enough sleep and see how it affects their relationship with others.
• The origin of phobias and fears : engaging the monster within
• Dreams : are they messages from within?
• Mechanisms of thinking: it’s all in your head
• Factors that influence behavior and character
• Mechanisms of aggravating habits
• The function of short- and long-term memory

• Why people yearn for their past
• What entices people to amass the most preposterous things?
• Is autism a disease or a natural variation of the norm ?
• The impact and outcomes of social networks and mental health
• How memory works: recalling the essential
• How depression impacts the immune system

• A phenomenon-oriented approach to the study of depression
• How to manage post-traumatic stress disorder in children
• Depression as a cause of celiac disease
• Fighting depression with techniques to relieve anxiety
• The consequences of depression and relationship problems
• Eating behaviors in different cultures
• How behavioral patterns develop
• How to forecast and shape behavioral patterns
• Differences and similarities in the behavioral patterns of diverse cultures
• Is there a genetic link to optimism that can shape behaviors and attitudes?
• The causes and consequences of insomnia
• How to combat child violence

• How defense mechanisms and behavioral patterns work
• How bilingualism works: the secret of processing mechanisms
• How fear-related beliefs fit into the cognition process
• Following the cognitive process involved in anxiety disorders
• How to fight emotional distress
• Unusual mental health cases and cognition deviations
• Applying psychological approaches to ethical reality
• How motivation plays a role in human development
• The shared elements of self-affiliation and self-determination
• An examination of the causes and results of drug and alcohol abuse
• New ideas regarding the peculiarities of rational and social development
• How practicing a healthy lifestyle cures disease and promotes wellness
• Conflict solution in parent-child relationships
• Evaluating the challenges of preterm development in children
• How to battle cognitive deficit in Parkinson’s disease
• Is attention deficit disorder a neuropsychological problem?
• Examining the process of making decisions and taking risks
• The impact of music genres on how the brain works
• How to fight childhood disorders
• Shattering long-standing myths about ADHD
• Intellectually gifted people: how is it possible?

🎓 Research Paper Topics on Education

Research project ideas around education are always changing. This has resulted in a wide range of research topics, such as:

• Computers in classrooms: useful tool or obstacle to equality ? Computers have proved to be capable of improving many aspects of our lives. For instance, they allow children to interact with content instead of just consuming it. However, computers further the disparities between those who can and cannot afford one. Explore these factors in your research paper.
• A review of potential methods for solving America’s education crisis. The US invests a substantial portion of its budget into education. However, the system’s equality is average at best. You can study proposals on how we may change its design for the better. Choose the most promising ones, or suggest one of your own.
• Individualized vs. group learning : which is better suited for current reality? Every child’s learning should be tailored to their specific situation. Unfortunately, there are far more children than teachers. Answer these questions: is group learning the only available option despite its drawbacks? Can we reduce its shortcomings by blending the models?
• Are standardized tests helpful or damaging to children’s education ? Standardized tests are convenient from a bureaucratic standpoint. They convert children’s learning into numbers that are easy to work with. But the practice is often criticized for prioritizing memorization over understanding. Should standardized tests be abandoned?
• How should the education system approach children with special needs ? Special needs children have experienced a broad range of treatment throughout history. What are the current ideas on how to teach them? What are their special needs in an educational context, and how can schools satisfy them?
• Are the world’s best education systems based on similar foundations?
• How can schools help children maintain their mental health ?
• What does equality of opportunity mean in the context of the school?
• Review how the essential qualities of a teacher evolved since 2000.
• Should every school student aim for higher education ?
• What traits define an excellent teacher, and can they be cultivated?
• Is homeschooling a viable alternative to public schools ?
• The school choice debate in the US: arguments for and against.
• Authoritative sources: what qualities make information available on the Internet valid?
• Is cheating on tests an expression of an educational failure?
• Where theory encounters reality in gender issues
• Test anxiety with regard to contemporary methods of teaching
• The effects of contemporary teaching methods
• The mental process behind human learning
• The interpretation of IQ test results
• Should children be rebuked when they misbehave?
• How to prevent bullying and harassment in schools

• The creation of particular learning methods for blind children
• Positives and negatives of contemporary methods of teaching and state-of-the-art innovations
• The function of technology in lesson planning
• Is there a one-size-fits-all strategy for education?

📺 Cultural Research Topics for Papers

Perhaps there is nothing more complex than human culture and how people have interacted with each other throughout history. For this reason, these cultural topics might be of interest to you:

• Harlem Renaissance: how a single neighborhood created modern African American culture . In the 1920s, numerous African Americans moved to the Harlem neighborhood of New York. Influenced by the ideas of thinkers such as W. E. B. Du Bois , they built the foundations of Black culture and art. How did this happen? 
• Is third-wave feminism still a movement for equality ? First-wave feminism gave women equal rights with men. Then the second wave started the fight with discrimination. However, third-wave feminism claims that the second wave failed, especially with regards to matters such as race and ethnicity. Are its claims valid, and what does it work to achieve? 
• Is the Western way of thinking the only correct one? Non-Western civilizations lay claim to different schools of thought that emphasize different viewpoints. Should Westerners adopt aspects of non-Western philosophical thought? 
• Are the factors that informed the Constitution still relevant? The Constitution was created in a different time than now. Some of its provisions, notably the Second Amendment , have been challenged repeatedly in recent years. Explore if the ideas of the Founding Fathers still apply today. 
• Should the postmodern school of art be considered art? Postmodern art is challenging to define in plain terms. Many people are confused when a seemingly random series of brush strokes sells for millions of dollars. Think of how such artworks fit into the history of art movements. 
• The impact of advertisements and commercials on how people comprehend the world 
• The implicit messages of mass media : what you see is what you get 
• How the most remarkable cultural achievements of the 20 th century influenced contemporary art 
• The repetition of cultural tendencies: the Greeks did it first 
• Social roles adults endorse to children via toys 
• Social models mass media bestows on teenagers and adults 
• Eating habits in dissimilar cultures 
• The origin of racial discrimination  
• The segmentation and integration of humans 
• The impact of AIDS on mankind 
• A new comprehension of past events 
• Unearthing a common language: divorce prevention and family therapy  
• Painting a portrait of the average American family 
• The roots of antisemitism and how it manifests today 
• A case against cruelty to living beings 
• An examination of the current job market and unemployment  

🗣️ Argumentative Essay Topics

It is easy to find unique argumentative research paper topics. After all, we live in a crazy world in which all kinds of interesting things happen. Here are some suggestions:

• Is the Electoral College a better system than the popular vote? The United States uses the unique Electoral College system for its presidential elections. Over the centuries, calls have been made to change it to the popular vote approach. So far, these attempts have been fruitless. In this debate, whose position has more merit?
• Should the continued expansion of the government be reversed? Starting small, governments around the world took on more and more functions. As a result, they now guarantee the operation of many services. They also collect massive taxes and demonstrate bureaucratic inefficiencies. Is there a valid argument for privatizing most public services?
• Should the US continue acting as the world’s peacekeeper? The US’s military is present in many areas around the world. Usually, they take the form of military bases and peacekeeping forces. However, its efforts often fail, with Iraq as a recent example . Should the nation continue spending its resources abroad?
• Does the public or private healthcare produce better results for the cost? The US’s healthcare system is often criticized for its massive costs and underwhelming quality. There have been calls to both make it more private and more public. Which of the two approaches ensures a more affordable, efficient system?
• Is teenage gender transition ethical? Recently, medical professionals in the US have started transitioning teenagers with gender dysphoria . Yet, some of them de-transition later. Should the practice continue regardless?
• Political commitment and television
• Should marijuana be legalized?
• Can people of different races ever understand each other
• Abusive relationships : where to draw the line on what relationships should Be allowed to exist
• Are there realistic limitations on abortion ?
• The many guises of violence in society
• The impact of women on world history

• Are social interactions possible without lies?
• Dealing with overpopulation: can it be accomplished ethically ?
• Torture : is it ever acceptable?
• The ethics of using animals in research
• Human dependence on computers : beneficial or harmful
• Post-9/11 security measures : an invasion of privacy or good sense

Science is always bursting with new and exciting topics as we delve deeper into the mysteries of the universe and technology. Here are a few topic suggestions:

• The potential of space resources and the technologies for extracting them. Space contains a vast quantity of resources, many of which are rare or expensive on Earth. Plans to use them have been arising for a long time. Can we implement any of them in the near future, and do they justify the costs? 
• Recent promising developments in cancer treatment and their validity. Cancer is a significant concern for humanity largely because it cannot be treated without harming the body. However, ideas such as targeted medications and imitations of whale biology have promised an end to this problem. Research them and assess their validity. 
• Large-scale recycling methods and their effectiveness in reducing waste . Most of the resources humanity uses are still on the planet in the form of waste. Some, such as fossil fuels, cannot be recovered, while metals and many others can. Is it possible to address resource scarcity through large-scale recycling? Is it economically viable? 
• Advantages and disadvantages of proposed thorium nuclear reactor designs. Thorium has been touted as the solution to the problems of uranium-based atomic reactors. It’s not as dangerous and produces less waste. Is it indeed superior, or should its issues prevent its use? 
• Potential benefits and issues of genetic modification . Genetic modification is broadly used but also criticized by many. It has its benefits, but critics argue that overreliance may lead to unexplored side effects. Are there reasons to believe these claims? 
• What cloning has in store for humanity : altering the personality 
• How nanotechnology will impact modern science  
• Will uranium isotopes precipitate the next scientific revolution? 
• How psychoactive drugs influence the central nervous system 
• Deafness and using echolocation 
• The role of erythropoietin and calcitriol in the human body 
• The process of feeling pain: treatment and pain relievers of the future 
• Is nuclear energy too hazardous to use? 
• Nuclear weapons : a responsibility for which no country is prepared 
• People’s impact on climate change : the cost of a technological breakthrough 
• Key issues and potential solutions for toxic waste disposal 
• Are the effects of global warming reversible ? 
• The future of NASA  
• Endangered species : causes and concerns  
• Black mold: the bathroom invasion 

Just like science, health care is always changing, particularly as technology advances. With new discoveries in disease research and new technology being developed every day, the following topics are great examples of what you can write about in your paper:

• Race and ethnicity-based differences in normal health indicators . People of different races and ethnicities tend to have varying normal health indicators. For example, African Americans tend to have a higher blood pressure than average. What causes such differences? Why do medical workers need to understand them?
• The effects of the Affordable Care Act on American healthcare. The Affordable Care Act, colloquially known as Obamacare , was introduced to improve health insurance’s affordability for disadvantaged people. However, the costs of insurance have grown since through premiums. Did Obamacare cause this increase, or did it happen independently?
• Strategies for prevention of obesity and associated heart disease risks. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. Obesity, which is also prevalent in the nation, is associated with the condition. How can the healthcare system reduce the rates of obesity and associated heart disease?
• For- or non-profit hospitals: which offer superior treatment? Both for- and non-profit hospitals are private entities. The former operate as businesses, while the latter only seek to cover their costs. Is the former’s drive to compete and lower prices preferable to the latter’s not charging a profit margin?
• Mental health in the United States: issues and proposed solutions. Mental healthcare is a complicated topic. Many conditions are difficult to diagnose, and some are associated with stigma . Conflicts of interest often arise among psychiatrists, incentivizing them to diagnose fake conditions. How can mental health be improved in the US?
• Should medicine be more focused on the prevention of illnesses or their treatment?
• Is it possible to eliminate a disease forever?
• The development of prosthetics: current technologies and promising ideas
• Barriers to the adoption of electronic health systems and how to overcome them.
• Sedentary behavior and sports: what are the health outcomes ?
• Psychological treatment for adolescents: how to address their needs.
• Caring for seniors: current problems and potential solutions.
• US nursing shortage : causes and potential effects on the nation’s health.
• The effects of circumcision on the health of newborn infants.
• Analyze the experiences of children with autism in school and at home.
• Should image scan radiation be reduced to a minimum level?
• Health care and insurance: concerns and problems
• The most likely outcomes of recent health care reform
• Old theories and new methods of sports injury rehabilitation
• A look at celebrities who have battled cancer
• A comparison of conventional and alternative cancer treatments
• How clean needle programs benefit society
• The need for education on nutrition in school
• The impact of diet on health

