Racial Injustice in the Criminal Justice System: Solutions to End Racial Injustice

To complete this course, you must research and write an original paper on a Criminal Justice topic you choose. The successful completion of this paper should demonstrate your knowledge of (1) theory, (2) writing, (3) research skills and (4) ability to think critically. You should recall core concepts in policing, the legal system, and corrections; prepare a thoroughly researched, organized, and documented research paper in criminal justice by applying critical thinking to analyze problems and practices related to criminal justice.

POLICY: Your grade for the course will be the grade you receive on your Senior Project. Several factors will determine your grade for this research project. All of the factors are directly related to the competency that you need to master focusing on engaging in the practice-informed and research-informed practice of criminal justice including principles of logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. This competency involves three primary processes for translating research findings into effective practice:

Use practical experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research

Apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and research findings

Use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.

Grading Rubric – Your research paper and final grade will be determined on the following items with the maximum score of each item.

RESEARCH. Quality of the Research Topic – Identify the issues and subissues about a criminal justice topic related to your career aspirations or current academic interests. These issues must be feasible, researchable and one in which an answer can be obtained. 30%

DESIGN. There are multiple research designs for writing to meet the demands of your research question and data. The most appropriate design is critical to obtaining the best results. Meet all the writing rules that are stated in this syllabus. 20%

REFERENCES. Quality of References – All research requires the examination of literature related to your topic. The quality of the

references can make a difference in the outcome of your research. Be sure to use scholarly resources predominantly from peer reviewed journals. Your method of citing and referencing your resources are important to the quality of your proposal. 40%

WRITING. Ability to follow the standard formatting of a research report. The headings and subheadings of your proposal should be carefully followed. Appropriate grammar is required. All students should strive toward writing assignments that are free from spelling and grammatical errors. You would be wise to review your paper prior to final submission. 10%