Research Methods
Research is the process of gathering information, evaluating it, and applying it to a question or problem.[1] When writing for digital media, research allows writers to narrow their focus. Having a narrow focus makes a blog more interesting and the writer an expert on the topic. Web searches on Google and Wikipedia allow blog writers to gather more information on their selected topic, discover what other bloggers have already written, and gain more insight on their targeted audience. Do not limit research to online sources- articles, books, and scholarly journals can also be useful sources of information.
Gather information[2]
Writing about a specific topic does not automatically make a person an expert in the field. Initially, conducting very broad web searches on a specific topic will generate a great deal of information. It is best to browse through these websites to get a general overview of the topic. When writing a blog it is important to consider the specific purpose of the writing.[3] After gaining a general overview of the topic, the next step is selecting a specific aspect or view point on the topic to write about. The more focused the topic the more interesting the blog will be.
What others have already written
Review the information that other writers for digital media have written on that specific topic. No one wants to read the same thing twice. When reviewing others' writings on a specific subject, look for ways to add to what has been written. Present an opposing position to what has been written, or conceptualize an entirely new perspective on the subject. Researching a specific topic in great depth allows the writer to find their own unique niche on that subject. Research allows the writer to narrow their focus even more- giving them an advantage to be even more of an expert in that field.
Gain insight on the targeted audience[4]
Researching blogs with similar focus will give the writer a better understanding of their intended audience. When writing a blog, it is important to be aware of the intended audiences occupational categories, demographics, gender, culture, and age. [5] Brian Carroll states, " Think about the kind of sites, publications and documents your audience is accustomed to reading". [6]
Notes
References
- Carroll, Brian. "Writing for Digital Media." Routledge; New York, 2010.*
- Lucas, Gerald R., Dr. "Choosing a Blog Topic." LitMUSE. N.p., 4 Feb. 2013. Web. 11 Apr. 2013. <http://litmuse.net/resources/digital-media/choosing-a-blog-topic>.
- Williams, Ann. "The Research Process: Step-by-Step Tags: Advanced, Apa, Chicago, Citations, Composition, Critical Thinking, English, General, History, Interdisciplinary, Learning Support, Mla, Mscc, Plagiarism, Primary Sources, Reference, Writing ." LibGuides at Macon State College. N.p., 4 Apr. 2013. Web. 11 Apr. 2013. <http://guides.maconstate.edu/research>.