STEM 201: Research Methods I

Credits
2
Weekly Contact Hours
2
Course ID
092058
Meets Degree Requirements For
Natural Science
Description

Provides a comprehensive introduction to research proposal writing, research methodologies, and foundational research theories and protocols. Examines how to write a proposal, engage in independent studies, and work collaboratively in a mentor-mentee relationship with a faculty advisor. Establish the foundation of a research project to be completed the next quarter(s).

Grading Basis
Graded
Prerequisites

Course Learning Outcomes

Core Topics

 

  1. Overview of the research process
  2. Research topics, questions, and proposal sections
  3. Literature review, conceptual framework, and research design
    • Understanding peer review articles
  4. Library research and resources
  5. Research methods
  6. Data documentation: Keeping a lab/field notebook
    • Data management
    • Basic statistics
    • Data collection procedures
  7. Introduction to faculty advisors and industry sponsors
  8. Identifying a research topic
  9. Planning your research: Writing a proposal
  10. Preparing a budget
  11. Filling out independent project application