Many teachers shy away from letting students choose their own research topics for projects and papers. But when done properly, student choice can greatly enhance student buy-in and motivation. Here are some pros and cons to consider and tips for supporting students throughout the research process.
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Pros of student choice
- Increased enthusiasm: When students get to study something they actually find interesting, they are more excited and engaged in the work. This leads to higher quality final products.
- Independent learning: Students develop important research skills as they find and evaluate sources on their own chosen topic. They gain confidence in their ability to learn independently.
Cons to consider
- Staying on topic: Some students choose broad or vague topics that make incorporating required course concepts challenging. Provide examples of focused topics to guide students’ choices.
- Depth of research: Students must be taught how to narrow suitable topics down to a manageable scope for a project. Provide research “check ins” to ensure students are on the right track.
Support strategies
- Set parameters: Give students a list of pre-approved topics or subtopics within the unit of study to choose from. Require approval of all proposed topics before research begins.
- Teach research skills: Instruct students in how to refine topics, develop effective search terms, find and evaluate credible sources, take notes and create an outline before they begin.
- Provide scaffolds: Create graphic organizers, source analysis templates, and outline guides for students. Hold individual conferences with students to monitor progress and answer questions as they conduct research.
Weighing pros and cons will help you determine if student choice in research topics is appropriate for your subject and grade level. But with proper guidelines, instruction and support structures in place, giving students ownership of their research can result in higher quality work and deeper learning.
Examples of student choice in research projects
In my 10th grade World History class, I let students choose topics for their capstone research projects. Out of 250 possible options on historical events or figures, I had one student pick the Mughal Empire in India. I initially worried the topic was too specific. But after sharing research strategies and providing scaffolds, his 10-page paper was the best I received!
Here’s what worked:
I provided example topics categorized by historical time period and location to guide student choices. I modeled finding and evaluating sources. We created an outline template to keep him focused on key facts, cultural context, and impacts. I met with him weekly to answer questions and ensure he was on track. His enthusiasm for the topic motivated him to persevere through challenges.
Student choice led to:
- A higher quality final product, as he enjoyed researching something he found genuinely interesting.
- Improved research and writing skills, as he had to determine the most pertinent information independently.
- Confidence in his ability to manage a complex, self-directed project from start to finish.
However, when unchecked student choice can lead to:
- Vague or overly broad topics. I now require students to submit topics for approval and offer alternatives if needed.
- Difficulty connecting research to course objectives. I keep these front and center in check-ins and rubrics.
- Less accountability. Frequent conferences and deadlines keep students moving forward.
By providing structures and protocols up front, instructing students in research skills, and monitoring progress through the process, I’ve found that the benefits of student choice in research topics far outweigh any possible drawbacks. The independent learning and excitement that result make the additional scaffolding and support worthwhile.
