For this research essay, you will analyze the specific writing and research practices and conventions of the specific discipline of your choice. Your essay will have the goal of sharing your findings with the class. For your research, you can:
Interview professors, students, and professionals on their writing and research practices;
observe a class meeting and collect any syllabi, assignment prompts, or other related documents; Some suggestions for what to ask about:
how is research done in the field and/or what sources are used in research;
what journals are most respected;
are there trusted online sources;
what databases are used most;
what citation format is commonly used in the field you are researching;
what is expected of students in terms of writing;
and what issues and challenges are most current?
What are the expectations for the style of writing? Is it okay to use first person (the word I)? Etc.
Keep track of your research.
Take notes during or immediately after interviews and personal communications;
*Keep any documents you collect in your research.
Include this material at the end of your essay, in an appendix (appendix = added material that belongs with the essay, but doesnt need to be included in the essay).
All academic disciplines expect an excellent command of vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and punctuation, so all of the essays should have this as a goal.