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AI in the Classroom: Brainstorming Activity

Article written by John Wilcox, Communications Instructor

In my course, students choose their own topics for a final research paper of the semester. This semester, I am encouraging students to use AI to help them brainstorm topics. My (too wordy) example prompt was:

 I am in a college writing class, and we get to choose our own topics for a research paper. I want to write a paper on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, but I do not know how I can make that a researchable topic. What are some possible research paper topics for a paper on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles?

The results from both Gemini and ChatGPT were pretty cool, actually. I then walked the students through how they could refine results by prompting the chatbot with specific interests to combine with the proposed topic.

Response from Gemini (formerly Bard):

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Research Paper Topics

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) offer a surprising amount of depth for a research paper. Here are some angles you could take:

Evolution and Representation:

• The Changing Face of the Turtles: Analyze how the portrayal of the Turtles (personality, design) has changed across different media (comics, cartoons, movies)
• Teenage and Mutant: Negotiating Identity: Explore how the concept of adolescence and mutation is used to develop the Turtles' identities.
• Heroes in a Half Shell: The Representation of Masculinity: Examine how the Turtles portray masculinity and how it might have evolved over time.

Cultural Impact and Influence:

• Cowabunga! The Rise and Influence of TMNT: Research the cultural phenomenon of TMNT in the 80s and 90s, analyzing its impact on merchandising, animation, and popular culture.
• Pizza Power! The Intersection of Food and Identity: Explore the unique connection between pizza and the Turtles, considering its cultural and symbolic significance.
• From Comics to the Big Screen: The Transmedia Evolution of TMNT: Trace the journey of TMNT across different media platforms, analyzing how the narrative and themes are adapted.

Social and Environmental Themes:

• Shell Yeah for Conservation! Environmentalism in TMNT: Analyze how the series tackles environmental issues and the connection between the Turtles and their sewer home.
• Heroes in the Shadows: TMNT and Urban Decay: Explore how the show depicts New York City and the social issues it might reflect.
• Family, Friendship, and Brotherhood: Analyze the portrayal of family and friendship dynamics among the turtles and their allies like Splinter and April.

Remember: These are just starting points! You can narrow down these topics or find your own unique angle within the TMNT universe.

Here are some additional tips for making your research paper strong:

• Focus on a specific aspect of TMNT. Don't try to cover everything in one paper.
• Use credible sources. Look for academic journals, critical essays, and interviews with creators.
• Analyze and interpret, not just summarize. Don't just tell the story of TMNT, explain what it means and why it matters.

By taking a focused and analytical approach, you can write a research paper on TMNT that is both interesting and insightful.

I also started a Padlet and challenged the students to get weird or unexpected results that they could share. The Padlet part was actually the most fun part of the exercise because the students leaned into trying to one-up each other with weird topics and trying to get funny responses.

Going a step further:

Add the prompt:

I am a nursing student and want to work with teenagers. What are some more possible topics that include my interest in nursing and the TMNT?

Response from Gemini:

That's a great way to combine your interests! Here are some research paper topics that blend Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with your passion for adolescent nursing:

Teenage Health and the TMNT:

• Shell Shocked! Coping Mechanisms and Adolescent Mental Health: Analyze how the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles deal with trauma, stress, and the challenges of growing up. Relate this to real-life struggles teenagers face and how nurses can provide support.
• Growing Up Green: Physical and Nutritional Needs of Adolescents: Explore the fictional diet of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (pizza!), and create a balanced and informative plan for real-life teenagers focused on healthy eating habits.
• Heroes in Training: Physical Fitness and Injury Prevention for Teens: Taking inspiration from the Turtles' physical prowess, research and propose an exercise and injury prevention program specifically designed for teenagers.

Nursing Practice and the TMNT World:

• Raphael's Rage: De-escalation Techniques in Adolescent Care: Focus on Raphael's character, known for his anger. Research de-escalation techniques nurses use when dealing with agitated teenagers.
• Breaking the Shell: Building Trust and Communication with Teenage Patients: The Turtles rely heavily on teamwork and communication. Explore how nurses can build trust and rapport with often-reluctant teenage patients.
• Reaching Out from the Shadows: Adolescent Mental Health and the Role of the School Nurse: Considering the Turtles' life in the hidden sewers, explore the challenges teenagers face regarding mental health and the unique role school nurses can play in early intervention and support.

Remember: When developing your research paper, keep in mind the target audience. Are you writing for other nurses or educators? Tailor the medical information to their level of understanding.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With some creativity, you can craft a unique and interesting research paper that combines your love of TMNT with your passion for nursing!