Examine the influences of social connections and technology and civic engagement in academic and professional pursuits.

Final Research Paper

Research the responsibility of a critical thinker in a contemporary society. You may choose any topic that deals with a contemporary social concern. Examine the principles of critical thought in relation to the chosen societal concern, and consider the importance of ethics, moral reasoning, a research-based process to search for truth, and the advantages of information technology in gathering data.

Potential social concerns include, but are not limited to health (e.g., obesity, smoking, or underage drinking), poverty (e.g., homelessness, basic needs, or transportation issues), family relations and dynamics (e.g., teen violence, physical abuse, depression, or suicide), social media (e.g., privacy), immigration (e.g., illegal), and education (e.g., plagiarism and/or cheating).

Your Final Research Paper should:
Include a literature review of three scholarly sources based on the selected contemporary issue. Analyze the validity of the author’s arguments and/or biases.
Explain how academic knowledge impacts the social elements and institutions of both local and global communities.
Assess how the principles of active citizenship could impact the contemporary issue during the next five to ten years.
Include at least one reference to a multimedia component (i.e., podcast, interactive website, blog, or video) and evaluate the relevance of this piece in relationship to academic knowledge and the selected issue.
The paper must be 12 to 14 pages in length (excluding the title and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style. You must use at least 12 scholarly sources, six of which can be found in the Ashford Online Library. Cite your sources within the text of your paper and on the reference page. For information regarding APA, including samples and tutorials, visit the Ashford Writing Center within the Learning Resources tab on the left navigation toolbar.

Writing the Final Research Paper
The Final Research Paper:
Must be 12 to 14 double-spaced pages in length, and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
Must include a title page with the following:
Title of paper
Student’s name
Course name and number
Instructor’s name
Date submitted
Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
Must use at least 12 scholarly sources, including a minimum of six from the Ashford Online Library.
Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford W

Final Research Paper

Research the responsibility of a critical thinker in a contemporary society. You may choose any topic that deals with a contemporary social concern. Examine the principles of critical thought in relation to the chosen societal concern, and consider the importance of ethics, moral reasoning, a research-based process to search for truth, and the advantages of information technology in gathering data.

Potential social concerns include, but are not limited to health (e.g., obesity, smoking, or underage drinking), poverty (e.g., homelessness, basic needs, or transportation issues), family relations and dynamics (e.g., teen violence, physical abuse, depression, or suicide), social media (e.g., privacy), immigration (e.g., illegal), and education (e.g., plagiarism and/or cheating).

Your Final Research Paper should:
Include a literature review of three scholarly sources based on the selected contemporary issue. Analyze the validity of the author’s arguments and/or biases.
Explain how academic knowledge impacts the social elements and institutions of both local and global communities.
Assess how the principles of active citizenship could impact the contemporary issue during the next five to ten years.
Include at least one reference to a multimedia component (i.e., podcast, interactive website, blog, or video) and evaluate the relevance of this piece in relationship to academic knowledge and the selected issue.
The paper must be 12 to 14 pages in length (excluding the title and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style. You must use at least 12 scholarly sources, six of which can be found in the Ashford Online Library. Cite your sources within the text of your paper and on the reference page. For information regarding APA, including samples and tutorials, visit the Ashford Writing Center within the Learning Resources tab on the left navigation toolbar.

Writing the Final Research Paper
The Final Research Paper:
Must be 12 to 14 double-spaced pages in length, and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Ashford Writing Center.
Must include a title page with the following:
Title of paper
Student’s name
Course name and number

To examine the influences of social connections and technology on civic engagement in academic and professional pursuits, we can start by breaking down each element and discussing their impacts separately.

1. Social connections:
Social connections play a crucial role in academic and professional pursuits. They refer to the relationships and networks individuals have with others, including classmates, colleagues, mentors, and professionals in their field. These connections can have various influences:

a) Knowledge sharing: Social connections facilitate the exchange of information, ideas, and experiences. By interacting with others, students and professionals can access different perspectives, learn from diverse viewpoints, and acquire knowledge beyond their own limitations.

b) Emotional support: Social connections provide emotional support during challenging times. In academic and professional pursuits, individuals may face obstacles and setbacks. Having a strong social network can provide encouragement, motivation, and advice to overcome these challenges.

c) Collaboration and teamwork: Social connections enhance collaboration and teamwork skills. Working together with others fosters innovation, problem-solving, and the sharing of resources and expertise. This collaboration can lead to higher quality academic research and more successful professional projects.

2. Technology:
Technology, specifically digital platforms and tools, has revolutionized the way we engage in academic and professional pursuits. Here are several ways in which it impacts civic engagement:

a) Accessibility of information: The internet and various digital resources have made information more readily available. Students and professionals can access a vast amount of information in real-time, enabling them to stay updated on the latest research, trends, and developments in their respective fields.

b) Collaboration and communication: Technology facilitates collaboration and communication, enabling individuals to connect and engage with others regardless of geographical barriers. Online platforms, video conferencing, and social media platforms offer opportunities for virtual collaboration and networking.

c) Increased civic participation: Technology has expanded the possibilities for civic engagement in academic and professional pursuits. Online platforms and social media allow individuals to engage in online communities, discussions, and grassroots movements related to their fields of interest. This can lead to increased awareness, advocacy, and activism.

In summary, social connections and technology have significant influences on civic engagement in academic and professional pursuits. Social connections provide knowledge sharing, emotional support, and collaboration opportunities, while technology enhances accessibility, collaboration, and civic participation. Together, these elements contribute to personal and professional growth, increasing the impact and success of academic and professional pursuits.