Include the following components:
An introduction with a research question
A clearly defined problem
A clear, concise thesis statement (i.e., what you intend to demonstrate as a result of your problem definition)
A literature review of the problem
A discussion section in which you critically analyze the results of your literature review. It is here that you substantiate the conclusions that you draw from your analysis, which supports your thesis. This is also where you bring in course learning materials.
A conclusion section
You are required to engage with a minimum of six readings from the course. This may be accomplished by directly quoting readings that substantiate your claims/thesis and summarizing and articulating specific concepts from the reading that further your analysis. Use of the readings must show your mastery of the text and ability to apply the text to your own original argument.
Be sure to use proper APA (7th edition) citations and references throughout, including a separate reference page (this page doesn’t count towards the required 12-14 pages).
Support your claims through evidence. A strong research paper will substantiate the analysis by examining specific evidence and/or drawing upon the course reading. You may use a case study (if it is from your clinical experiences, make sure to make all information anonymous), draw upon a case sample from the reading, draw upon testimonials, discuss a policy and link it to everyday practice, and/or draw upon data.
You must at minimum consult with at least two outside scholarly sources (journal articles or books). If you are unsure what counts for credit, consult with the professor/instructor. News articles/blogs/media reports/Wikipedia do not count as scholarly texts.
