HST 120, Introduction to Science & Technology Studies
Fall 2013

Group Project Assignment

Small groups of students will explore a compelling issue in contemporary society using the methods and theories of STS that we have discussed in this course. Your group project wiill pass through the following phases:

1. Define the subject and scope of your research (due Tuesday 10/8)
Groups should submit a brief (200-300 word) statement that explains the subject and scope of your project. The statement should address the following questions: What questions will you ask, how do you plan to answer them, and what will be the output of your research? You should also include a preliminary bibliography of no less than 10 sources.

2. Create an outline of your research project (due Tuesday 10/22)
Your outline should present the major components of your project, including:
- Introduction and Background
- Relevant Social Groups
- Alternatives; and
- Recommendations.

You should use the roman numeral form, and you should include a timeline for when you plan to accomplish each project component.

3. Provide a progress report (due Tuesday 11/5)
Your progress report should include:
- an updated statement of subject and scope (~500 words to explain what your project examines and what it does not)
- updated bibliography, and
- updated project outline.

You should bring a written copy of this progress report to class, and you should be prepared to speak for 5-10 minutes to tell the class about your project and your progress so far.

4. Present final draft report to class (due Thursday 11/21)
Deliver a multimedia presentation to the class that describes your research and presents recommendations. You should use the appropriate amount of slides (powerpoint), video, handouts, etc. Your presentation should take between 10 and 15 minutes, and you should be prepared to answer questions from me and your classmates.

5. Present final report and submit recommendations (due Thursday 12/5)
Your final report should include:
- an introduction that contains an overview of your project
- sufficient background for someone to understand the breadth and depth of your topic
- a section that identifies relevant social groups
- a section that describes different alternatives for addressing the problem or problems you have identified
- your recommendations
- a bibliography with complete MLA style citations