Harvard System Style, or Harvard referencing, is a citation and formatting style used for academic writing It is also known as the documentation or author-date system style. Harvard referencing is often used in the social sciences and humanities fields, as well as in natural and medical sciences. The Harvard system style is based on the Harvard College Library’s reference list format.
The Harvard System style outlines very clear guidelines for citing different sources, such as books, articles, websites, and more. It also contains guidelines for organizing the reference list at the end of the paper. Harvard System style also provides guidance on how to refer to sources in the text with parenthetical citations.
To cite sources in Harvard System style, the author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number (if applicable) need to be included in the parenthetical citation. For example, (Rhodes, 2009, p. 77) would be used to cite the 77th page of the book written by Rhodes in 2009. The full reference list should then follow at the end of the paper, with the sources listed in alphabetical order according to the author’s last name.
Now that you understand what Harvard System style is, here are five interesting essay topic ideas to get you started.
1. Benefits and Challenges of Distance Learning: With the popularity of online learning platforms, this essay could explore the advantages and drawbacks of distance learning.
2. The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: This essay could discuss the potential ramifications of constant exposure to social media platforms.
3. Is Homework Good for Students?: This essay could explore the potential academic and psychological benefits of having students complete homework outside of school.
4. The Pros and Cons of Technology in the Classroom: This essay could analyze the recent increase of technology usage in classrooms and its impact on student learning.
5. Gender Bias in Education: This essay could explore the implications of gender equality in the classroom and the potential negative impacts of gender bias.