Skunk Ape: Module 1

Module 1: Getting Started with Research

Purposes and Audiences for Research

Whenever you conduct research, you must think of the purpose of the research and the audience for whom the results are intended. A research purpose, as well as intended audience, will have numerous possibilities. Your assignment here is to produce a research paper or a presentation on the topic of the Skunk Ape.  Your purpose is to learn what you can about the subject, complete the assignment and present the results of your research to your professor and your fellow students, hopefully earning a good grade in the process.

After completing the Skunk Ape research, there may even be additional audiences for your research results. For example:

• You may intend to write an article for a scholarly journal or for a popular magazine
• You may be asked to speak at local elementary schools about the Skunk Ape and the environment of the Everglades
• You may be invited to address local conservation groups about your findings

 

In your future career or scholarship, the information and sources that you choose may differ depending on the purpose of the research and the audience to whom you present the results.  

 

Value: 1

What are some common purposes for doing research, either in your role as a student at FGCU or in your future career? a. Classroom discussions b. Term papers c. Formal oral presentations d. Teaching others e. All of the above

 

Value: 1

What are some common audiences for your research results? a. Your classmates and professor b. Other researchers in your field c. Your employer or company d. All of the above

Purposes and audiences can vary widely. What's important to remember is that defining the purpose and audience will help you keep your research efforts focused so you don't get sidetracked or waste valuable time gathering information from inappropriate sources.

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