Research Paper
Research Paper
You will formulate your own research question for this 10-12 page paper that is relevant to
issues or themes raised in one of the final course units (Violence; Reproduction/Eugenics;
Education & Employment; Art, Culture, & Identity). Specific topics must be approved at least
10 days before the due date. Email your proposed topic to the course supervisor as early as
possible in order to allow time to address any amendments or clarification that may be required.
The foundation of a strong critical analysis is grounded in a clear and specific topic. For
example, while people with disabilities are at higher risk of being the victims of violence than
the general population, their risk factors and experiences are not always identical. Therefore,
instead of submitting a general topic on “violence against people with disabilities,” you should
refine it further. “Violence against women with communication impairments” or “Risk factors
for violence in long-term care facilities” are examples of better choices, as a more specific topic
will compel you to develop a more focused analysis.
This paper should include reflections on how the course material and conceptual framework(s)
relate to your topic. Your analysis should draw upon or make reference to at least three of the
readings from Units Seven through Ten (required). In addition, you must reference at least five
other external sources (academic journals, books, newspapers, statistical reports). Electronic
journal articles accessed via the library or other academic search engines are fine, but other web
resources should be incorporated as additional resources, over and above the minimum academic
research requirements. All sources need to be referenced.
Note: As emphasized throughout the course, social welfare, and policies pertaining to people
with disabilities, are dynamic fields. Please try to incorporate research that is current, and
relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re discussing educational opportunities for disabled
people in Canada, then please incorporate Canadian data to the fullest extent possible. Starting
early will help ensure that you are able to access the kind of information you need to support
your argument. If you are having difficulty finding the kind of information that you need, then
contact the course supervisor.