LibGuides: SOSC 110 Civic Engagement: Topic Development

Exploring a Research Topic

Getting Started:

In the development phase, do a preliminary search to familiarize yourself with your topic. Use the five Ws to focus your research:

Keep in Mind:

You don't have to answer all of the questions. Some might not apply
or be helpful.
Your research question might evolve and change as you review
the literature.

Center for American Progress
The independent, nonpartisan Center for American Progress is dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans, through bold, progressive ideas, strong leadership, and concerted action. The site includes issue briefs, articles researched and written by policy experts and analysts, fact sheets and more. Issues include gun violence prevention, immigration, LGBTQ rights, poverty, and racial equity and justice.
National Alliance to End Homelessness
A nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to preventing and ending homelessness in the U.S. The site includes information about policy and solutions, data, publications, and training materials.
National Organization for Women (NOW) -- Core Issues
A blog, news, and resources on the core issues addressed by NOW: reproductive rights, economic justice, ending violence against women, racial justice, and LGBTQIA+ rights.
Poverty USA
An educational resource to help individuals and communities to address poverty in America by confronting the root causes of economic injustice—and promoting policies that help to break the cycle of poverty. Click Learn to find maps and data, poverty facts, helpful policies, and materials to help educators initiate meaningful discussions about poverty in America today.

Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
A collection of over 500 specialized reference works covering every major subject.

Encyclopedia of Social Problems by Vincent N. Parrillo (Editor)
Call Number: eBook
ISBN: 9781452265926
Publication Date: 2008
Offers an interdisciplinary perspective into social problems, covering all of the major theories, approaches, contemporary issues, and their interconnectedness.

Brainstorming Worksheet: Topic Development & Keywords
Develop your topic by answering the 5 Ws and brainstorm for keywords.