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Human Subjects Training Information
Survey & Experimental Research Lab (S.E.R.L.) Independent Study |
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Interested in doing communication research or working on creative projects? |
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Consider applying for COM 3980 (Independent Study in Communication) to work in the S.E.R.L. This course is designed to afford exceptional undergraduate students the opportunity to work closely with a faculty member on original research projects or special creative projects in the area of communication. Generally, the course is a three hour credit. Enrollment requires the consent of the Director of the School and the faculty member with whom you would like to work. |
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| Who should consider taking an independent study? | ||
Outstanding Communication majors or minors are welcome to apply for permission to take COM 3980 with Dr. Chad Edwards. The Independent Study experience is especially beneficial for undergraduate students who are considering pursuing an advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Communication or a closely-allied field or for those who anticipate conducting research as part of their chosen occupation.
An Independent Study allows you to work closely with a faculty member and to gain hands-on practical experience in aspects of the research process, including: extensive library research, collecting, analyzing and reporting data conducting interviews, focus groups and experiments, or administering surveys or on aspects of creative projects, including instructional videos or other film projects, designing print or web materials, or working on communication training workshops. Many of these skills are highly valued by graduate programs and in the workplace. Moreover, doing research with a faculty member allows you the opportunity to build a great working relationship that could result in further opportunities and a letter of recommendation.
What does taking an Independent Study with Dr. Chad Edwards entail?
A three credit-hour Independent Study translates to up to nine hours of work per week. You will spend around 7-8 hours performing tasks in the Survey & Experimental Research Lab, S.E.R.L. (201 Sprau Tower). These times will be the same for the entire semester and will work around your class schedule. The remainder of the work for each week will be completed on your own time on- or off-campus. In a given semester, Dr. Chad Edwards is generally involved with 2-3 ongoing research projects that you may be invited to work on.