Wise Scholar Module

Watch the video, then click the button to write 2-3 sentences in response to the reflection question: 

Inquiry-based Research

When research is "inquiry-based," it means it is a process that is driven by questioning -- it's where we start and what leads us to each next step. Inquiry-based research allows us to learn as we go, gives us a clear direction to explore, and helps us avoid making premature conclusions. Our questions may change where our research takes us, and our research may change what questions we ask along the way... and that's okay! Research is about discovery, and questions are a natural part of the journey.

The Research Question

Often, a research project will revolve around one main question a scholar is asking -- the research question. The research question is inspired by the scholar's value of wonder, focused on something they are interested in and have decided to investigate more deeply. As the scholar continues their research, their question keeps them on track as they search for information and continue to learn more. Eventually, they may come to a particular conclusion, a connection they see or a point they want to make; this is often summarized as a "thesis statement." In your scholarly work, you may write your paper around your thesis in the end, but your research is guided first and foremost by your question.

3 CRITERIA

A effective research question is:

• Appropriately focused
  • Instead of trying to explain an entire issue or topic, pick a single point or aspect of that topic you want to investigate. Remember, it should be focused an appropriate amount for writing a short research paper, not a long book.
• Interesting and purposeful
  • Always start with wonder - what is interesting and meaningful for you to question further? Think also about what is meaningful to others - this question should actually matter in some way, helping others learn or consider something in a new light.
• Open to objective debate
  • When scholars use research to prove a point or explore a theory, they work hard to carefully maintain an objective tone and remain open to other findings. How can you phrase your question to best avoid emotional biases or jumping to conclusions?

Research Tip: Draft and revise your research question more than once. Your research question may start off broad or generic, but as you learn more about your topic and think more carefully about your interest, you can make that question more effective.