MODULES

The content for this course is organized in modules. We have four types of modules: information, skill, attribute, and FAQ ("frequently asked questions"). Each module includes one or more of the following elements: list of specific learning outcomes, motivation for the module topic, information about the topic in text, slides, and/or video, description of an activity, link to a related assignment, a set of questions for students to test their knowledge, a list of links to additional resources on the topic.

INFORMATION MODULES

Information modules describe things that most seasoned CSE researchers know about but are not in any text book.

What is research? (W1)
The research process, ecosystem, stakeholders, and incentives (W2)
CSE sub-fields: goals, methods, patterns, contributions, and culture (W2)
What is an academic paper? What is peer-review? (W3)
Research career paths (W4)
Undergraduate research opportunities (W4)
Different forms of research communication (W5)
Literature reviews

SKILL MODULES

Skill modules give a tutorial about general skills that can be useful when you get involved in research.

ATTRIBUTE MODULES

Attribute modules motivate the importance of certain attributes, mindsets, and habits that can help students succeed in research, and discuss how to develop them.

Independence, resourcefulness, self-motivation (W2)
Good communication (W4)
Curiosity, inquisitiveness, critical thinking (W5)
Commitment, resilience, perseverance
Creativity
Drive, hard-work
Strong work ethics, reliability

FAQ MODULES

FAQ modules try to answer common questions about topics that would otherwise not fit into other modules.

Why should I do undergrad research? (W1)
How do I choose a research subfield? (W2)
How can I get started in research in the Allen School? (W4)
How is doing research different from taking classes?
How should I contact a professor?
How do I decide between different research topics?
How do I choose a good research project?
How can I impress my research supervisor?
How should I prepare for a research meeting?
What technical skills are most useful for research?
Do I need to be an extrovert to be successful in research?

Also see a comprehensive FAQ in the SPARC (Student Pathways into Research in Computing) webpage.

Submit your questions here

Acknowledgement: The course materials are inspired by similar courses designed for undergraduate researchers or beginning graduate researchers at various institutions--UCSD, UT Austin, Northeastern, UW Allen School, Georgia Tech (links TBA).