SPC 2608: Introduction to Public Speaking

Library Resources to Help with Topic Selection

There are a few library resources that may help you with selecting and narrowing a topic for your speech. As always, please confirm your topic with your instructor. 

 

Workshops:

USF Libraries offers a variety of Canvas workshops focused on Information and Data Literacy. The following workshop, Creating Manageable Topics and Research Questions, can help you select an appropriate and viable topic for your speech. When you complete the workshop, you will be issued a badge that can be submitted to your instructor or added to your online portfolio. By selecting "Explore Workshop," you will be redirected to the Canvas self-enrollment page. 

This workshop will help you identify workable topics for literature reviews and other projects that will require you to write with sources. Upon successful completion of this workshop, you will be able to:

  • Identify the components of the research process
  • Identify and access sources that could help you gain a working knowledge or background information about your topic
  • Identify characteristics that make a topic either too broad or too narrow
  • Formulate a research question
  • Outline a search plan by using concept maps that document search terms related to your research question

Workshop Level: Intermediate EXPLORE WORKSHOP

 

Gale in Context: Opposing Viewpoints

The Gale in Context: Opposing Viewpoints database integrates scholarly, academic, and statistical content from a variety of print and online sources to offer users access to information on differing points of view on current social issues. You can explore topics, find resources, and refine your argument. 

Tip: Select the "browse topics" icon on the right-hand side of the main page to see a list of potential topics. 

 

Research Consultations

Schedule an appointment with your department's library liaison or subject expert to discuss potential speech and research topics and learn how to search for sources effectively, Complete the research consultation request form to schedule your appointment.