BY 10PM ON TUESDAY, 2/10: REVISE and POST your FAVORITE RESEARCH QUESTION as a comment to this post. Select 'Anonymous' from the pull-down menu, and make sure to include your full name in your comment. ALL posts missing names will be deleted and will not receive credit for this assignment.
BY 10PM ON WEDNESDAY, 2/11: READ through ALL of the questions posted by your classmates. Find the two (2) questions that you find most interesting and REPLY to them both. Make sure to include your full name in your comment. Your reply should 1) DISCUSS what you find interesting about the research question and 2) SUGGEST how the question could be improved further.
Robert Moreira
ReplyDeleteWhy is the world round?
I, for one, believe you can deeply improve this question by asking not why, but how. How is the world round? That sounds much better huh?
DeleteNice!
DeleteStephen Baird
ReplyDeleteIn what ways do men struggle with body image issues and why isn't it talked about the way female body image issues are?
I like this research question because its not commonly talked about. I think you can improve your question by making it less broad.
DeleteRoberto Espinosa
DeleteI believe that Women have deeper body image issues compared to Men. A lot of it has to do with media. The female body can and is advertised in pretty much anything you can think of.
From condoms to ice cream, you name it. Most, not all women struggle with this perfect woman, with perfect body image that media has created.
How bout this Stephen: How/why do UTPA male students struggle with body image issues as presented on TV and other media? What is the impact of these struggles on their development as students and professionals?
DeleteAlan E Ramirez,
ReplyDeleteWhat do UTPA students eat? and what kind of cuisine would they like to see around campus?
How bout this Alan: How healthy/unhealthy are the food choices on the UTPA campus? What types of foods do students eat most/less? What is the impact of these foods on their development as students and professionals?
DeleteJose A. Castillo
ReplyDeleteWhy does the USA uses cheap food service to feed high school students even though they're economically very stable compared to other countries?
As we talked on monday, that was my favorite question, i would like to know the real reasons, deffinitly i wouls read your research. You already changed your question and sounds better now. Good Job!
DeleteJose Ramirez
DeleteThis is a very good question, one that I would like an answer to. The food they have in high school is crap and unhealthy. Another way you could rephrase your question: "USA is economically stable compared to other countries, so why isn't there better food service in high schools?" Just a suggestion.
Edgar Llanas
Deletethis is a common problem in high school many students rather not eat the low quality food. maybe you can ask who and how they manage the money because instead of ipad the schools could've improved their food
See Alan's question above. I think you can strategise your research better by focusing on food options here at UTPA. Something like this: Are UTPA's food choices healthy/unhealthy? Who chooses food franchises on campus, and why? Do students have a say in what types of food is offered on campus?
DeleteRubi Valdez
ReplyDeleteWhat effects does the cultural background have in college students?
Michelle Cavazos
DeleteI find this question very interesting because different cultures have different ways of motivation towards academics. For example, stereotypes such as "Chinese being smart", "Mexicans being lazy in school." So will a tradition or knowing your culture change the way someone views academics? What I would change about this question is to just mainly focus on one culture. There are too many cultures out there that you won't be able to find an accurate explanation. So, try focusing in one culture that interest you the most. :)
Get specific and choose one/two cultural traits that interest you. Language, for instance. Here's how a question could look in this vein: What are the advantages/disadvantages of being bilingual on the UTPA campus? Are bilingual students more successful than monolingual students?
DeleteMarioRios
ReplyDeleteDo students at UTPA that not work, perform academically better than those that do?
Stephen Baird
DeleteI like this question because it is one that can actually be studied on campus. I have also wondered this as well. One suggestion would be to maybe word it a little differently, like "How does having a job affect the grades of students at UTPA?" Adding the how to your question will make it more open instead of being a "yes or no" question.
How bout this Mario: How/why does outside work impact the academic performances of UTPA students? Do full-time working students do better/worse than part-time working students? Should students not work at all? What should working students do to have successful academic performances?
DeleteMaximilianoGarcia
ReplyDeleteWhat factors do young adults, ages 17-25, face that influence them to practice a religion?
James Mendoza
DeleteThis is a good question, i want to know more about what can answer this question. I think sensitive subjects like religion need to be spoken about.
Jean-Paul Stivalet
DeleteI find this question intriguing because it can provide so much insight on young adult's tendencies. I think you should narrow down the factors, are you talking about influences in school, community, family etc.
Megan Salinas
DeleteI really like this question because I feel like when people hit the age of 17 they begin to question their beliefs in their religion. I think you should explain factors that have ever influenced you to practice a certain religion.
