A starting point for research on education topics, each entry includes an overview, keyword list, and suggested reading.; Full-text; Articles reviewed and updated annually; In addition to original overview articles, this database also includes selected articles from academic journals.
In-depth reports and background information on major current topics and policy issues.
Covering such topics as: social programs, health, social trends, criminal justice, education, the environment, technology, and the economy. Complete summaries, pros and cons, bibliographies and background information are included in each report.; Full-text reports; charts; 1923 - present
From the National Education Association; summarizes current issues that the NEA is involved with, and provides links to reports and other related resources.
How to Narrow and Focus Your Topic
Start by phrasing your subject or general topic in the form of a question.
Then ask yourself further questions about your topic:
What do you know about it? What don't you know?
What aspects or viewpoints of your topic interest you? Examples include social, legal, medical, ethical, biological, psychological, economic, political, and philosophical. A viewpoint allows you to focus on a single aspect.
What time period do you want to cover?
What place or geographic region do you want to cover? Examples include national, international, local social norms & values, economic & political systems, or languages.
What population do you want to cover? Examples include gender, age, occupation, ethnicity, nationality, educational attainment, species, etc.
What is the history of your topic? How did it originate? How has it changed?
How does your topic fit into a larger system or structure?
Next, look for resources which provide background information. Some selected general and specialized subject sources can help narrow the topic.
Remember, there are two layers of research: 1) a broad search to discover resources and to read some background information 2) specific searches for information once you've focused your topic.