👔 Business Research Paper Topics to Write About

Business is a broad field, so there are plenty of topics you can write about, such as:

• Best contemporary practice in green supply chain management for businesses. Green supply chain management aims to overturn the stereotype of polluting factories. Companies that adopt it seek to generate as little waste as possible and require their suppliers to do the same. What policies do researchers currently recommend for this purpose? 
• Corporate social responsibility : theoretical framework and practical implementations. Corporate social responsibility is an approach where a company seeks to give back to the community where it works. It’s a popular concept, often discussed in business schools. But how does it translate into practice? 
• The effects of different office arrangements on the productivity of employees . Offices have evolved substantially over the 20th century. Cubicles replaced isolated rooms, and today open offices are popular. Is there a meaningful difference between these different arrangements? Are the changes improvements or lateral movements? 
• Remote work and its effects on the operations of businesses. Remote work is more popular than ever. It seems convenient for workers, but some companies worry that they will stop being productive without oversight. Are their concerns reasonable? 
• A cross-cultural comparison of leadership styles . In the West, a number of leadership style theories have crystallized that are considered best. However, other regions use distinct approaches that work for them. They’re also not rushing to change to the Western model. Do Western styles work best everywhere, or are they limited to the appropriate mindset? 
• Social media marketing strategies and the determinants of success. 
• Compare the functions of administration and management. 
• Prevention of organizational misconduct: barriers and strategies. 
• Review the latest developments in performance management theory and practice. 
• What is the future of e-commerce business environments ? 
• Innovation in the workplace: current thought and generation methods. 
• How does outsourcing influence business performance? 
• Describe the effects of kaizen and total quality management on performance. 
• Discuss economic viability in corporations that operate at a loss. 
• Overtime work, employee well-being , and company performance. 
• Deliberating in the secrets of effective leadership  
• How time management influences the prosperity of a company 
• How to resolve a conflict between staff and management 
• The function of diversity in the workplace of the 21 st century  
• Management by walking around: effective or fruitless? 
• Should businesses be regulated: pros and cons 
• Social media and word-of-mouth in the digital age 
• How the digital age has transformed small businesses 
• How mobile technology is altering the workplace 
• The future of the franchise  
• How the millennial employee is transforming the workplace 

📚 Literature Research Paper Topics

Sometimes, there is no surrogate for a great paper on literature, and with the changing world, there are always innovative ways to observe literature, even the classics. Here are a few topic suggestions:

• The depiction of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby . Jay Gatsby first appears as an example of the American Dream. Starting poor, he becomes wealthy and popular in the city. However, he does not achieve his desires and stays unhappy. You can research how the novel criticizes the concept while also reinforcing its idea.
• The evolution of Japanese literature in the Meiji Era. The Meiji Era began after the end of Japanese isolationism. Due to encountering new cultures, its art evolved rapidly. Writers such as Akutagawa Ryunosuke and Dazai Osamu created unique works. From what context did they emerge?
• The traits of 20th century dystopian works . The worlds of Aldous Huxley, Ray Bradbury, George Orwell , and others are bleak. However, they are all substantially different. Can you distinguish unifying themes in the stories that these writers tell?
• How does literature reflect contemporary social issues? Writers often try to draw attention to problems of their time. Dickens wrote about the exploitation of the poor, and Langston Hughes discussed racial discrimination. Can this trend be traced across most literature?
• Classic vs. modern poetry. Classical poetry follows a variety of rules, such as rhymes and stanza organization. Contemporary poets often reject these constraints and create works that are closer to prose in form. What caused this change?
• Study the Four Great Works of Chinese Literature as cultural reflections.
• Examine the influence of romantic tendencies on Walther Scott’s works.
• What issues are raised in contemporary African literature?
• Analyze Milton’s interpretation of Biblical myth in Paradise Lost .
• What characterizes the depiction of war in Heller’s Catch-22 ?
• Discuss real and fake loyalty in King Lear .
• How was grotesque used in 19th century American Gothic fiction?
• The Old Man and the Sea : Hemingway’s depiction of the unconquerable spirit.
• How were gender issues depicted in 19th and 20th-century feminist literature?
• Compare the themes of The Iliad and The Odyssey.
• The innovative era: poets of the 21 st century
• A dissection of the most illustrious novels in history
• The hunger games: over and above pulp fiction
• The future of copyright
• An examination of racism in novels from the 1960s and 1970s
• The perception of exile in literature
• Culture and literature: which affects which?
• An examination of homosexuality in literature

🗳️ Political Research Topics

The world of politics is ever-changing. Understanding the complex mechanisms that regulate our lives is challenging. That’s why a research paper is a great way to clarify the matter. Whether you’re interested in global or local affairs, this section has got you covered.

• What is the origin and purpose of powers separation in government ? Most modern governments are separated into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Thus they limit each other to avoid government overreach. How was this system founded, and how does it work?
• The structure of the legislation approval process in the US. Every bill has to be approved by the Congress , the Senate, and the President. What factors can hinder the process?
• A comparison between the two-party system and multi-party nations. The US is often critiqued for its two-party system by nations that have numerous parties. With that said, a common counterargument is that American parties made of people with diverse views. How do the political climates of the US and multi-party democracies differ in practice?
• The purpose and effectiveness of term limits for government positions. Some government positions, such as that of the President, are limited to a specific number of years. At the same time, jobs in the Congress and Senate are not. Discuss the purpose of term limits and say if they’re effective.
• Pros and cons of globalism as a political philosophy. The concept of globalism requires worldwide bodies that supersede governments. It looks past nations and ignores their interest in favor of global benefits. Is this approach valid, or are there problems with it?
• How does the European Union membership affect its countries?
• Review the evolution of China’s political system in the 20th-21st centuries.
• The threat of terrorism in a world without ISIS.
• Discuss the issue of mass incarceration in the United States.
• What were the causes of the Soviet Union’s collapse ?
• Write about violations of human rights worldwide and their causes.
• Examine the critiques of capitalism .
• What are the political aims of the Black Lives Matter movement ?
• Review the methods for effectively combating governmental corruption .
• The issues of democracy and how to overcome them.
• The American policy of intervention
• The future of the European union
• Causes of world hunger
• Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction
• The Justice system and juvenile criminals
• Afghanistan—success or stalemate ?
• Was media coverage of SARS adequate
• The new world war: fighting terrorism
• Same-sex marriage: are laws keeping up with changing attitudes?
• BREXIT: good or bad?

Who says you can’t combine academia and entertainment? Great conclusions can come from fun research. The most important thing is to ask the right questions. Check out the following prompts and get inspired:

• Parallel universes, their origins, and potential organizations. Numerous authors have imagined parallel universes. Even some quantum physics theories assert their existence. Are parallel universes slightly different versions of our world, or are they entirely distinct?
• The theories and paradoxes of various time travel mechanisms. Time travel is a popular science fiction trope. It’s also associated with multiple contradictions, such as the grandfather paradox . How do science fiction authors try to overcome these problems?
• The attempts to create the theory of everything. Physicists are trying to develop an approach that would explain everything in the universe. It doesn’t exist yet, as general relativity and quantum physics often contradict each other.
• What are the possibilities and problems of interstellar travel? Without a method to travel much faster than light, expansion beyond the Solar System is impossible. If it becomes feasible, what possibilities can it offer?
• The history of the moon landing conspiracy theory. The moon landing conspiracy theory asserts that the Apollo 11 mission didn’t occur, and the evidence was filmed on Earth. It tries to find various flaws in this evidence and use them to prove its illegitimacy. How did it emerge, and does it still exist?
• Are people who claim to have extrasensory perception frauds?
• Research stories of the supernatural based on facts.
• What is the origin of the modern Santa Claus?
• If an afterlife exists, what form does it take?
• Does meditation have benefits for physical and mental health?
• Did Nostradamus’s prophecies come to pass?
• Why do some people believe the Earth is flat ?
• Does Murphy’s Law always work?
• Examine 19th-century occultism and its prominent leaders.
• Alchemy and the quest for the Philosopher’s Stone.
• How people are affected by the death of a game character
• Challenges faced by people creating their own cartoon
• Beloved comic strip characters and their influence on society
• An examination of UFOs: fact or fiction
• What if aliens do exist: the impact on humanity
• Is there a differentiation between déjà vu and precognition?
• The existence of spirits and how to communicate with them
• Theories regarding the Bermuda triangle
• Investigating alternative cosmology theories
• Does fortune telling have a scientific basis?
• Law of attraction: fact or fiction?
• Men and women’s brain: what’s the difference?

👥 Sociology Research Paper Topics

As an additional interest for studies, a sociology research paper can be written with the purpose of learning this or that aspect of society’s life. You may use personal experience or continue the research started by other authors. Interesting research projects in this area can be based on the following topics:

• Problems of the marriage and family: a divorce research paper . This article can study the relationship in different families and problems that can arise.
• Observance of public behavior standards as the feature of the civilized society. You can describe modern social ideals.
• Comparison of sociological laws in different historical epochs. In your paper, study the attitudes towards various social phenomena.
• The influence of personality on public development and progress. You can describe the power of the personality and what one person can do to contribute to social development.
• Opportunities for searching optimal criteria for the personality socialization . Such a paper aims at revealing the ways of how people can uncover their potential.
• The society’s attitude to global problems : a global warming research paper and the impact of this phenomenon on people’s way of life. Describe this well-known ecological problem in your paper.
• Cultural formation of the personality in the context of modern public reality. This type of work can be connected with describing the ways of people’s cultural development.
• Attempts to socialize adolescents and people with deviant behavior . A research paper on this relevant topic should describe how people who are prone to criminal behavior can correct their way of life.
• Ways of improving the microclimate in the work collective and creating conditions for comfortable work. The theme aims at finding optimal techniques to improve relationships among employees.
• Equality problems in society. A paper on this topic should uncover modern problems connected with inequality and various forms of racism.
• Explore the causes of poverty in disadvantaged communities around the US.
• Review the health and education outcomes of children raised in single-parent families .
• What are the effects of social media on users’ mental health?
• Look into the presence of gender stereotypes in popular culture.
• What are the effects of mass immigration on communities and nations?
• Study the effects of lockdown-related social isolation on mental health.
• Is the Internet an adequate replacement for face-to-face communication ?
• Research the causes of bullying and potential strategies for its prevention.
• What’s the status of LGBT communities in nations around the world?
• The effects of juvenile convictions on one’s life prospects.
• Write about the American population’s views on the dangers of pollution .
• Explore the stigma and social acceptance issues associated with transgender status.
• How does cyberbullying affect one’s health ?
• Review the Internet’s influence on education .
• Assess the rationale of policies that restrict citizen reproduction.
• Research your community’s views on the concept of privacy .
• Health and education outcomes of children raised in same-sex families.
• Explore intergenerational differences in views on social topics.
• How do views on freedom of speech vary among people of different social categories?
• Make a case study on the prevalence of workplace gender discrimination in your community.

