DAubuchon 2018 updated
INDEPENDENT RESEARCH REPORT [2000 words max]
TASK: You will choose an issue of international relevance and report on it for AUSTRALIA and one other country. In order
to do this you must formulate a specific question that the report intends to answer. The issue must relate to how people
are affected by it.
KEY QUESTIONS and STRUCTURE * Word count is important – both overall AND per section (keep a balance).
CONTENTS PAGE
INTRODUCTION [~150-200 words]
aims [broad]
parameters [specific including limitations ie. word limit]
definition (s} if needed
thesis [Point of view]
BACKGROUND TO THE ISSUE [~500-600 words]
Describe the issue in a global context.
In what ways were Australia your chosen country engaged in and/or affected by this issue?
Limit your research to about the last 10-15 years when considering the global importance of this issue (i.e. 2000-2015)
where possible.
CURRENT ACTIONS/REACTIONS TO THE ISSUE [~650-800 words]
Describe the current public actions or strategic plans of people who are actively responding to this issue in the two
countries you have nominated.
Refer to the actions of several representative groups or voices and examine in detail at least two of these for each
country. What is being done about this issue now? The actions and reactions can be individuals, groups, governments
or non-government organisations.
Discuss, analyse and evaluate the main results (e.g. successes and/or failures) with references of the examples you
give.
Limit your research to the last 5 years where possible.
SUMMARY and CONCLUSION [~250-400 words]
Summarise the points you have made
Conclusion
In your opinion, what are the next feasible action steps needed to help transform. the issue? i.e. what would your
recommendations be? This information must go forward from information in your report.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Broad source base Correct Harvard format