In this course, students will embark on a self-generated research project, engaging them with regional or global issues and promoting communal engagement, while learning core research methods. Students will be able to identify problems within a specific group or community, investigate or create solutions for their chosen group, and communicate their research findings through a creative format known as the "zine”, or mini magazine.
Skills targeted by this course will be research methods, source evaluation, expository and persuasive writing – with a particular focus on writing structure, audience, style, and tone – as well as introductory art design. The final product will be a personalized zine featuring student writing and artwork that will be distributed to their intended audience, showcasing a creative research endeavor to connect and inspire. Students can expect a combination of lecture, group work, and independent writing each day; this class provides learning opportunities structured similarly to a college-level class.