It is essential to remember that a good research paper on the subject of sociology will be appreciated by readers if you study a specific social phenomenon in detail, carry out statistical analysis, and perform a number of important procedures. The purpose of a research paper in this field is to cover current public issues, reveal important aspects of various problems, and, if possible, offer optimal solutions. This science requires concrete and well-grounded answers. Any deviations and ambiguous arguments can be regarded as an author’s incompetent attempt to investigate a complex topic.

With all of these topics at your disposal, you might still be feeling a little overwhelmed. However, they are divided into categories to make choosing one easier. It might also be helpful to look at some great research paper samples .

Composing a research proposal can sometimes be a part of a big study. If you not only want to describe a specific problem or to convey an idea to your readers, but also expect to promote your personal theory and receive the approval of a respected scientific community, it’s necessary to choose a topic which allows you to present your own ideas. Different types of writing can be included in this category: an analytical research paper, work on identifying the best ways and techniques for a particular topic, etc. The preparation of research proposal articles has some nuances, and the following topics can be studied:

• The way to conduct optimal trade relationships. Review appropriate techniques and offer specific methods to improve the situation in a particular company.
• The advantages of electronic management systems. This theme will be connected with describing the merits of modern ways of managing specific spheres of production.
• Useful innovations in modern life . Research paper subjects can be different: medicine, sociology, business, etc.
• The best management techniques: methods of control . A paper on this topic should describe the behavioral features of successful managers.
• The implementation of nursing theories in practice. The research paper proposal should have an appropriate scientific basis and describe corresponding medical issues.
• Best practice in the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis .
• What challenges are associated with the nationwide adoption of the DNP standard?
• Research current developments in palliative care for senior patients.
• Are there differences in leadership and management styles between genders?
• Assess the effects of tutoring on the educational attainment of school children.
• Compare the preferred management styles in different cultures.
• How do different states’ populations view the legalization of marijuana ?
• Write about the underlying causes of Ancient Rome’s fall.
• Challenges in the adoption of electronic health records in medical facilities.
• What are the potential vulnerabilities of the AES-256 encryption standard?
• Research the link between loyalty to a company and career growth .
• How did Dante’s Inferno influence Christian depictions of Hell?
• A case study of Singaporean government and its economic policies.
• Review the financial environment and economic growth of Hong Kong .
• Causes and implications of the human waste issues in San Francisco.
• Assess the prevalence of smoking in the United States.
• Study the beneficial effects of early childhood musical education on later development.
• The philosophical and political underpinnings of the French Revolution .
• What are the effects of successful social media marketing campaigns on videogame sales?
• How did Confucian writings influence Chinese political thought?

The video below provides detailed instructions on how to write a research proposal. It is crucial to follow these rules so that the article to be up-to-date and properly formatted. Any attempts to bring something new are generally welcome; however, it is important not to forget about established rules.

👩‍⚕️ Nursing Research Paper Topics

A nursing research paper is an academic article that has specific format requirements. Citation rules in particular are very important, for example, an APA research paper format . In order to write a perfect paper and conduct high-quality research, follow the formatting rules and use any of these topics:

• Nursing techniques to care for patients in intensive care units. The summary of your research paper can include a description of the best practical methods.
• How do you implement nursing theories ? Your paper can consist of the enumeration of specific nursing theories and the ways of their implementation in practice.
• Patients’ education and useful materials. The theme aims at discovering the best educational materials that would be suitable for patients.
• Ideas on how to achieve a better quality of nursing care . You can offer various interpretations of this topic in your research paper.
• Experienced researchers’ opinions on improving the state of nursing in hospitals. Use the ideas of different authors and don’t forget to follow the citation rules.

• Patient-oriented type of care and its advantages. This scientific research essay can reveal the merits of a specific nursing approach.
• Potential risks for nurses in the workplace. Both a junior research paper and a senior research paper of this theme should competently describe all possible dangers that medical employees can face.
• Care for people of different social backgrounds. If this research paper is written in English, it should uncover the ways how to care for people speaking other languages and having different cultural and social levels of development.
• Do nurses need additional stimuli to improve their qualifications? You can write many interesting research papers on this topic, and all of them can include lists of possible bonuses and incentives for nurses.
• The necessity for nurses’ additional education. A paper on this topic can describe subjects suitable for nursing education.
• How do you promote healthy eating practices in disadvantaged communities through educational programs?
• Research ways of providing preventative care for veterans affected by PTSD .
• Review the strategies of organizing nurse shifts to maximize the quality of care in understaffed conditions.
• Study cases of patient violence toward nurses in the intensive care unit.
• Preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients.
• Ways of implementing quality improvement in nursing units .
• What cultural competencies and challenges are typically encountered in nursing care?
• Review the methods for controlling delirium in the intensive care unit .
• Propose adjustments in sexual education to spread awareness of STD risks in same-sex relationships.
• Suggest interventions to prevent falls in patients staying at home.
• What are the issues of advanced practice nursing in different countries?
• Strategies for remaining productive under pressure as a nurse.
• Research alternatives to prescribing patients with infections antibiotics that bypass resistance.
• How to design effective interventions for child obesity rates reduction.
• Explore using exercise to maintain the physical well-being of hospital patients.
• What interventions can reduce alcoholism rates in your community?
• Analyze the implementation of evidence-based practice in nursing facilities.
• Ethical standards and issues that arise in the nursing profession.
• Review the methods of providing holistic care to patients.
• The dangers associated with telemedicine in medical-surgical nursing.

The compliance with the specific research project ideas will allow you to write a high-quality paper and will give you the opportunity to conduct research at a high level. Having completed the document, you can summarize and identify its crucial points. Following the rules of formatting is an integral part of working on any academic text.

🎨 Research Project Topics on Art

In the process of writing research articles, it is necessary to adhere to a certain topic. You can choose any theme you want. A research paper will be successful if you stick to your topic and provide a real search for optimal ways of solving a particular issue. There are a few suggestions that can be helpful in the process of writing. If we talk about such an interesting sphere as the world of art, themes can be as follows.

• How is ideology reflected in architecture? Naturally, ideologies are largely represented in media, but they also influence architecture in many ways. You can study this topic at several points in time.
• How does photography represent reality? In this paper, you can discuss if photography reflects reality, interprets it, or constructs it.
• The significance of linear perspective . If you draw a linear perspective on a flat surface, you will create the illusion of depth. Discuss how this magic trick works in your paper!
• Art and the unconscious mind. It’s an excellent topic that lets you explore psychology. Try to answer the questions of how the unconscious mind influences the creation and perception of art.
• The evolution of horror movies . This film research paper topic covers everything from silent films to modern horror movies. You can discuss the influence of film noir on the genre, literary works that influenced it, the concept of “suspense,” and so on.
• Physiological aesthetics in Surrealism. It is a known fact that Surrealists were inspired by psychoanalysis and dream imagery. You can explore this topic in a paper or use it for a presentation!
• Deconstruction in architecture. The philosophical movement of deconstructivism influenced many spheres of life and art, including architecture. It allowed the creation of seemingly nonsensical forms and environments.
• Sociology of fine art. This is a relatively new branch of sociology, which deals with arts and social structures of their production. It also includes political trends that influence art, consumerism, and other social phenomena.
• Jewelry as sculpture. This topic lets you explore fantastic avant-garde jewelry and how contemporary artists such as Jeff Koons use it to create sculptures.
• The discourse of Modernist painting in the 1950s. This topic covers experimental and abstract paintings of artists who rejected the realistic approach. Mention political agendas that influenced modernism in the ’50th.
• Abstract Expressionism. Here you can discuss postwar artists such as Rothko and Pollock , as well as their predecessors Ernst and Kandinsky.
• Andy Warhol’s influence on art. This art research paper topic covers not only pop art, but also films, music, aphorisms, the concept of “superstars,” and other aspects of Andy Warhol’s influence.
• The art of street photography. Street photography is usually spontaneous, which helps to create realistic and powerful imagery. Write about the art of photographing urban landscapes and the most influential candid photographers.
• The history of animation . Techniques preceding animation have existed long before the invention of cinematography. Puppetry, shadow play, magic lantern – all these things relate to animation in one way or another.
• Are video games art? This idea seemed impossible in the past, but now many video games are considered art for their use of imagery, music, and compelling narrative.
• Art as a form of protest. This includes protests against tradition or political causes. You may also talk about the role of art in bringing about a change in society.
• Renaissance sculpture. This topic is just as interesting as the Renaissance painting. During that period, the art of sculpture had reached its peak. Sculptors of the Renaissance were influenced by Ancient Greek sculptures , as well as by Humanism.
• Relationship between architecture and environment. Here you can discuss eco-friendly or “ green” architecture .
• Modern ceramics as an art form. In the last decade, ceramics became a very popular art form. From prehistoric pottery to intricate porcelain forms – ceramics is a great medium that can often be compared to sculpture.
• Science fiction in cinema. The earliest science fiction films were created back in the late 19th century by Georges Melies. In 1927, Fritz Lang’s silent film Metropolis revolutionized science fiction cinema. Explore it in your research paper!
• The peculiarities of Da Vinci’s masterpieces. The paper will reflect the talent of the great European master and describe his Best Works.

• The trends of art in Medieval Europe. The topic should uncover modern trends in the art of the Middle Ages and include the description of some styles; it can the article of any format, even a 10-page research paper. The main thing is to fully reveal all the distinctive features of that epoch.
• The history of European Art in the 20th century . The research can be devoted to some trends in the previous century.
• The most outstanding artists in the world’s history. The paper should tell about the most famous artists of all the epochs.
• Why do people appreciate art? This article can include your own ideas concerning the subject.
• How do artists reflect their talent today? Your task is to try to study the methods that modern artists use to attract the audience.
• Skills that a professional artist should possess. The aim of this article is to study some skills that should be necessary for the work of the artist. Regardless of whether you write research papers for sale or not, you should try to express not only well-known ideas but also your personal point of view.
• Is it possible to develop artistic talent? Try to express your ideas concerning the opportunity for mastering proper skills.
• The benefits of cooperation with other artists. This topic touches upon probable advantages that artists can gain when cooperating with their colleagues.
• Themes that are the best for the canvas. You can develop a number of research abstract topics on this theme and convey the best motives to paint that seem the most successful for you.
• The absence of inspiration. The theme should reveal what authors should do to develop their inspiration.
• Chronological order of art development in the world. It is a rather accurate paper that should mention the most significant stages of art development.
• Do people appreciate the work of artists? You could try to study the audience’s attitude toward artists’ work.
• The methods to attract young people to art. The topic is connected with a social issue and aims at popularizing art in masses.
• Do artists need additional knowledge? This theme implies for describing the necessity of education among all the professions, including artists and other creative posts.

