This class is divided into four lessons. Lessons must be completed in consecutive order. Lessons include readings, tutorials, quizzes, written discussion board forums and/or a final project.
LESSONS
QUIZZES
Two quizzes are included in the coursework are are based on tutorials. Each quiz may be taken twice. It is not considered cheating to review a tutorial again before taking the quiz again. It is a learning opportunity!
DISCUSSION BOARD FORUMS
Topics in seven forums cover understanding, analysis and application of basic research concepts. Some forums require a passing grade in order to move on to the next assignment, so students must plan ahead to complete coursework by the last day of the semester.
WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT (FINAL PROJECT)
A Research Log is completed on a form, which is provided. Students find a single database record or citation in a library database they feel is relevant to his/her research question and defend their selection based on the limited amount of data in the database record. The log allows the instructor to provide suggestions to improve research strategies.
Extra credit includes an introductory survey and course evaluation; up to two points may be earned for each activity.
Discussion board/participation
| Discussion Board | 7 forums worth 5-10 points each | 50 |
| Quizzes | 2 quizzes worth 20 points each | 40 |
| Log | 1 log worth 40 points | 40 |
| Total Points | 130 | |
All assignments are due by the last day of class. Early assignments help with basic theory for doing research, which is necessary to understand the more practical research assignments that come later in the course. It is highly recommended students set personal schedules to stay on track. Contact the instructor for help prioritizing the order of completing assignments close to the end of the semester.
Other requirements: You are required to monitor Blackboard and WSU student e-mail account regularly for announcements, course material, and returned/graded assignments. As stated above, be sure to save your logs on portable memory (i.e. flash drive) or a personal computer.
No textbook is required for this class. Readings are provided by the instructor from chapters out of some of the great titles listed on this page. Readings change each semester. Assigned chapters are available as PDF in Blackboard.
The College Student's Research Companion by 