Giselle Esquivel
DeleteThis is the time when we begin to question everything. It is not anymore about the church our parents took us on Sundays, in most of the cases. It is more about getting to know people that are already involved in certain religion, so if we get invited to join them, we might like it or not. If we do, it can be the religion we chose for the rest of our lives.
Let's make this researchable in terms of the resources/time we have at our disposal. How bout this: What are the different types of religious groups represented on the UTPA campus? Are some of these groups represented more than others, and if so, why? What is the significance of the chapel on campus, and what denomination does it belong to?
DeleteJean-Paul Stivalet
ReplyDeleteIn what ways does culture affect the way in which we see day-to-day activities?
I like this comment because it culture does affect everyone, but I don't think everyone notices it in our day to day activities.
DeleteI think you can improve this question by focusing on one age group in particular.
See my comments for Ruby above. Trick is to get specific as possible. what culture/cultural trait, and what specific activities? How about this: How/why does UTPA students living in the dorms determine how/when to study? Are the dorms an environment that promotes/discourages studying in groups, alone, etc. Just an example, but see where this takes you.
DeleteJose L Ramirez
ReplyDeleteSmoking cigarettes is very addicting and can be tough to quit. A lot of smokers depend on nicotine to ease their nerves, but what makes them start smoking in the first place?
Jose A. Castillo
DeleteInteresting question indeed! From what I know and simply because its kind of like common sense in a way, people start smoking because it's peer pressure. I like this question because there are a lot more reasons behind this topic, more than the one I mentioned above. The good thing about this research question is the use of other opinions as well as experiences from friends,family, or even ourselves. Good selection and you got a lot of research behind this question! Suggestion: The question is good! Just, in my opinion, try to relate this to other addictive stuff so the "conversation" keeps going, but aside from that, good.
Alan E Ramirez
DeleteI love your question sence it seems as you often see smokers around campus. However I think the way you put ur question it might make it harder to research. Maybe you could make it more specific such as why do Utpa students smoke or who smokes more at Utpa males or females?
how bout this: Why do students smoke cigarettes at UTPA? Is it to relieve stress, to fit in, what? Do smoking students do better in their classes or worse? For those who don't smoke, why not?
DeleteMegan Salinas
ReplyDeleteWhen did cats become house-pets?
Michelle Cavazos
DeleteI find your question interesting only for the fact that 1) you want to talk about house-pets and 2) there is something missing for your question that I would like to point out. To make your question better discuss what kind of cats (wild cats, street cats, etc) became house-pets in what location. For example in Abu Dhabi, tigers-- wild cats-- are house pets. Talk about the risks of why cats can be a good or bad thing as house-pets.
How bout this, Meg: How/why is UTPA addressing the cat population on campus? Do UTPA students find cats on campus to be a niussance or not?
DeleteCarla Mazo
ReplyDeleteHow do sports influence student-athletes' education?
Lauro Cavazos
DeleteThis question is really interesting to because I was a student athlete at one point, and I'd like to see the end result of this research question. You can improve this question by maybe selecting a specific sport and why it would influence the student.
how bout this: How do student athletes study at UTPA? How do UTPA student athletes meet the demands of athletics and academic life? What should UTPA student athletes do to succeed in both areas?
DeleteGiselle Esquivel
ReplyDeleteIn the past year Mexico was said to be the first place in obesity problems in the world. Is it a factor that the RGV area which is the closest to Mexico has the highest rate in obesity in the country?
Lauro Cavazos
DeleteThis is interesting because it is seen commonly in the RGV, bringing the question to a local standpoint. I'm not so sure about Mexico being the first place with obesity problems, so you might want to look that up
How bout this Giselle: How/why has obesity affected the lives of UTPA students? Is this a big problem on campus? If so, why? Are students to blame, or are the food choices on campus to blame? What should UTPA students do to overcome the problem of obesity?
DeleteJames Mendoza
ReplyDeleteWhy is it so difficult to create change in our school system when we know something is wrong?
Gabriel Gonzalez
DeleteI really found your question interesting because I have family that are teachers, one issues they tend bring up is they sometimes don't agree with how the school system works, but what I feel can be added to this question is maybe be more precise on what you mean by "wrong", ex: STAR Tests, AR, etc.
Megan Salinas
DeleteI really like your question! My parents both work in education and I constantly hear them complaining about the school system and how they wish they could do something to change it. I feel like you should elaborate on how and why the school system should be changed.
