Understanding the process of selecting a research topic for a dissertation in law, including considerations such as relevance, feasibility, originality, and research gaps.
Selecting a Research Topic – Quick‑Reference Notes
| Benefit | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Motivation | Working on a subject you care about sustains effort over months or years. |
| Feasibility | A well‑scoped topic fits the time, resources, and expertise you have. |
| Impact | A relevant, original question increases the chance of publication and real‑world use. |
| Funding & Supervision | Clear alignment with faculty interests or grant calls makes support easier. |
| Step | Action | Tips & Tools |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Brainstorm | List all subjects that intrigue you (no judgment). | Use mind‑mapping software (e.g., XMind, Coggle). |
| 2. Scan the Landscape | Conduct a rapid literature scan (last 5 years). | Google Scholar alerts, Scopus, Web of Science; note recurring gaps. |
| 3. Identify Gaps & Questions | Turn observed gaps into research questions (RQ). | Use the “What‑Why‑How” template: • What is unknown? • Why does it matter? • How could it be investigated? |
| 4. Preliminary Feasibility Check | Ask: data, time, skills, ethics, cost. | Create a simple checklist; talk to a librarian for data sources. |
| 5. Narrow & Refine | Convert broad ideas into a focused statement (1‑2 sentences). | Apply the SMART test (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time‑bound). |
| 6. Seek Feedback | Discuss with supervisor, peers, or subject‑matter experts. | Prepare a 2‑minute “elevator pitch” to get concise reactions. |
| 7. Draft a Working Title | Title should reflect variables, population, and design. | Example: “The Effect of Mobile‑Based Micro‑Learning on Undergraduate Chemistry Performance.” |
| 8. Validate Against Criteria | Re‑run the core‑criteria table; adjust as needed. | If any criterion scores low, revisit earlier steps. |
| 9. Formalize | Write a short proposal (background, RQ, significance, methods). | Use institutional templates; include a timeline (Gantt chart). |
| 10. Obtain Approvals | Submit ethics application, funding request, or department sign‑off. | Keep a log of all correspondence for future reference. |
| Pitfall | Symptoms | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Over‑broad scope | “Study all factors influencing climate change.” | Limit to one factor, region, or population. |
| **Data‑driven rather than question‑dr |