Finding a suitable topic is often the most difficult part of any research task. The choice often seems endless, so spending time thinking about your topic is an essential part of the process. It is important to take the time to explore current issues relevant to your interests. Discuss your ideas with your lecturer, and then start to explore them online, in the library and in journals and newspapers.
Use the resources on this page to help you test and explore your project ideas.
Ask yourself the following questions:
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Answering these questions will give you an idea of what you want to base your research project on. It is important you consider access to information. Many research articles are behind paywalls and so can be expensive to obtain. Choosing a subject matter that is topical, current, and available makes it easier to find relevant information.
Mind maps and concept maps can help you visualise, connect and narrow down your ideas. Start with the topics you have identified by answering the previous questions, and let your imagination flow.
Try out a free mind mapping tool, or have a look at the mind maps on Credo to help you. The WhiteBoard app on your Office365 account can also help you to put your ideas in order.
Watch this short video from NC State Universities Libraries explaining the importance of testing your ideas when choosing your topic.
Perfect for exploring potential topics, especially for Welsh Baccalaureate projects. This is a top source of information on contemporary social issues.
Topics include, crime and disorder, health matters, the environment, sustainability, education, human rights and discrimination, and more.
The Conversation is an excellent resource for finding current topics of discussion. It is an independent source of news, analysis and expert opinion, written by academics and researchers.
It is a free global knowledge project with content produced by scholars from across the world. Explore the resource to discover topics and ideas for your project.
Oxplore is a digital resource devised by the University of Oxford to challenge students with debates to tackle complex ideas across a wide range of subjects. It is a useful resource to begin exploring topics of interest.
Credo Reference is a really good place to start your research journey. Using the basic search function will allow you to search encyclopaedias and dictionaries for definitions and backgrounds on most topics. The addition of the mind-map tool allows you to explore similar and related topics in your chosen subject. Check out their useful quick research videos for tips to help you with your project.
Documentaries, interviews and general programmes often pique our interest in topics and frequently raise our awareness of unfamiliar issues. BoB is a great resource for finding such resources.