Look to Gab and Meg's advice. Question too broad at the moment. Here's one possibility. Are there any policies at UTPA that you do not agree with? If so, how/why should we change it? Be as specific as possible, like this: What do UTPA students think about the credit cap system, where students are not allowed to take over 120 credit hours or risk paying extra? How/why should UTPA students understand this system, and should it be abolished?
DeleteLauro Cavazos
ReplyDeleteOnly about 11% of the nursing workforce (nationally) are male, why is that? And how does it compare to the percentage of the RGV?
Carla Mazo
DeleteI'm interested in this question because I am pursuing a career in nursing. I think you could compare that percentage to women and also look into that.
Isaac D. Bahena
DeleteI think nursing is categorized as a female position in the medicine field, well at least in the Rio Grande Valley. It has a slight touch of femininity to it, because as a nurse, you take care of others' well being and provide the essential necessities to recover and successfully terminate the healing process.
How bout this Lauro: What are the differences/similarities between male nursing students and female nursing students at UTPA? Which of these is more successful, and why? Why do males choose to become nurses? Is it for the same/different reasons that female students choose to enter this profession?
DeletePaulette Manrique de Lara
ReplyDelete1. Why are Latino students not graduating from college on time or at all?
2. How can professors encourage students to be passionate about what they are studying?
Alan E Ramirez
DeleteThese questions are good although you should mention which Latino students from what school you can re write this and be more specific by asking why are male latinos not graduating from college or females
Giselle Esquivel
DeleteSo many latino (not all) people comes from families with low education level. You might look up about backgrounds latino students live, and why are these factors are affecting lack of encouragement.
I will work with both, P, and then you choose:
Delete1. How many Latinos does UTPA graduate on a yearly basis? Where does UTPA fit into the national average of Latino graduates? Why do Latinos choose to attend UTPA as opposed to other universities?
2. Good question already, but contextualize it with UTPA, like this: How/why should UTPA professors encourage students to be passionate about their studies?
Raquel Gutierrez
ReplyDeleteOn what basis does method accruing emphasize an actors performance? Does it help make a deeper connection with an audience?
You want to define method acting first since most people will not know what that is. Examples of actors using this method would help.
DeleteI like that this question is extremely specific. But I want to blow this question up too, give you some good context in order to allow you room for exploration.
What if you talked to UTPA actors/directors and asked them their opinions about method acting? What if you researched UTPA's Theater Program and explored how/why they employ/do not employ method acting? What if you attended UTPA plays (some coming up; see me) and gauged whether method acting was taking place?
With all this in mind, your questions could look like this: How/why does UTPA Theater employ method acting, and what is the impact of this method on audiences?
Raquel Gutierrez
ReplyDeleteActing*
Michelle Cavazos
ReplyDeleteWhat is the origin of discipline and how is it viewed through Hispanic and Anglo cultures?
Stephen Baird
DeleteThis is a cool question because it's interesting to see how differently the two cultures view the matter. The only suggestion I would make is to focus your question on comparing the views and not necessarily the origin. I think you could still include the basic origin of discipline in your research paper without it being a main part of the paper.
Jean-Paul Stivalet
DeleteI find this question interesting because it can answer questions that others may have about what drives Latinos to do certain things. I would suggest not asking about the origin of discipline because it is too broad and can make it difficult to talk about the ways it is viewed in Hispanic and Anglo cultures.
Not enough room here to talk Foucault or Barthes or Mignolo or Anzaldua or so many others, all of which deconstruct discipline in their own unique, brilliant ways.
DeleteWhat I suggest is that you focus on an actual discipline to bring this question to life. Machismo is a form of discipline, for instance. As a young and vibrant Mex Amer woman, think of all the things your culture expects you to do. These are just examples: marriage, children, college/no college (a lot of young ladies are discouraged from advancing their education, unlike men), so many others. Disciplines are all around us, and the most nefarious and controlling are those that we do not even see; they have become normalized.
Here's what your question could look like: Among freshmen female students at UTPA, how many of them are thinking of marriage in the near future, and why? Are these students being pressured to get married? If so, by whom and why?
Maria Rojas
ReplyDeleteIn the engineering field, how and why are woman treated differently?
I really liked your question because I am a engineering major and I've noticed there is very huge difference of men to women in that major, what I would suggest is maybe describing what kind of "different",. Otherwise good question.
Delete*Gabriel Gonzalez
DeleteRubi Valdez
DeleteThis questions is very interesting. I like it because now a days we are living in a society where woman are fighting for gender equality. That also has something in common with discrimination. I would suggest changing the question and refer to woman discrimination.