🎼 Music Research Topics

Every culture has its distinct music. For many people, music is an integral part of everyday life. Film and theater productions use it to steer our emotions. When writing about music, you can choose from an endless number of ideas to research. Here are some examples:

• Music as a ritual. Back in prehistoric times, music was considered to be a powerful ritualistic practice. Some mythologies even include stories about gods introducing the art of music to humans.
• Early polyphony in Christian Europe. The earliest choral music was mostly performed in a single melodic line. See how it changed when more melodic lines were added.
• Indian ethnomusicology . This interesting music research topic is concerned with the peculiarities of Indian music culture. You can include the discussion of how Indian music influenced psychedelic rock in the ’60s.
• Jazz performance and improvisation. The element of spontaneity is very important in jazz performance, and improvisation is its key component.
• Medieval troubadours and their legacy. Troubadours were poets who sang their own music and played instruments. Their performances differed greatly from the traditional church music of that time.
• Ecomusicology of North America. This research topic allows you to discover the ways in which American landscape and nature influenced music, including Native American music, folk music, and modern songwriters.
• Baroque music . During the Baroque era, many important features of modern music were introduced. You can choose this topic if you like grandiose, dramatic, or playful classical music.
• The classical period in music. This period followed the after the Baroque and was very different from it. You can recognize it by simple structures and minimalistic arrangements. Many of the world’s greatest composers, such as Mozart and Beethoven, lived during the Classical era.
• Classical music of the 20th century. Over the course of the previous century, the music styles were changing like never before. Still, classical music survived, while also transforming itself in accordance with times.
• Music therapy for children. In this exciting music research topic, you can discover how music is used to help children with developmental dyspraxia, autism, ADHD, and other disorders.
• Music and sound in film. Discover for yourself the art of scoring – from improvised piano arrangements of early movies to modern stereo surround sound.
• The history of Italian opera. The Italian language played a key role in the formation of classical singing techniques. This includes opera – an art form that unites music and singing with storytelling.
• The 20th-century music industry. This topic is centered on various ways of recording and selling music. Vinyl records, wax cylinders, cassette tapes, and CDs – 20th-century technology allowed turning music into a business.
• The birth of pop music. The history of popular music begins in the 1950s. The term refers to the songs appealing to a large audience, as opposed to classical or jazz music. You can discuss the elements of early pop music that made it so accessible.
• The ideology and aesthetics of punk rock. Punk rock was enormously influential in the 1970th. Its philosophy of anti-conformity appealed to young people of post-war Britain and the USA.
• The musicology of electronic music. This exciting topic covers the earliest repetitive devices such as Hammond organ, early experimentations with electronics, the first use of computers and synthesizers in songwriting, and more!
• Sampling in electronic music: context and aesthetics. Sampling is a very interesting technique that allows using audio fragments in different contexts. It can be used for aesthetic or political reasons, or as a cultural commentary.
• What is a sound sculpture? A combination of an art object and music, sound sculptures are exciting to research. You can use this topic for presentation and demonstrate sound sculptures in action!
• Dadaism and music. Dadaist ideas of randomness and paradox influenced art as well as music. Discuss the noise compositions and avant-garde sonic experiments that influenced the latter half of the 20th century.
• Robotic musical instruments. You may think that robots playing music is a relatively new idea, but in fact, they date back to ancient times.

✍️ Creative Writing Research Topics

There are more rules to creative writing than one might think. For example, narratives should be coherent, and world-building has to follow certain logic. Analyzing these peculiarities brings you one step closer to becoming a better writer.

• The role of reality within the psychological thriller genre. Psychological thrillers often aim at distorting or questioning reality. Study the ways in which this idea manifests in different narratives.
• Graphic novels and their peculiarities. In modern times comic books are no longer considered to be just for entertainment, and graphic novel format is used to produce award-winning narratives.
• Writing about the past : historical research and archaeology. When your narrative takes place in the distant past, you need to do extensive research to represent the time period properly. One way to do it is to turn to archaeology.
• What is the role of landscape in supernatural narratives? Supernatural narratives rely on the atmosphere to evoke the feeling of uncanny. The setting and landscape are especially important to the writes of the supernatural genre.
• How to write engaging crime fiction? This topic includes the ways of building suspense, the use of “red herrings,” complex character development, and other tips.
• Digital storytelling. Here you can explore how to present your narrative in interactive digital form. It can be a video game, a visual novel, or a walking simulator.
• Writing about the future. When you write about the past, you already know the characteristics of an epoch. But how do you invent the attributes of the future? Discuss it in your paper!
• The influence of the author’s personal life on their writing. People often want to learn more about their favorite writers in the hope to understand their work better. But is there really such a connection between one’s personal and creative lives?
• The role of diaries in creative writing . Almost all writers keep diaries. Sometimes the diaries are published and used in research or literary analysis. But how do authors themselves use their diary entries?
• Creative writing for children. This excellent creative writing research topic deals with the ways of teaching children how to create their own narratives. You can discuss why writing is beneficial for children and how you can encourage them to be creative.
• The art of teaching poetry . Poetry is one of the most exciting art forms that never gets old. However, not everybody appreciates poetry right away. See how you can change it!
• What is the role of nature in romantic literature? Romantic artists and writers took lots of inspiration from nature, using it as a metaphor for one’s life and feelings.
• The role of authorial intent. Some readers think that it’s essential to know what the author wanted to say in their literary work. Others believe that it’s one’s personal interpretation that matters the most.
• A persona in poetry. The lyrical subject is someone who narrates a poem. Some people see it as the manifestation of the author, and others as a fictitious character. And what do you think?
• Degrees of realism in fiction . When writing a work of fiction, some writers use excessive descriptions, while others keep things relatively minimalistic. Discuss the positive and negative sides of these approaches.
• Forms of structure in films and novels: a comparison. Here you can compare different forms of narrative structures used in cinema and literature, such as linear and non-linear narratives, the use of flashbacks, and so on.
• How to write a comedy. Comics say that making people laugh is much harder than to make them cry. Discuss what makes a literary work funny, and how one can write effective comedy.
• The recontextualization of Hamlet . Recontextualization is a process by which something (e.g., a character) is taken from one context and introduced into another context. You can explore this notion through different recontextualizations of Shakespeare’s character Hamlet.
• Writing a dystopia . See what techniques you can use when writing a narrative set in a bleak society.
• Monomyth in literature. This exciting topic deals with the concept of “hero’s journey,” which serves as a basis for nearly all myths as well as countless works of fiction.

🎈 Other Research Paper Topics

You still haven’t found what you were looking for? This section might have what you need! Here you’ll find all kinds of topics. From psychology over physics to sociology, we compiled the most engaging ideas for you.

• American teenagers–can they be called new species?
• William Shakespeare : was this man the author of famous plays and sonnets?
• Do you have any ideas about the field circles?
• Black magic. Does it exist?
• Censorship and its role in forming a society
• The phenomenon of the penny press in the USA
• Symbolism in literature
• Alcatraz and its famous fugitives
• Major sources of stress
• Government grants–how do they work?
• Election falsification: is it commonly used, and what are its main techniques?
• Genetic engineering and your point of view on it
• Stem cell research
• What is a black hole ?
• Loch Ness monster and your attitude towards this mystery
• Joan of Arc –did she manage to escape the fires of Inquisition?
• Do some research on techniques of brainwashing
• Who invented the radio ?
• There is a belief that American astronauts didn’t step on the Moon. Did they?
• American international policy
• Unique people who changed the world
• Genius ideas that made their inventors famous and wealthy
• Is education a necessary factor to become successful in today’s world?
• Differences between the high school systems in the USA and Japan
• Schindler’s list : the importance of moral roles over wealth
• Educational programs’ impact on professional careers
• Why do college students from all over the world come to the USA to pursue further education?
• Examples of crop circles: Fake or real?
• Humanity’s technological achievements in 2020

• The importance of outlines in books and articles 
• Web-designers seem to be using the same template in their works 
• Exciting inventions of humankind in the nearest future 
• Modern students do not know how to do their homework without access to the Internet 
• The original cover page of the Holy Bible  
• The development of the MLA style 
• The cradle of psychology 
• Controversial policies of the USA and the USSR  
• How abortion affects a woman’s organism 
• What did Homer write about his lifestyle?  
• Famous people in the world’s history that did not exist 
• Would people have become what they are today without science ? 
• Parts of the world that will always remain uninhabited 
• Philosophical questions that humanity cannot answer for centuries 
• Medical stereotypes around the world 
• Will global warming ruin America’s economic system? 
• The USA government should be thankful for the mass immigration 
• The majority of scientific works are useless 
• Things to research in the sphere of modern gadgets 
• Should sociology make people happier? 
• The lack of pure water sources on Earth 
• The environment’s effect on human health  
• Humanity’s steps towards eco-friendly products, cities, and vehicles 
• Sherlock Holmes’ analytical mind and deduction skills 
• Should parents teach their children how to make the world better for other people? 
• Is business the only way to become wealthy in Third World countries ? 
• Analysis of William Shakespeare’s literary language 
• Does a title tell everything about a book’s context? 
• The Great Wall: A legendary monument or China’s income source? 
• Should families report to the police that their relatives are guilty of something? 
• The first websites, available on the World Wide Web 
• New challenges to the society introduced by social media  
• If you created your government, what would you do for your citizens? 
• What career options are prevalent in modern societies? 
• Chemistry in people’s everyday life 
• Is there any person on Earth, whose life is considered to be easy? 
• Is bribery acceptable for criminal justice? 
• The most popular sports in Britain 
• The population biology of India 
• Basic nursing knowledge of everyday life 
• Renaissance literature in France 
• Think of a technology that would make our atmosphere cleaner 
• Development of different animals after forty days on Noah’s Ark. 
• What will the food be like in a hundred years? 
• Socialization of children with autism 
• The medieval art of Scandinavian people 
• Different ways to save Earth’s environment from pollution  
• Depression in adolescents: reasons and outcomes 
• The importance of computer science in today’s world 
• Coca-Cola marketing strategies  

• Express your opinion on people’s purpose in life on Earth
• How do early childhood memories and experiences influence our lives?
• The history of video games era
• Regulation of bullying in schools by law
• Drugs industry in California, New Mexico, and Texas
• The most prevalent economic issues in Greece after joining the EU
• China’s rapid growth: is it going to become the first country in the world?
• Global dangers that influence our planet’s ecology
• Significant changes in the American media since the 1970s
• What makes medicine an interesting subject to study?
• The main factors to consider while conducting qualitative research

There are so many resources out there that will help you choose a topic and write an outstanding paper. This video gives you a bunch of topics for research papers, which means you now have even more from which to choose!

There is no doubt that writing a research paper is a daunting task.

If you feel you need help, even if you have managed to choose a topic, you can always hire a custom writing service to help you produce a fabulous research paper of which you will be proud and will guarantee you a good mark.

Whether you choose to write it on your own or get some help, we wish you luck writing your paper!

🤔 Research Topics FAQ

There are literally thousands of topics to choose from. “Biomarkers and colors: what is the correlation?” is a great topic on psychology. Should businesses be regulated: pros and cons is an exciting business research topic. Finally, Art as a form of protest is an art research topic worth exploring.

The first option is to ask your professor. Then you can browse through scientific journals and take a look at your library catalog. The final option for those who search for a creative idea is to take notes everywhere. Write things down while traveling, watching TV, and reading.

The Big Bang theory, Dwarf galaxies, and Supernova Astronomy are just a few of numerous astronomy research topics. Genetically modified organisms, Neurobiology of sleep, and Rainforest conservation are exciting research biology research topics. Artificial intelligence, Computer modeling, and Voice recognition are trendy computer science topics.

There are numerous exciting topics in various education research areas. Some of them are: Ability grouping, Computer literacy, Early childhood education, Multiculturalism, Parental involvement, Sex education, Violence in schools, and Virtual classrooms.

