When All Else Fails...

...at getting students excited and interested in research, what can you do? Is it the process or the product causing student angst?

There are, essentially, three groups of students in a high school: the group definitely, without a doubt, heading to college; the group undecided about college, but who are probably going because that's what they think they need to do; and students planning on heading straight into the military, workforce, or a trade school. (Note: this is based on what the STUDENTS say they are planning, not on parental or guidance counselor expectations.) For the first group, completing any project is a necessity and, therefore, done with varying degrees of grumbling and complaining. The second group usually completes a project, whether whole- or halfheartedly. The third group, even if they have excellent grades, will ask, "What's the point?"

So let's back up a moment and discuss the "dreaded" research paper, and how it applies to the groups. Universities and colleges expect students to be able to perform the research process independently, efficiently, and effectively. They require students to produce a paper, of varying lengths for different classes or departments, in a specific format. This process is rarely TAUGHT in higher education. Therefore, the first two groups need proficiency before graduating from high school. The third group, however, rightfully wonders the need for learning to write a formulaic paper when it does not apply to their future plans. Is it any wonder this last group balks at the time-consuming writing project? However, the need to learn research skills is important no matter the career so the process is necessary still!

This leads to an alternative to the research paper: a website!

(First, let me stress that the requirements for learning how to use authoritative, accurate, unbiased, current sources does not change. Whether searching a database or using a website that must be evaluated, students must learn strong research skills. Also, writing skills are important to effectively communicate without the use of texting abbreviations so spelling, grammar, mechanics, and punctuation are important! Finally, to be a 21st Century learner, students need to understand how to be a good digital citizen. Images, sources, etc. need to be cited properly.)

Allow students to research just as they would for a formal paper, but instead of putting it into paragraph form with an introduction, thesis, transitions, and a conclusion, why not have them create a Google site (or other easy to navigate website platform)? Require an "about me" page, a home page (this would be a longer introduction to the topic!), a page for details (the body of the research paper's details), and a citation page. Allow the use of copyright-free images from creative commons websites, the Library of Congress, public domain sites, etc. if they are properly cited.

See if this changes the interest level, efforts, and quality of work from your "group 3" students!