6.1 Selecting a research topic

• In-depth analysis of findings is included in the Analysis and Interpretation criterion.

  True
• Understanding the assessment criteria is crucial for maximizing success in the Independent Research Project.


  True
• Personal experiences, such as studying abroad in Germany, can inform your research topic.

  True
• What does the Analysis and Interpretation criterion focus on?

  Critical evaluation of sources
• What should you focus on when identifying suitable research areas for your Independent Research Project?

  Areas you find engaging
• How does a focused research question strengthen your analysis in the Independent Research Project?

  Keeps research focused
• When developing a research question, you should start with a general area of interest
• When developing a research question, ensure it aligns with the assessment criteria
• Match the assessment criteria with their descriptions:

  Research and Planning ↔️ Thorough research, clear aims

  Analysis and Interpretation ↔️ In-depth analysis of findings

  Communication and Presentation ↔️ Well-structured report, clear language

  Independent Study Skills ↔️ Work independently, manage time
• How can personal experiences, such as studying abroad in Germany, inform your research topic?

  Provide firsthand insights
• Align your research topic with your academic or professional aspirations
• A vague research question is preferable for guiding research.

  False
• Steps for developing an effective research question

  1️⃣ Start broad

  2️⃣ Be specific

  3️⃣ Make it manageable

  4️⃣ Align with assessment criteria
• What is the first step in creating a preliminary timeline?

  Identify project phases
• Main assessment criteria for an Independent Research Project

  1️⃣ Research and Planning

  2️⃣ Analysis and Interpretation

  3️⃣ Communication and Presentation

  4️⃣ Independent Study Skills
• When choosing a research topic, focus on areas of German language, culture, or history that you find most fascinating
• When identifying suitable research areas, align your topic with your academic or professional aspirations
• A focused research question provides a clear direction and scope
• Avoid vague or overly broad questions and focus on a particular issue
• Ensure your topic can be sufficiently covered within the length of the project
• Assign an estimated duration to each task
• Thorough research and clear aims are part of the Research and Planning criterion.
• The ability to work independently and manage time effectively falls under Independent Study Skills.
• Considering academic interests helps you identify what aspects of German studies particularly fascinate you.
• Clear aims and objectives are part of the Research and Planning criterion.
• Initiative and effective time management are key components of Independent Study Skills.
• A focused research question guides your research and provides a clear direction.
• What does developing a focused research question help guide in an Independent Research Project?

  Research direction and scope
• What does it mean to make a research question "manageable"?

  Ensure feasible scope
• What is an example of a focused research question related to German literature and history?

  Thomas Mann's reflection of upheaval
• When exploring personal interests for a research topic, consider your academic interests
• Focusing on areas of German culture or history that you find engaging will help you identify suitable research areas.


  True
• What is the first tip for developing an effective research question?

  Start broad
• What should a research question align with to ensure its effectiveness?

  Assessment criteria
• What is one factor to consider when assessing topic feasibility?

  Scope
• What is one action to take based on feedback to refine your research topic?

  Adjust the scope
• Match potential research areas with examples:

  German literature ↔️ Literary analysis

  German history ↔️ Cultural influences

  German language ↔️ Linguistics

  Contemporary society ↔️ Social issues
• What should you align your research topic with?

  Future goals
• Why is developing a focused research question crucial for your project?

  Guides your research
• What is the first step in developing an effective research question?

  Start broad