You might also be interested in:

• 280 Good Nursing Research Topics & Questions
• 226 Research Topics on Criminal Justice & Criminology
• 204 Research Topics on Technology & Computer Science
• 178 Best Research Titles about Cookery & Food
• 497 Interesting History Topics to Research
• 180 Best Education Research Topics & Ideas
• 110+ Micro- & Macroeconomics Research Topics
• 417 Business Research Topics for ABM Students
• 190+ Research Topics on Psychology & Communication
• 512 Research Topics on HumSS
• 281 Best Health & Medical Research Topics
• 501 Research Questions & Titles about Science
• Good Research Topics, Titles and Ideas for Your Paper

🔗 References

• APA Sample Paper
• Painting Movements in the 20th Century Topic
• The Discovery Themes Initiative at The Ohio State University
• Quantitative Research in Education
• Quantitative Research Works, Indiana University
• Organizing Academic Research Papers: Choosing a Title
• Research Topics, The University of Arizona
• Research Topic Ideas, University of Michigan-Flint
• National Archives—Research by Topic
• Jet Propulsion Laboratory—Research Topics List
• Global Health Research Topics
• National Institute of Justice—Topics
• National Institute of Standards and Technology—Topics
• Research Topics at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Research & Development
• National Institutes of Health—A to Z Topics Index
• Evaluating Print Sources
• Working With Sources
• Developing a Thesis
• Psychiatry: Medscape
• Information Technology: NIST
• Topics: History.com
• Research Programs: National Center for Education Research
• Recent Computer and Education Articles: Elsevier
• Basic Guide to Cross-Cultural Research: Yale University
• Cultural Anthropology: Britannica
• Top Physical and Tech News: Science Daily
• Health Topics: National Institute of Mental Health
• PhDs in Business & Management: Five Hot Research Topics: Top Universities
• Research and Focus Areas in Business and Government: Victoria University of Wellington
• Modern Literature: University of Portsmouth
• Research Areas: Political Science: Florida University
• Sociology Research Areas: Cornell University
• Focus Areas: Nursing Research: Mayo Clinic
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The success of any college essay depends on the topic choice. If you want to impress your instructors, your essay needs to be interesting and unique. Don’t know what to write about? We are here to help you! In this article by our Custom-Writing.org team, you will find 335 interesting...

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Articles & Advice > Majors and Academics > Blog

Why and How You Can Get Into Research in High School

Conducting a research project in high school can give you a huge leg up on your college applications. Here's why it's important and how to find opportunities.

by Stephen Turban Director, Lumiere Education

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Mar 9, 2022

As standardized tests are becoming optional for many major colleges and universities, admission teams are looking for new ways to distinguish between strong candidates. Qualitative opportunities like research projects have grown in popularity for students applying to college. These projects showcase passion and help provide proof of depth of a student’s abilities. Many students may be interested in doing research but often face the problem of how to get started. Where do you find research opportunities in high school? What should you look for? Here’s why research experience is so important for students and college admission, plus different ways to get into it.

Why do research in high school?

Research is becoming increasingly common for high school students. It’s a great way to explore areas of interest more deeply and develop academic passions—and not just in STEM fields. As a director of the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , I’ve seen students gain a truly world-class level of knowledge in fields they’re interested in through independent research. Students have investigated the strongest machine learning algorithm to detect cell nuclei, novel ways to detect ocean health in the high seas, and comparisons of 14 th -century Japanese and 19 th -century Impressionist art. In each project, students leave with a unique, deep understanding of the area they explored.

Research experience also has benefits when students apply to colleges and universities. In a recent survey of students who did research in high school, 99% of them used their experience in some way in the application for early admission. In addition, students who had done research were 26% more likely to be accepted to an Ivy League school for Early Action or Early Decision admission than the average applicant. As researchers, we want to be careful not to draw a causal link between these two. But what is true is that students who get into top schools are more likely to do research.

Related: Easy Ways to Find Research Experience in High School

How to find research opportunities

If research is so valuable, how do you find opportunities to do it? Unlike in college, where research universities often provide opportunities for students to get involved, high schools rarely provide chances for research in the curriculum—AP Research or the IB extended essay being notable exceptions. With this in mind, there are two main ways to get research experience in high school.

Research programs

Your first option is to find a research program designed for high school students. This could range from highly competitive national programs like MIT’s Research Science Institute to programs that are only available for local populations. There’s also been an increase in online research programs that provide opportunities for students to work with researchers, like this list of 24 research programs that are available this upcoming summer that students could consider. 

Cold-emailing professors and networking

Another way to pursue research is to try contacting a college faculty member directly. This can be a great way to find a research mentor and get involved in a project. If you have any connections to faculty members through family or your school, this is probably the most effective first step. This usually means there will already be some level of trust between the faculty member and you as the student, making it more likely for the researcher to take you on. If you don’t have any personal connections, try cold-emailing faculty members. To do this, you need to create an example email that shows why you’re interested in working with the faculty member and what you would add to the project. Here’s an example email to a professor who has done research on open offices:

Subject: Helping your research—Rock Bridge High School junior

Hi Professor Smith,

This is Stephen—a rising junior at Rock Bridge High School. I recently read your research paper on open offices in the Harvard Business Review , was fascinated, and wanted to reach out. Would you have 15 minutes to discuss how I could help your research?  

For a bit of background, I’ve spent the past three years working on my skills in Python and data analysis. I know that your research involves a lot of quantitative work, so I wanted to see if I could help out with that—or anything else that needs some work!

Long-term, I’m hoping to become researcher like you. So, I’d love the opportunity to work with a researcher that I admire like yourself!  

Yours, Stephen

The key here is to cast a wide net—you should try reaching out to at least 25 faculty members or PhD researchers—and show the value you can add to their work. Note how in this email I talk about how I have skills with Python that I could use to help Professor Smith’s research. I also try to draw a connection between him and myself by talking about my long-term ambitions to be a researcher. The key to email is keeping it short and to the point as well as making sure to follow up. Researchers are busy people, so they might miss your first email. Don’t be afraid to send a follow-up message. They’ll appreciate the persistence that shows!

Related: How to Write a Strong Professional Email People Will Read

How to showcase research experience on college applications

So let’s say you’ve done research—now what? How do you show it to potential schools? There are numerous ways to showcase your research in your college applications , from including it on your activities list to writing about it in some of your supplemental essays. In our most recent survey of Early Decision admits, we found that students who were accepted Early Decision and Early Action were 33% more likely to ask their research advisor for a letter of recommendation. The key is to make your research one data point in a broader story about you and your interests. It should connect to what you want to study and the other activities you’ve done. For example, one student who did research with us completed a project related to astrophysics. In her essay, she wrote about working as a stocker at a local grocery store and how some of these same astrophysics concepts related to the movement of customers in the store. The key is to make the research a proof point connected to other proof points of the type of student you are.

Does research need to be published to showcase?

A question I often get is whether you need to publish your research for colleges to take notice. The short answer is no—very few college students, much less high school students, will ever get their research published. There are some selective high school research publications you could consider. If a student gets published, it does give an added level of legitimacy to their research, but it’s certainly not necessary. The key is that the research process itself is rigorous and that you’re able to write about it clearly on your applications.

Related: Unique Ways to Stand Out on Your College Applications  

Research is hard but worthwhile. If you’re excited by a subject and would like to explore it more deeply, then research could be a great opportunity for you. It won’t be easy, and some papers can take years to finish!  But if you’re interested in it, you can join the emerging number of students who are doing research in high school!

Looking for research powerhouses to add to your college search? Check out our list of Excellent Research Universities   that are members of the American Association of Universities!

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About Stephen Turban

Stephen Turban is one of the founders of Lumiere Education  and a Harvard University graduate. He founded the Lumiere Research Scholar Program as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-on-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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15 Steps to Good Research

• Define and articulate a research question (formulate a research hypothesis). How to Write a Thesis Statement (Indiana University)
• Identify possible sources of information in many types and formats. Georgetown University Library's Research & Course Guides
• Judge the scope of the project.
• Reevaluate the research question based on the nature and extent of information available and the parameters of the research project.
• Select the most appropriate investigative methods (surveys, interviews, experiments) and research tools (periodical indexes, databases, websites).
• Plan the research project. Writing Anxiety (UNC-Chapel Hill) Strategies for Academic Writing (SUNY Empire State College)
• Retrieve information using a variety of methods (draw on a repertoire of skills).
• Refine the search strategy as necessary.
• Write and organize useful notes and keep track of sources. Taking Notes from Research Reading (University of Toronto) Use a citation manager: Zotero or Refworks
• Evaluate sources using appropriate criteria. Evaluating Internet Sources
• Synthesize, analyze and integrate information sources and prior knowledge. Georgetown University Writing Center
• Revise hypothesis as necessary.
• Use information effectively for a specific purpose.
• Understand such issues as plagiarism, ownership of information (implications of copyright to some extent), and costs of information. Georgetown University Honor Council Copyright Basics (Purdue University) How to Recognize Plagiarism: Tutorials and Tests from Indiana University
• Cite properly and give credit for sources of ideas. MLA Bibliographic Form (7th edition, 2009) MLA Bibliographic Form (8th edition, 2016) Turabian Bibliographic Form: Footnote/Endnote Turabian Bibliographic Form: Parenthetical Reference Use a citation manager: Zotero or Refworks

Adapted from the Association of Colleges and Research Libraries "Objectives for Information Literacy Instruction" , which are more complete and include outcomes. See also the broader "Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education."

• Our Mission

Getting First Graders Started With Research

Teaching academically honest research skills helps first graders learn how to collect, organize, and interpret information.

Earlier in my career, I was told two facts that I thought to be false: First graders can’t do research, because they aren’t old enough; and if facts are needed for a nonfiction text, the students can just make them up. Teachers I knew went along with this misinformation, as it seemed to make teaching and learning easier. I always felt differently, and now—having returned to teaching first grade 14 years after beginning my career with that age group—I wanted to prove that first graders can and should learn how to research. 

A lot has changed over the years. Not only has the science of reading given teachers a much better understanding of how to teach reading skills , but we now exist in a culture abundant in information and misinformation. It’s imperative that we teach academically honest research skills to students as early as possible. 

Use a Familiar Resource, and Pair it with a Planned Unit

How soon do you start research in first grade? Certainly not at the start of the year with the summer lapse in skills and knowledge and when new students aren’t yet able to read. By December of this school year, skills had either been recovered or established sufficiently that I thought we could launch into research. This also purposely coincided with a unit of writing on nonfiction—the perfect pairing.

The research needed an age-related focus to make it manageable, so I chose animals. I thought about taking an even safer route and have one whole class topic that we researched together, so that students could compare notes and skills. I referred back to my days working in inquiry-based curriculums (like the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program) and had students choose which animal to study. Our school librarian recommended that we use Epic because the service has an abundance of excellent nonfiction animal texts of different levels.

Teach the Basics for Organized Research 

I began with a conversation about academic honesty and why we don’t just copy information from books. We can’t say this is our knowledge if we do this; it belongs to the author. Instead, we read and learn. Then, we state what we learned in our own words. Once this concept is understood, I model how to do this by creating a basic step-by-step flowchart taught to me by my wife—a longtime first-grade and kindergarten teacher and firm believer in research skills.

