PHILADELPHIA UNIVERSITY
SchoolofLiberalArts
L354.479 & 354.480 – Area Studies: Africa
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RESEARCH PAPER
Description of Paper
One of the major requirements for this course is that you write a typed 7-10 page research paper on contemporary Africa. This research paper should be a focused in-depth exploration of a topic which as much as possible combines your current and prospective career interests with the subject matter of this course.
Since this is a major research paper and not just a “report”, you will be expected to draw on ideas and information culled from current, relevant sources as well as your own knowledge and insights. You will need to be able to evaluate contrasting viewpoints and interpretations and then devise your own perspective on your topic. You also will need to use good research methods. This means having the ability to find useful material through electronic databases as well as through other research means. It also means taking the time to ensure that your sources are yielding reliable, truthful information. Your paper, at a minimum, must consult at least 12 sources, excluding encyclopedias and other reference works (avoid “Wikipedia”). It can be misleading for Africa). These 12 sources should be evenly divided between Internet materials; data base articles, and printed books. You should plan to spend a substantial amount of time on this project. For many of you, traveling to other libraries than the University’s will be necessary. Please take this fact into account when budgeting you time for the semester.
Format
Your paper must be word-processed in a standard typeface and font. Use standard margins (1” – 11 ½”) on top, bottom, and on both sides. Number the pages of your paper. A standard page has about 250 words per page. All use of all sources must be appropriately documented both in the body of your paper and in your Works Cited list. Use MLA documentation unless you have been directed otherwise. You must staple and number each page or your paper will be returned to you ungraded. Under no circumstances, can you e-mail your paper. E-mailed papers will be returned ungraded.
Grading
This paper counts towards 30% of your final grade for the course; 5% for the topic proposal and 25% for the research paper itself. Please note that in order to receive credit for your proposal, you must turn it done in the proper format on the date due
Stages of this project:
1. Topic Approval
To get your topic approved, you must submit a proposal that begins with a paragraph-long description of your projected topic. Following this statement, in separate paragraphs, explain (a) what you already know about the topic, (b) what you think you might learn, and (c) how the topic fits each of the objectives for the assignment. End by listing 3-5 questions that you will want to investigate in your research (see attached sample proposal). These questions should form the foundation of the paper and be key to the topic under study.
Your proposal MUST be approved before you proceed with your project. You may not change your topic without approval. If your topic has not been approved in advance, your paper will not be accepted. If you do want to change your topic and your new topic is approved, you must still turn in a topic proposal for your new topic.
The proposal is due: February 2
2. Extra Credit Packet on Research Methods
I have prepared three exercises designed to enhance your research skills. One exercise enables you to evaluate sites more efficiently. A second exercise will help you work with databases more effectively. The third exercise, an annotated bibliography, encourages you to read books and journal articles more analytically. If you successfully complete all three parts of the research methods packet, I will increase your grade on your research paper by 10%. Please note you must complete all three assignments and hand them in on time to receive the 10% grade bonus.
The packet is due: March 16
3. Submission of Paper
Your Paper will be due: March 23
4. Revision of Paper
Any student receiving a grade below 85 on their paper is encouraged to submit a re-write. Two conditions must be met for a re-write. First, students need to meet with me to discuss any relevant content issues. Second, students MUST have a session at The Learning Center. Your grade on the re-write will supercede your grade on your initial draft. All revised papers must be submitted by the date of the final exam.
Academic Honesty
Please familiarize yourself with the University’s regulations on plagiarism. There will be a zero tolerance policy in this course regarding academic dishonesty, whether deliberate or accidental. Although we will discuss what constitutes plagiarism in class, please do not hesitate to consult me if you have any questions on this matter. I will check all papers for plagiarism using the latest software programs which are extremely efficient. All infractions will be dealt with in accordance with the stated university procedures.
Suggested Topics
To get you thinking about your research paper, I have listed below, 20 potential topics.
Roots of Environmental Crises in Africa (choose one or two countries)
Militarization of Childhood in Sierra Leone and/or Liberia
Revival of Democracy in Sénégal, Mali or Ghana
Islam in Sénégal
The Rise of African Fashion Designers
Ecotourism in Tanzania or South Africa
Oil and Development in Nigeria
Popular Music in Nigeria, Sénégal, or The Congo
Plight of Civilian Women in African War Zones
Religious Conflict in Nigeria
New Patterns of External Aid to Africa (Oprah, Bob Geldof, Bono etc.)
Diamond Smuggling in Angola and/or Sierra Leone
Women in Ghana
Traditional Architecture in Nigeria
Contemporary Art in Sénégal or Nigeria
Soccer (football!) in Africa
African Immigration to France
African “Traditional” Medicine
Mud brick Mosque Architecture in Mali
Corruption and Democracy in Kenya
Note: There is a moratorium on the following two topics: “Female Circumcision in Africa” and “AIDS in South Africa”.
