Mind the Gap (in Literature) Research Paper
Each of you will select a topic related to communication and/or engagement themes addressed this semester in
which you have expressed interest. Using scholarly peer reviewed articles from communication journals as a
starting point, you will discuss a significant research problem in the area of interest.
What are the predominant theories that have been applied? What other theories might be helpful in order to understand this problem?
Through a review of the literature, 1) determine the extent to which the problem has been investigated from the
perspectives of theories covered in class (if at all) or 2) propose, with justification, why this problem might be
explored through the use of other theories.
Paper Details and Expectations
The introduction to theory in this course is, intentionally, basic. You are expected to explore more deeply the
theory/theories you want to engage. This requires you conducting research on the relevant literature(s). To be able
to articulate a gap in the literature(s) relevant to you requires you to be able to confidently say what is—and
isn’t—there. You may be coming into the course with already-specified theoretical interests. If that’s the case,
how does a theory from communication intersect, support, or challenge a previously held understanding of theory
(e.g. in leadership, community engagement, etc.)?
If you are starting from communication theory, then what is absent, minimized, or overlooked when it comes to a
concern that may have emerged in the course of the semester thus far? We have not explored much with respect to
grounded experiences of theory through the course readings, but you are encouraged to read ahead and think
about what it means to think about the role of communication in community-based settings as a scholar,
practitioner, and/or civic professional.
• Fundamentally, what is your argument or claim? This is your thesis. Is your thesis clearly evident?
• How well have you used evidence to develop your thesis and to support your own point of view? Have
your surveyed the literature(s) sufficiently to make this claim that there is a gap?
• How well do you demonstrate valid logic and sound reasoning in the course of making your argument?
• How flexible have you been in approaching the topic, rather than letting your preconceptions influence
your analysis of issues and their implications?
• How fair and accurate have you been in presenting complicating viewpoints, and in citing evidence that helps reconcile the opposition?