• Read one sentence at a time.
• Turn the book over or the iPad around.
• Think about what you have learned. Can you remember the fact? Is the fact useful? Is it even a fact?
• If the answer is no, reread the sentence or move onto the next one.
• If the answer is yes, write the fact in your own words. Don’t worry about spelling. There are new, complex vocabulary words, so use your sounding-out/stretching-out strategies just like you would any other word. Write a whole sentence on a sticky note.
• Place the sticky note in your graphic organizer. Think about which section it goes in. If you aren’t sure, place it in the “other facts” section.

The key to collecting notes is the challenging skill of categorizing them. I created a graphic organizer that reflected the length and sections of the exemplar nonfiction text from our assessment materials for the writing unit. This meant it had five pages: an introduction, “what” the animal looks like, “where” the animal lives, “how” the animal behaved, and a last page for “other facts” that could become a general conclusion.

Our district’s literacy expert advised me not to hand out my premade graphic organizer too soon in this process because writing notes and categorizing are two different skills. This was my intention, but I forgot the good advice and handed out the organizer right away. This meant dedicating time for examining and organizing notes in each combined writing and reading lesson. A lot of one-on-one feedback was needed for some students, while others flourished and could do this work independently. The result was that the research had a built-in extension for those students who were already confident readers.

Focus on What Students Need to Practice 

Research is an essential academic skill but one that needs to be tackled gradually. I insisted that my students use whole sentences rather than words or phrases because they’re at the stage of understanding what a complete sentence is and need regular practice. In this work, there’s no mention of citation language and vetting sources; in the past, I’ve introduced those concepts to students in fourth grade and used them regularly with my fifth-grade students. Finding texts that span the reading skill range of a first-grade class is a big enough task. 

For some of the key shared scientific vocabulary around science concepts, such as animal groups (mammals, etc.) or eating habits (carnivore, etc.), I created class word lists, having first sounded out the words with the class and then asked students to attempt spelling them in their writing.

The Power of Research Can Facilitate Student Growth 

I was delighted with the results of the research project. In one and a half weeks, every student had a graphic organizer with relevant notes, and many students had numerous notes. With my fourth- and fifth-grade students, I noticed that one of the biggest difficulties for them was taking notes and writing them in a way that showed a logical sequence. Therefore, we concluded our research by numbering the notes in each section to create a sequential order. 

This activity took three lessons and also worked for my first graders. These organized notes created an internal structure that made the next step in the writing process, creating a first draft of their nonfiction teaching books, so much easier. 

The overall result was that first graders were able to truly grasp the power of research and gathering accurate facts. I proved that young children can do this, especially when they work with topics that already fascinate them. Their love of learning motivated them to read higher-level and more sophisticated texts than they or I would normally pick, further proving how interest motivates readers to embrace complexity.

ChatGPT for Teachers

Trauma-informed practices in schools, teacher well-being, cultivating diversity, equity, & inclusion, integrating technology in the classroom, social-emotional development, covid-19 resources, invest in resilience: summer toolkit, civics & resilience, all toolkits, degree programs, trauma-informed professional development, teacher licensure & certification, how to become - career information, classroom management, instructional design, lifestyle & self-care, online higher ed teaching, current events, five ways to teach research skills to elementary school children.

Search engines can streamline the process of teaching basic research to elementary schoolchildren who require expert guidance on how to navigate the Web — and the earlier, the better.

Elementary school is when kids first begin to learn how to learn. Kids start using search engines quite early on, making elementary school the perfect time to teach research skills that become a foundation for a lifetime of learning.

The base skill for all schoolchildren is the ability to sift content for relevance and accuracy. Here are five ways teachers can help improve this skill in elementary-age children.

1. Define the task

What exactly must be researched? It’s very easy to get lost if children do not know precisely what they are looking for. In elementary school the subjects may be relatively simple, but they still must be defined accurately to aid in the search.

Teachers should talk with students about what they will be looking for and how to get specific results. The more specific they can get, the easier it will be to come up with search terms.

2. Discover keywords

Elementary school students may not fully grasp the concept of keywords, so they’ll need to be instructed in this foundational aspect of search technology. Search engines perform well only if correct keywords are used, and students need to learn how to come up with those words to get the results they need.

Keywords are typically based upon the most common approach to discussing a subject. Often, it will take some trial and error to discover just what keyword combination yields the desired results. Teachers can create a whole lesson around keywords, including what they are, how they work and how to find them.

3. Use appropriate tools

Google and Bing are probably the most popular search engines, but they may not be the best for teaching research skills to young people. Teacher Mary Beth Hertz recommends one of the more popular search engines for students, Sweet Search, whose results are screened by experts. Using something like Sweet Search may make it easier to teach research skills by weeding out a lot of the chaff that so often comes up on the more popular engines.

4. Teach about source hierarchy and evaluation

Elementary students can comprehend the tiers of legitimacy related to information-gathering. Teachers can explain about primary sources, original research and the reliability of information found on the Web. Kids can learn about how information travels from research papers to news sources to blogs and so on.

By going through examples, teachers can demonstrate the way various information sources find their information and present it to the public, and how to determine which information is best to use for their projects.

Children may not need to cite abstracts from scientific research papers, but they can learn to seek information more intelligently.

5. Take notes and compile information

The complexity of note-taking skills will depend on the students’ grade level, but even kids in the younger grades can learn to take pencil to paper and record the most important pieces of information they gather. The better they get at finding quality sources, the easier the note-taking will become.

Students should also learn how to cite their sources appropriately.

Setting up a lifelong skill

Learning research skills at a young age will give students a skill that will serve them over a lifetime. This skill will not only be useful in school, but in their everyday lives as they attempt to absorb ever-increasing amounts of information. Teachers will do their students a great service in teaching these skills.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to do college research right: step-by-step guide.

College Admissions , College Info

College research can be an overwhelming task, and it's not easy to know where to begin. In this article, I'll help you sort through your options and find your dream college.

If you work through the following four steps, you'll be well on your way to compiling a list of schools that fulfill all your most important criteria:

• Identify your priorities
• Search with an online college finder
• Consider your chances of admission
• Finalize your list

In the next few sections, we'll cover how to research colleges in a straightforward and effective way.

Step 1: Identify Your Priorities and Preferences

The first step in tackling the college search process involves thinking about what you want out of your college experience. There are some essential qualities that differentiate colleges from one another that you should consider first, such as location, size, cost, and academic programs. You should also contemplate what you want out of the social scene and academic climate at your college. Then, you can search for schools that fit your needs across a variety of different dimensions.

Primary Factors

Here's a list of the first four factors you should consider when searching for colleges:

#1: Location

Do you want to be far away or close to home? Attending an in-state school can mean a lower tuition price, but it may stunt your college experience if you continue to rely on your family and old friends. You should also consider whether you're interested in a rural, urban, or small town college environment. The surrounding area can have a big impact on your happiness and comfort level.

Large and small colleges often have very different vibes. You're more likely to get personalized attention at small colleges , but they might have fewer resources and less diversity amongst students. You should research each college individually, but there are certain characteristics shared by most large or small colleges that might lead you to prefer one type over the other.

#3: Academics

You're going to college primarily to learn stuff, so academics should be up there on your priority list. Just how serious of an academic environment are you looking for? Do you want a school that focuses on undergraduate teaching or research? What types of programs interest you? If you have any ideas about your potential major, keep that in mind as you search for schools so you can apply to places that offer the best programs for you.

Selectivity and reputation also come into play here. Based on your test scores and GPA, you can predict your admissions chances at different schools (more about this later). It's advantageous for you to attend the most competitive school possible based on your stats. This will provide you with the greatest number of opportunities both in college and in your post-graduate endeavors.

Tuition prices are something you should think about in your college search, but don't let a high price prevent you from applying if you really love a school. Right now, you should just work on determining whether cost is an issue for you. If so, focus your search on schools that offer generous financial aid and merit scholarships . You can also investigate colleges with no application fees.

Secondary Factors

This list goes into some other factors to think about in your college search that are less fundamental but can still have a really strong influence on your experience.

#1: Social Scene

This is a vague term, but you should have some idea of what type of social environment you're looking for in college. Do you want to be at a party school? Or are you more of a library-all-day-every-day type? Are you at all interested in Greek life? Do you want to be able to go out to bars and clubs? Make sure the environment at the school you choose will be a fun place for you to spend four years.

#2: Housing

Is it important to you to have a really nice dorm? Do you want to be able to live off campus at some point? Schools may offer more or less variety in housing, so this is definitely worth considering. Universities located in rural areas may have fewer options for living off campus.

Are you looking for a school with lots of dining options? This is important to consider especially if you have special dietary preferences or requirements. Whatever accommodations you need, make sure the schools you choose have the ability to provide them.

#4: Extracurriculars

Think of any extracurricular activities you want to pursue in college. If these are priorities for you, you should ensure that any schools that you're considering have the appropriate resources. Extracurriculars are a huge part of the college experience for most students, and they provide a great social outlet outside of the party scene and classes.

#5: Athletics

If you're hoping to play a sport in college for fun, you should make sure that anywhere you apply will give you that opportunity. Are you planning to work out in college? If this is a priority for you, look for schools that have high-quality athletic facilities and give students full gym access. Many schools offer exercise classes for students at their gyms, which is a really nice perk.

As you consider these factors, you can continue to customize the priority order to fit your needs. Some of the factors I listed as "secondary" might actually be of primary concern to you. If you feel that something is a priority, don't discount it just because other things are "supposed" to be more important. You may even be totally indifferent to some of the factors I've listed (for example, "athletics" are a foreign concept to us hardcore nerds). That's fine too! You can choose to ignore these factors in the next step.

Now that you're armed with your preferences and priorities, it's time to start your college search for realz.

Step 2: Search for Schools Using an Online College Finder

After you've figured out your preferences, the easiest way to find schools that you like is to use an online college finder tool to search based on your criteria.

One option that you might consider initially is College Navigator . You can specify location, size, major program, public or private, tuition, test scores, and more in your search. This tool will give you all the statistics on different schools and help you locate options that seem like the right fit. As you investigate the results of your search, add schools to your "favorites" and compare them side by side to see how they differ. This might eliminate some options based on factors like cost and admissions rate.

Another site to investigate is Cappex . Cappex is a college matchmaking site where you can fill out a profile and get matched up with schools that align with your preferences. The site provides suggestions for schools that you might like after you complete your profile. It has a pretty complete overview of each school including student reviews and information about campus life that might not be included in the College Navigator statistics.

If you find schools that you like, you can add them to your running list and compare them against each other. Cappex also links directly to the application pages for schools on your list of favorites, so you can check out what materials you're expected to submit.

There are also a number of other sites you can use at this stage. The link at the beginning of this section will take you to my reviews of the ten best college search websites. Feel free to use whichever one seems most accessible to you!

Step 3: Consider Admissions Chances and Reputation

Once you've figured out what you want from a college and have gotten some solid suggestions from search sites, you should step back and take an objective look at your results. It's important to maintain realistic expectations in the college application process, so you should choose schools where you have reasonable chances of admission.

Though the sites I mentioned above may give you statistics for a school's average test scores and GPA, it's difficult to understand your chances of admission just by looking at statistics. I would recommend that you Google "(name of school) PrepScholar admissions requirements" to access our database pages about each school. Use the tools on these pages to enter in your GPA and SAT scores and calculate your chances of admission.

In general, if your chances are below 30 percent the school qualifies as a reach school . A school with an admissions rate that's below 15 percent is a reach school for all students regardless of scores and GPA. If all or most of the schools you're interested in are reach schools, it's time to adjust some of your criteria to allow for other options. Only a third of the colleges where you apply should be reaches.

