What is an Independent Study Project?
Independent Study is an individualized learning experience that allows students to select a topic of interest, use the research process that is taught and modeled in the classroom, and create a product to showcase their learning. Students are then given the opportunity to present their learning to their classmates.Independent Study is supported in the classroom as teachers instruct students on the skills required to locate and organize information. The expectations increase through the grades as students’ skills improve. Independent Study is an effective outlet for students to share their passions and interests with their peers.
An independent study project provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to participate in scientific research in a faculty laboratory. Such projects give students an opportunity to gain valuable “graduate level” experience; thus, undergraduates who plan to pursue graduate school are encouraged to participate in independent study. Students registering for a 3-hour independent study project can expect to spend about 8-12 hours per week in the laboratory. At the end of the semester, you will submit a 7-12 page paper (including original data, background, materials and methods, results, discussion and references).
