Notes on Undergraduate Research and Primary Research Methods

Introduction to Undergraduate Research

  • Instructor Introduction:
    • Tanika White, Teaching and Learning Librarian at Howard University.
    • Background in research publishing and undergraduate research coordination.

Learning Objectives

  • By the end of the course, students should be able to:
    1. Identify and explain three primary research methods: observation, interviews, and surveys.
    2. Locate and evaluate scholarly articles that implement these methods using the library's database.
    3. Analyze the strengths and challenges of different research methods in academic studies.

Definition of Undergraduate Research

  • Definition: Research conducted by undergraduate students that results in an original intellectual or creative contribution to their discipline (Council on Undergraduate Research).
  • Four Components:
    1. Originality: Related to meaningful contributions to knowledge.
    2. Mentorship: Collaboration with faculty or experienced researchers.
    3. Methodology: Use of appropriate techniques or methods.
    4. Dissemination: Sharing research findings.

Research Process Overview

  • Process Steps:
    1. Choosing a topic
    2. Conducting a literature review
    3. Posing a research question
    4. Developing research methods
    5. Collecting data
    6. Analyzing results
    7. Presenting findings
  • Dynamic Nature: Research processes can vary greatly for each student with potential setbacks and iterations.

Research in Different Disciplines

  • Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences Examples:

    • Compose music for a self-built instrument.
    • Write scripts for VR video games.
    • Investigate the evolution of intercultural communities through historical records.

  • STEM Examples:

    • Development of metal shaping methods for aerospace applications.
    • Engineering solutions to facilitate renewable biodiesel use.

Role of Undergraduate Students in Research

  • Tasks include:
    • Finding sources and reading journal articles.
    • Writing literature reviews with faculty members.
    • Evaluating sources and seeking guidance from faculty researchers.
    • Collecting and analyzing data, seeking underlying themes.

Primary Research Overview

  • Definition: Primary research is the collection of original data directly from sources through methods such as observations, interviews, and surveys.
  • Purpose: Provides firsthand evidence and insights specific to research questions.
  • Complement to Secondary Research: Fills gaps left by existing literature.

Types of Primary Research Methods

1. Observation
  • Definition: Involves systematically watching or reporting behaviors, events, or conditions.
  • Types:
    • Participant Observation: Researcher actively engages in the setting.
    • Example: A librarian who participates in a study group.
    • Nonparticipant Observation: Researcher observes from a distance without interaction.
    • Example: A librarian discreetly noting how students use library resources.
  • Strengths: Provides real-time data and context-rich insights.
  • Challenges: Variables such as observer bias and subjectivity can affect results.
2. Interviews
  • Definition: Direct questioning of individuals to gather in-depth perspectives.
  • Types:
    • Structured: Fixed questions with no deviation.
    • Semi-structured: A mix of fixed questions and flexibility for follow-up.
    • Unstructured: Open-ended, conversational approach.
  • Strengths: Yields deep insights and personal perspectives.
  • Challenges: Time-consuming and requires strong questioning skills.
3. Surveys
  • Definition: Collecting data through questionnaires, which can be multiple-choice or open-ended.
  • Methods: Can be conducted online, in-person, or via phone.
  • Strengths: Can reach a broad audience and collect a wide range of data.
  • Challenges: Designing effective questions is crucial; potential for low response rates.
  • Importance of Using Database: Engaging with library databases rather than general searches like Google leads to more reliable and relevant research.
  • Bison Search: Main search engine for accessing databases, journal articles, books, and more.
    • Example process: Starting search with "undergraduate research", refining results by filtering to articles, sorting by publication date for recency, and saving articles for later review.
  • Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC): Collaboration allowing access to a larger pool of resources from multiple institutions.
  • Navigating Specific Databases: If needed, students can explore specific databases tailored to their subject matter for concentrated results.

Group Activity

  • Objective: Locate an article via Bison Search that utilizes observation, interviews, or surveys as a method.
  • Expected Output: Title and author of the article, method used, and reasoning behind the choice of method.
  • Presentation: Selected students to present findings briefly.

Questions and Discussion

  • Encouragement for students to inquire further about research methods and resources available for their academic endeavors.

Conclusion

  • Underlines the value of comprehensive research methods and effective usage of library resources to enhance undergraduate research.