For this first part of this project, I would like for students to do the following:
- Select a Social Problem. This could be one that was discussed in the textbook and/or in class or one that is an agreed upon Social Problem in the United States or in other countries.
- I would like for you to research this problem and past solutions. I would ask that you do so academically through Google Scholar or the CTC library (JSTOR, EBSCO, or even ERIC) by examining academic resources on the issue (not wiki sites).
- Once you have researched your issue, then you are ready to write your proposal by using a structure that addresses: Executive summary. Short and to the point, the executive summary is essentially the solution’s elevator pitch. It states the problem clearly, addresses how your proposed project intends to solve the problem, and discusses what a successful solution looks like.
- Background or history. This section addresses how we know this is an issue and explains both successful and unsuccessful previous projects, including how the latter could have been handled better, with the goal of showing how the proposed project will be more successful based on the lessons of the past.
- Requirements. This section briefly summarizes what’s needed for your solution to be successful in terms of resources, individuals, institutions involved, etc.
- Solution. The solution section explains how you intend to approach the solution and bring it to completion. It covers the steps, techniques, and skills needed to get things done more efficiently, as well as how to manage problems. Consider how your solution is different than those previously used or suggested.
- Taking it Back to the Class. Based on your solution what theory or concept discussed in the course would support your solution. What research is available to show that your solution would be successful (Google Scholar and JSTOR or are great places to look for empirical evidence.)
- References, Tables, and Appendices. Any information not included in the actual proposal should be in the appendix, such as materials and resources. Students are expected to cite their sources both internally (within the text and slides) and with an end citation. Please see “START HERE” on the left-hand side for examples.
I would ask that students write this as a proposal, rather than a paper. Website to assist with writing a proposal – Proposals should be at least 2 pages in order to address all elements above.