This is also a good time to check ranking lists like US News and Forbes to see whether the colleges that interest you have decent reputations. However, be careful when considering these rankings! If two schools are within ten or so ranks of each other, there probably isn't much of a difference in quality between them.

Rankings are a tool to be used after you've already picked out schools based on other factors. If you're trying to decide between two schools and the lower ranked school is a much better fit for you, then you should still apply to that one. Rankings are more of a tie-breaker to be used when all other measurements are equal. Prestige can be important because it generally means a more intellectual student community and greater academic opportunities, but you should put your personal goals and priorities above the prestige of the school.

After consulting these resources, you'll end up with a better sense of the quality of your preliminary list of schools. This leads to the next step, making your final college list!

Step 4: Make a Final List

Now that you've gathered all of this information, it's time to tweak your list of schools so that it has a nice balance of different options. As I mentioned in the previous section, it's important to have reach schools, but they should only make up about a third of your list. Another third of the schools should be likely options, and the last third should be safety schools .

You can use the same process as above to look up potential likely and safety schools and check your admissions chances. Safety schools are schools where you have at least an 80 percent chance of admission. Likely schools are schools where you have a 30 to 80 percent chance of admission. These can be further divided into "possible" and "probable" options. Possible options will be in the 30-50 percent range, and probable options are between 50 and 80%.

Most students end up applying to around 5-8 colleges in total. Start out with three schools in the reach category, three in the likely category (two probable and one possible), and three in the safety category. Then, if you find that you're overwhelmed by the application fees or the supplementary essays, you can always cut out 2-3 schools. Be honest about whether you can realistically see yourself attending all of the schools on your list.

You should also do some research to check whether the schools on your list use the Common Application or if they require you to fill out separate applications. This can have a big impact on the time you spend on the process. You might decide to eliminate a school from your list if you're not super attached to it and it's the only option that requires an individual application.

Once you've balanced your list, begin brainstorming your application essays and deciding which accomplishments and activities you want to highlight for colleges. Read this article about how to create a versatile application for some more tips!

What's Next?

Now that you know how to do research colleges, you should also be able to put it into practice. Learn more about the application deadlines that will be most critical for you.

College ranking lists can be helpful tools if you use them in the right way. Find out about all the college ranking lists you should read and how much you should rely on them.

Looking to attend a top-notch liberal arts school? Here's a list of the 28 best liberal arts colleges in the country.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Samantha is a blog content writer for PrepScholar. Her goal is to help students adopt a less stressful view of standardized testing and other academic challenges through her articles. Samantha is also passionate about art and graduated with honors from Dartmouth College as a Studio Art major in 2014. In high school, she earned a 2400 on the SAT, 5's on all seven of her AP tests, and was named a National Merit Scholar.

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12 Things Older Adults Should Do Before Going Back to School

Posted: December 21, 2023 | Last updated: December 21, 2023

You’re never too old to go back to school. There are plenty of good reasons for you to decide to pursue an education as an older adult.

You may want to try a new career to make more money , or perhaps you want to learn new things since you have extra time to do so.

However, the decision to go back can be daunting. Consider these tips if you’re considering returning to make the decision easier.

Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially

Determine why you want to go back

Going back to school is a major decision. You need to figure out exactly why you’ve decided to take on this challenge to  avoid throwing your money away .

Defining your motivation can be a smart way for you to focus on the process and the best way to do it.

But the process can also help you decide that this isn’t the right move and that you should try something else that may not take as much time, effort, or money.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

Check for tuition waivers for seniors

One of the great things about some states or colleges is that you can get tuition waivers if you’re an older student.

Check into the laws for your state or contact local schools and community colleges to see if you qualify for a tuition waiver.

If you qualify, find out exactly how much of your tuition is covered and if there are additional costs like books or other fees that may not be included in the waiver.

Consider the financial implications

Returning to school has financial implications, such as using student loans to cover tuition, reworking your budget to pay for tuition, or spending extra money on campus for parking or food.

Consider these costs and make sure you include them in your monthly estimated budget to see if going back to school is feasible, especially if you retired early or are living on a fixed income.

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Look for senior-only classes

Some schools may have continuing education courses specifically for seniors that might not cost as much as regular student tuition or are geared toward older students.

See if senior courses may cost less than a typical course at a college or university by visiting the school’s website or calling its enrollment office.

Think about taking online courses

You may be intimidated about going to a college campus with younger students or might not have a college nearby with the programs you want.

Consider online courses instead that allow you to work at your own pace, try new options, or stay at home while going back to school.

Consider living close to campus

You may also decide to immerse yourself in the college experience if you’re going back to school.

Think about moving close to campus, allowing you to walk to classes or enjoy campus life even if you’re doing so as an older student.

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Find the best degree programs for older adults

Some degree programs may be better for you to pursue than others. Consider vocational schools or a two-year program like an associate degree rather than attending school for four years.

You may also want to check on getting possible credit for a college degree you might already have or previous college classes that can count toward your new degree.

Review other options

You may think of school as your only option to change careers or do something different, but other choices may be available.

Research certifications or qualifying for a license for a particular position. Your previous experience could also be a good base for you to change careers or try something new instead of school.

Set specific goals

You may want to go back to school now that you’re older or if you’ve retired early. But why do you want to go back?

It’s important to set goals for yourself to keep you motivated and get a clearer picture of what you plan to do with the things you learn.

It can also help you better understand why you’re going back and what you want to achieve with your work.

Break the Cycle: 8 moves to escape the paycheck to paycheck grind

Don’t go overboard

You may think college is easy now that you’re older and have more life experiences and decide to add extra classes to your schedule or take on extra projects.

But remember that college is more than just the hours you’re sitting in class. It can include work outside of school or additional positions like an internship.

Enjoy different campus amenities

One of the great things about being on a college campus again is the campus amenities you can enjoy.

You may want to work out between classes at the school’s rec center or attend evening lectures or other events while on campus.

See if you can fit it into your schedule

One of the great things about being older or retired is that you can travel more  or fill your days with volunteer work and other activities.

So make sure you can fit college into your personal life if you’re returning to school while also balancing your other activities.

Money Goals: Make these 7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank

Bottom line

Returning to school can be a rewarding experience when you’re older, so make sure you get the most out of it.

Consider putting college costs like tuition and other expenses into a  high-yield savings account  you can draw from when needed while also earning extra interest on the money in there.

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To Protect Human Health, We Must Protect the Earth’s Health

“The Earth crisis now represents a humanitarian crisis,” says Sam Myers. But there are solutions that serve both people and the planet.

Public Health On Call

Human activities have transformed and degraded Earth’s natural systems. But it’s not just the planet that endures the harms of things like pollution and climate change. Changes like rising ocean temperatures and CO2 levels have cascading effects that threaten the future of humans.

In this Q&A, adapted from the  April 22 episode of Public Health On Call ,  Joshua Sharfstein , MD, talks with  Sam Myers , MD, faculty director of the new  Johns Hopkins Institute for Planetary Health and founding director of the  Planetary Health Alliance , about this interdisciplinary approach to understanding how the state of the planet impacts human health and well-being.

What is planetary health?

Planetary health is a cross-disciplinary field that has emerged in the last eight or nine years. It focuses on how our transformation of nature—our degradation and alteration of all of our planet's natural systems—is coming back to affect our health.

Climate change, biodiversity loss, global-scale pollution of air, water, and soil, changes in land use and land cover—all driven by human activity—are resulting in increased burdens of disease and impacting all dimensions of human health. We want to understand what those dynamics are and how we can address them.

What are some examples of changes impacting human health?

We know that ocean warming is changing the size of both fish and fisheries. It’s also changing where the fisheries are located, moving them away from the tropics and toward the poles. We did a study to determine how many people depend on wild-harvested fish for critical nutrients and live close to a threshold of insufficient intake of those nutrients—what we define as the vulnerable population to these changes. We found that over a billion people fall into this category.

We’ve also found that crops like rice, wheat, and maize—foods that provide most of the calories in the global diet—tend to lose essential nutrients when grown at elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide like the ones we expect to see by about the middle of this century.

In our  free air carbon dioxide enrichment (FACE) experiments , we grew 41 cultivars of those kinds of crops in seven locations across three continents over 10 years. We found that growing these staple food crops at high CO2 levels significantly reduces the amount of iron, zinc, and protein they contain. We then modeled what these findings would mean for populations in 150 countries and found that the CO2 effect alone would cause around 150-200 million people to be pushed into nutritional insufficiency of these nutrients.

Other research has shown that growing different cultivars of rice at elevated CO2 resulted in B vitamins being reduced by almost 30%. We used that data to model what that might mean for the risk of things like neural tube defects, and we found really large impacts.

What other environmental factors does planetary health consider?

Changing levels of CO2 in the atmosphere is just one very specific biophysical change, but we're changing all the biophysical conditions that our entire food production system has been developed to be optimized for: temperature, precipitation, amount of arable land, pollinators, and pest and pathogen relationships. All of those things are now changing in response to human activity in ways that usually represent headwinds for global food production, in terms of both quality and quantity.

How does planetary health address the extreme scale of the changes humans are causing the environment and the consequences of those?

The field of planetary health has emerged out of a recognition that the pace and scale at which we're transforming all our natural systems has become a global health crisis.

The global health impacts of the Earth crisis are kind of a silent pandemic, and there are parallels to the COVID pandemic we've just come out of. The COVID pandemic required massive mobilization of new technologies, investments in economic stimulus and foreign assistance, respect for science, and urgent global behavior change. This silent pandemic is probably much more impactful to human health. It could be addressed in a very similar way, but we’re doing very little.

You can't respond to a crisis until you recognize that there is a crisis. As you are trying to raise concern over planetary health, how is that warning signal being received?

The field is growing very quickly. We started the  Planetary Health Alliance about eight years ago, and we now have more than 400 organizations involved in more than 70 countries. There's been a very rapid proliferation of new courses, degree programs, and journals in planetary health. We’re also seeing government agencies adopting planetary health as a frame, including the European Union, certain national governments, and the UN system.

There has been a rapid understanding and recognition of the global health urgency related to the Earth crisis, but it's a drop in the bucket of what is really needed to fully mobilize and address the crisis.

Are there solutions that can address multiple problems at once?

Yes. From a policy standpoint, the goal is to find opportunities to both optimize human health and well-being and reduce our ecological footprint. In order to protect and regenerate the Earth’s natural life support systems, we have to change the way we’re living. The good news is there are a lot of ways we can do this, and many of these changes also have major co-benefits.

For example, switching to clean, renewable energy is important to addressing climate change. Doing so also reduces the amount of air pollution, which drives something like 9 million deaths every year. Greening our cities and designing them to be walkable and bikeable not only reduces greenhouse gasses and increases biodiversity; these changes also provide major mental and physical health benefits.

What is the Planetary Health Alliance and what does it do?

Contrary to what it sounds like, the Planetary Health Alliance doesn’t fight for the planet’s health—they’re fighting for human health and the health of other species.

It’s a recognition that the well-being of all life on earth depends on stable natural life support systems. Things like degradation of biodiversity, pollution, and land use change all interact with each other in very complex ways that affect these foundational conditions for all life on Earth:

• The quality of air that we breathe.
• The quality of water that we consume.
• The quality and quantity of food we can produce.
• Exposure to infectious disease and extreme weather events.

And these impacts are driving an urgent set of health problems.