Jose A. Castillo
DeleteI really like this question because since I am an engineer major as well I see your point! I have girl-friends that are also in the path of engineering and I don't see why people will be surprised at that... There should be no discrimination for any people; in this case, women. I can see how this research will expand a lot and it will be interesting to read it. Nice, good job! Suggestion: Explain maybe the different treatment when trying to get a job both men and women with the same knowledge.
How bout this: How/why are women treated differently than men in UTPA's engineering program? What are the causes of these different treatments, and where do they come from?
DeleteEdgar Llanas
ReplyDeletewhy is the percentage of African American players higher than any other race?
James Mendoza
DeleteThis question is really interesting, but are you talking about professional athletes in all sports or certain sports?
Carla Mazo
DeleteI like this question because I like watching sports. I think it'll be interesting what you will find during your research but I think you can narrow down your question to a specific sport or specific place.
Roberto Espinosa
DeletePerhaps it's their desire to overcome negative stereotypes. And well obviously most African American's physiques are abnormal. For sure that gives them a huge advantage.
How bout this: At UTPA, what collegiate sports do African Americans participate in the most? Which do they participate in less, and why? In a predominantly Hispanic university, how easy/difficult is it for African American student athletes to fit in on campus?
DeleteSantos Chavez
ReplyDeleteThere are many ways that one uses to heal. How would one be able to heal with writing in particular?
Good question. If by "heal" you mean getting through a tough time in your life, I can see how writing could help someone that's going through a lot. Maybe you could focus on the power of poetry?
DeleteJose Ramirez
DeleteGood question. If by "heal" you mean getting through a tough time in your life, I can see how writing could help someone that's going through a lot. Maybe you could focus on the power of poetry?
This is a good question because it can be seen in many ways like writing as a diary to get through your troubles or writing like in medicinal reports or so on. To make it better trying being more specific on what you meant by healing and writing.
DeleteThis is a good question because it can be seen in many ways like writing as a diary to get through your troubles or writing like in medicinal reports or so on. To make it better trying being more specific on what you meant by healing and writing.
DeleteMario Rios*
DeleteHow about this: How many UTPA students keep a daily diary? Why do these students keep a diary, and how/why does this type of writing impact their daily lives? What are the advantages/disadvantages of keeping daily diary?
DeleteWhy might English Courses in College be useful in non literature majors such as Computer Engineering ?
ReplyDeleteIsaac D. Bahena
DeleteEnglish courses teach the student not only to read and write English, but also to respectively apply it to any other subject or major for that matter, such as doing research the correct way on a particular topic.
Mario Rios
DeleteI like this question because it is interesting and i myself would like to know the answer to it. To better improve this you could ask why even make Engineers take these courses in the first place.
See my re-envisioning of Gabriel's question below. You could go down a similar road, or get more specific like this: How/why is critical thinking significant for Computer Engineering Majors? What types of courses should UTPA Comp Majors enroll in in order to develop their critical thinking skills?
DeleteGabriel Gonzalez
ReplyDeleteWhy might English courses in College be useful in non literature majors such as Computer Engineering?
How bout this, Gabriel: How/why are literature courses useful for non-English majors? What exactly does literature "teach," and how/why can this subject help/hinder the development of non-English majors?
DeleteBecause being diabetic is so common, in the valley, does that make being diagnosed habituating?
ReplyDeleteHow bout this: How/why has diabetes epidemic in South Texas impacted the everyday life of UTPA students? How many students have diabetes, or family members with diabetes, and how does it affect their academic and/or social interactions on campus? What types of resources does UTPA have on campus to help students being impacted by diabetes?
DeleteIsaac D. Bahena
ReplyDeleteHow does music differently affect students while studying? What types or genres of music are more soothing particularly for studying? Does music help? Or does it disrupt the student?
Edgar Llanas
Deletethis is a great question. maybe to stretch your research you might want to consider asking who is it more helping for females or males or what grade are the students in
how bout this: How/why does listening to music help/hinder student study habits at UTPA? What types of genres help students study the best? What types disrupt students?
DeleteRoberto Espinosa
ReplyDeleteI , like many other Hispanics have the same equal rights as white folks. Even while knowing this I still feel inferior to them. Why is it? Is it some kind of social or cultural theory drilled into my head?
This can be contextualized to UTPA, like this: How/why are Hispanic students treated differently than White students at UTPA? What is the impact of these different treatments, where do they come from, and what should we all do to overcome these social obstacles?
Delete