Topics in Tech Outline and Research Paper

Description There is one major paper assigned in this course worth 40 per cent of your final grade. Its intent is to allow you to delve into a topic in the field of study of technology and society in depth. A list of possible topics is provided below. The research paper assignment is divided into two exercises designed to enable receiving feedback from the professor before finalizing your work. This paper is to be written as a formal scholarly essay. It is to use five to six scholarly sources, be completely referenced, and provide insight into the thesis topic investigated. The body of the essay, including references and the abstract, is to be 2,500 words (+/- 100 words). Instructions Part 1: Research Paper Preparation. In this first stage of the research paper, you will begin laying the groundwork for your project. Due in Unit 5. Part 2: Final Paper: Your finished research paper based on the professors feedback on the draft version. Due in Unit 7. Suggested Topics The following is a list of suggested topics for your research paper. The intention of the research paper assignment is to get you to explore a narrow topic in depth, and so you might wish to look at an even narrower aspect of any of the topics listed. The objective is to formulate a research question on one of these topics and address it in accordance with scholarly standards. If you wish to alter any of these topics, however, please discuss it with your professor before or upon submitting your essay topic below. Social media, societal norms, and communication AI autonomy in healthcare and ethical decision-making Big Tech, data monopolization, and global political power Autonomous weapons, ethics, and international law Blockchain technology and sustainable development AI-driven solutions for education inequality Environmental impacts of lithium-ion battery production and alternatives Smart cities, privacy, and surveillance concerns Automation, robotics, and the future of work (inequality and job displacement) Equitable access to emerging technologies (AI, biotechnology, etc.) Research Paper Part 1: Research Paper Preparation Due no later than 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the Sunday of Unit 5 Worth 5% of the final grade In this first stage of the research paper, you will begin laying the groundwork for your project. Your submission should include: Topic Selection Clearly state the topic you have chosen and explain its relevance to the course themes. Research Question Formulate a focused, researchable question that will guide your investigation. Outline Provide a brief outline of the main sections of your paper, showing how you plan to develop your argument. Preliminary Bibliography Compile a list of 56 scholarly sources that you will use in your paper. At least two sources must be readings from the course syllabus. Use proper citation style (APA 7th edition). This part of the assignment is designed to help you organize your ideas early, ensure your research is well-supported, and set a clear direction for the later stages of your paper. Evaluation The following rubric indicates those areas you should be focusing on in preparing your assignment, and how the instructor will weigh these components relative to one another. Research Paper Part 2: Final Paper Due no later than 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday of Unit 6 Worth 35% of final grade Based on your professors feedback on the draft, complete your research paper. The final paper should be around 2,500 words (+/- 100) and include: Title page: Include the title, course name, professors name, and your name and student number. Abstract: Include an abstract after the title page that summarize the research problem, thesis, findings, and limitations in 100-150 words. Introduction: Provide background, research aim and objectives, the thesis statement, research questions, and paper outline. Main sections: Organized, relevant sections supporting the thesis. Don’t include a separate literature review section but use the scholarly sources to address the formulated question. Conclusion: Summarize findings, limitations, and future research directions. References: Incorporate five-six scholarly sources, including at least two readings from the course syllabus. List all cited sources and format them following APA 7th edition. Appendix: Write a 150200 word reflection on your research and writing process. Evaluation The following rubric indicates those areas you should be focusing on in preparing your assignment, and how the instructor will weigh these components relative to one another.