The Alliance functions as sort of the backbone organization for this growing global field. That includes curating new knowledge, writing the  first textbook for the field , developing core competencies for education, creating a  platform to support educators and planetary health around the world, organizing an  annual meeting , and putting out  a newsletter .

One half of the Alliance’s focus is to create and support a global community of practice. The other half is what we call “mainstreaming planetary health,” which means taking that community of practice, the new knowledge, and conceptual frameworks out of the field and connecting them to action.

We’re working to ensure that policymakers, the private sector, and the general public are aware that the Earth crisis now represents a humanitarian crisis and that there are a variety of solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

Tell us about the Planetary Health Institute you've started at Johns Hopkins.

The Institute is the first example of a major university using planetary health as a lens to bring faculty and students together across all of its schools and centers. The Institute is bringing together people in the arts and humanities, engineers, natural scientists, and people in government, law, and policy around this central project of planetary health. We’ll focus on research, education, policy, practice, and clinical  programs . And already, there are all kinds of interesting interdisciplinary initiatives at Hopkins that are focused on planetary health: One on planetary health cities, one on Indigenous health, and another one on food systems, just to name a few.  

This interview was edited for length and clarity by Aliza Rosen.

• Healthy Planet, Healthy People
• New Johns Hopkins Institute Aims to Safeguard Human Health on a Rapidly Changing Planet (JHU Hub)
• Planetary Health: Thinking About the Earth Crisis as a Humanitarian Crisis (podcast)

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About 1 in 5 U.S. teens who’ve heard of ChatGPT have used it for schoolwork

Roughly one-in-five teenagers who have heard of ChatGPT say they have used it to help them do their schoolwork, according to a new Pew Research Center survey of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17. With a majority of teens having heard of ChatGPT, that amounts to 13% of all U.S. teens who have used the generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot in their schoolwork.

Teens in higher grade levels are particularly likely to have used the chatbot to help them with schoolwork. About one-quarter of 11th and 12th graders who have heard of ChatGPT say they have done this. This share drops to 17% among 9th and 10th graders and 12% among 7th and 8th graders.

There is no significant difference between teen boys and girls who have used ChatGPT in this way.

The introduction of ChatGPT last year has led to much discussion about its role in schools , especially whether schools should integrate the new technology into the classroom or ban it .

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand American teens’ use and understanding of ChatGPT in the school setting.

The Center conducted an online survey of 1,453 U.S. teens from Sept. 26 to Oct. 23, 2023, via Ipsos. Ipsos recruited the teens via their parents, who were part of its KnowledgePanel . The KnowledgePanel is a probability-based web panel recruited primarily through national, random sampling of residential addresses. The survey was weighted to be representative of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 who live with their parents by age, gender, race and ethnicity, household income, and other categories.

This research was reviewed and approved by an external institutional review board (IRB), Advarra, an independent committee of experts specializing in helping to protect the rights of research participants.

Here are the  questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and its  methodology .

Teens’ awareness of ChatGPT

Overall, two-thirds of U.S. teens say they have heard of ChatGPT, including 23% who have heard a lot about it. But awareness varies by race and ethnicity, as well as by household income:

• 72% of White teens say they’ve heard at least a little about ChatGPT, compared with 63% of Hispanic teens and 56% of Black teens.
• 75% of teens living in households that make $75,000 or more annually have heard of ChatGPT. Much smaller shares in households with incomes between $30,000 and $74,999 (58%) and less than $30,000 (41%) say the same.

Teens who are more aware of ChatGPT are more likely to use it for schoolwork. Roughly a third of teens who have heard a lot about ChatGPT (36%) have used it for schoolwork, far higher than the 10% among those who have heard a little about it.

When do teens think it’s OK for students to use ChatGPT?

For teens, whether it is – or is not – acceptable for students to use ChatGPT depends on what it is being used for.

There is a fair amount of support for using the chatbot to explore a topic. Roughly seven-in-ten teens who have heard of ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use when they are researching something new, while 13% say it is not acceptable.

However, there is much less support for using ChatGPT to do the work itself. Just one-in-five teens who have heard of ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use it to write essays, while 57% say it is not acceptable. And 39% say it’s acceptable to use ChatGPT to solve math problems, while a similar share of teens (36%) say it’s not acceptable.

Some teens are uncertain about whether it’s acceptable to use ChatGPT for these tasks. Between 18% and 24% say they aren’t sure whether these are acceptable use cases for ChatGPT.

Those who have heard a lot about ChatGPT are more likely than those who have only heard a little about it to say it’s acceptable to use the chatbot to research topics, solve math problems and write essays. For instance, 54% of teens who have heard a lot about ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use it to solve math problems, compared with 32% among those who have heard a little about it.

Note: Here are the  questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and its  methodology .

• Artificial Intelligence
• Technology Adoption
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Olivia Sidoti is a research assistant focusing on internet and technology research at Pew Research Center

Jeffrey Gottfried is an associate director focusing on internet and technology research at Pew Research Center

Many Americans think generative AI programs should credit the sources they rely on

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11 Things to Consider When Choosing a High School

Take these factors into account to determine the best fit for a soon-to-be high school student.

Choosing a High School: What to Consider

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For the high school experience to be fruitful, experts say it's important that students are in the right environment.

Whether the goal is to attend college or take another route , much of the groundwork for a student's future is laid in high school .

But for the experience to be fruitful, experts say it's important that students are in the right environment.

"Choosing a high school isn't just about the brand name," Pierre Huguet, CEO and founder of admissions consulting firm H&C Education, wrote in an email. "Parents want to make sure their child will be happy on a campus that meets their academic, extracurricular, and personal needs."

Some families have more choices than others when it comes to high schools, depending on their financial situation and where they live. For those who can choose and are considering a private or boarding school , looking at public schools outside their district , or thinking about a charter or magnet school, here are 11 things experts say families should consider.

Academic Program Offerings

One of the first determining factors for many families is the type of academic programs a school offers, experts say. Parents should research whether a school offers dual enrollment , Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate programs, "or other ways that courses can be accredited or partner with another external institution to provide that level of academic rigor," says Sasha Chada, founder and CEO of admissions consulting firm Ivy Scholars.

"Parents who want their children to go on to higher education should look for more rigorous coursework," he says.

If the student is interested in pursuing a particular subject area, such as theater or journalism, parents might also want to consider whether the school provides related opportunities.

Determining how much money to spend – if any – on a child's high school tuition can be a challenging but important decision for parents.

“Take a hard look at the public schools in your area ... before you start applying to top private schools, because you just might have a gem in your neck of the woods," says Brian Taylor, managing partner at college admissions consulting firm Ivy Coach. "That public school might be more highly regarded than the top private school."

Many private schools offer financial aid or scholarships to help offset the cost.

Extracurricular Activities

In addition to academic success, extracurriculars play a significant role in college admissions. Many students participate in clubs, sports teams and school organizations, so it's important to weigh the options a school offers, especially if a student has a specific hobby, experts say.

If an activity isn’t offered, students should ask if the school would allow them to create their own club or be creative in accommodating an interest, says Nellie Brennan Hall, a senior private counselor at education consulting firm Top Tier Admissions. Launching a club demonstrates leadership, experts say, which can be a differentiating factor for students in college admissions.

Extracurriculars can also play a vital role in helping students enjoy their time in high school. For students whose plans don't include college, extracurriculars can be a way to develop skills and further cultivate interests and relationships that help forge a path for their future, experts say.

Parents should consider the location of the school and the logistics of how their child will commute. In-district public schools generally offer bus transportation, and students who live close enough may also be able to walk or bicycle to school.

A private or magnet school or out-of-district public school may not offer buses and require a longer commute, which may be tiring for students and cut into free time or fun activities, Huguet says.

"Not only is this a time sink, but being located far from school can make it much harder for students to get involved with extracurriculars there," Chada says.

Getting a feel for a school's diversity should be a high priority for families, experts say.

No matter what type of school a student attends, there are often tradeoffs when it comes to racial, economic and other forms of diversity, Chada says, so families should consider what's most important to them. In addition to demographics, parents might want to examine how schools demonstrate sensitivity to various cultural issues and how they teach about race and racism.

A 2016 report from the Century Foundation, a progressive New York-based think tank, says there's a body of research indicating that students benefit from being in diverse classroom settings.

"If reams of social science evidence is correct in arguing that diversity makes us smarter, and if higher education researchers are correct about their findings related to college students," the report says, "our elementary and secondary education students have much to learn and gain from public schools that are diverse and in which professional educators know how to build on that diversity to help all students learn deeper, better, and more creatively about themselves and others."

School Size and Environment

Whether it's a small school that can provide students with more personal attention or a larger school with more opportunities to build relationships, parents should pick the environment that's best for their child.

Families may also want to consider the school's student-teacher ratio. Though Chada favors smaller class sizes , he says large schools with bigger class sizes can still provide quality learning opportunities and support for students.

School counselors are a vital part of the college admissions process, Brennan Hall says, and a school's size may affect a counselor's availability to students. If a small teacher-student ratio is important to families, they may want to also consider a school's counselor-student ratio.

Resources for Special Needs

Experts say one advantage of larger schools is that they tend to have more resources available for students with special needs. And public schools are required by federal law to provide an appropriate education for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment possible.

Private schools are not subject to this requirement, though some cater specifically to students with disabilities. Families for whom this is a priority should determine if their child's needs can be met at a particular school.

"Visit learning centers and schedule times to speak with representatives who can explain the services available for students with special needs," Huguet says. "If your child has special needs, this step should take precedence over all of the other variables."

School Culture

The culture or vibe of a school can make or break a family's decision. The best way to determine if a school's culture is a good fit is by visiting the school and seeing how students interact with each other and with staff, experts say.

"Parents need to think deeply about their individual child and what type of culture will help them thrive," Brennan Hall says. "Some students love a competitive environment. Some prefer a religious school where many students share their faith. Others truly blossom in a nurturing culture."

Graduation and College Attendance Rates

While families may not want to base their decision on numbers alone, certain statistics can suggest how successfully a school prepares students for the next stage of their lives.

Two stats to consider are graduation rates and college attendance rates, experts say. Many schools also list the colleges their students attend. This information is typically found on the high school's profile page, which is generally linked on the school's website.

Students should look at average SAT and ACT scores from the school and match them to the target test scores of the colleges they're applying to, Chada says. Average AP scores can also show how strong a public school is, he says.

"Also look for the number of universities that students matriculated at from your school and ask yourself if these are the kind of universities that you’d want to go to," he says. "It’s easy to figure out if you’re going to be a good fit."

Safety and Security

School shootings and cyberbullying are increasing, according to a 2023 report prepared for the National Center for Education Statistics. The number of shootings with casualties increased from 11 in 2009 to 188 during the 2021-22 school year, according to the report, which was based on data from the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics.

The report also indicates that nearly 8% of public schools reported at least one incident of cyberbullying among students per week during the 2009-2010 academic year. That number increased to nearly 16% during the 2019-2020 academic year.

Issues of student safety and security "have become differentiating factors for families over growing concerns about violence in schools," Huguet says. "Parents should look into the school's safety policies, procedures, and request records of incidents."

As technology plays an increasing role in teaching and learning, it's important to understand what technology is available at a school and determine whether it fits the student's needs or interests.

Huguet also recommends asking whether schools restrict or encourage access to certain new digital tools, like ChatGPT .

"Parents should feel free to ask about how technology is used in the classroom and whether the school adapts its curriculum accordingly to help students develop critical thinking skills and learn about new systems," he says.

See the complete  Best High Schools  rankings.

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