UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH – HOW TO GET STARTED?

Research is doing. But direction and feedback must steer undergraduate research for it to be productive and enjoyable. Undergraduates in the Geology program at Western Kentucky University (WKU) may pursue B.A. or B.S. degrees, but research is intentionally encouraged in all tracks. Courses in Field Techniques and Analytical Techniques are offered early in the course sequencing and train students in field sampling, mapping, note-taking, PLM, XRD, XRF, and developing Standard Operating Procedures for consistency. Subsequent courses require these skills as students develop their own data sets (geochemical, sediment properties, mineralogical, etc.) by collecting and analyzing their own samples. Students also learn to write grant proposals, and many submit these for internal funding opportunities. By introducing aspects of research within the structure of early courses, research is de-mystified and students see “research” as actively answering questions.

Further analytical training comes in upper-level courses such as Advanced Analytical Techniques, Optical Microscopy, and Electron Microscopy. More advanced field training comes through Sequence Stratigraphy, Basin Analysis, and focused field courses (Bahamas, Mojave Desert). Students may take 1-3 credit hour courses in Independent Research (GEOL 399) or in Teaching Practicum (GEOL 475) as their research or professional interests progress. The department offers financial support, particularly in terms of travel to present research at conferences. WKU also offers opportunities for students to pursue internal funding; Faculty-Undergraduate Student Engagement grants offer up to $4600 for research- and travel-related costs. The WKU Student Research Council, Honors College, and most departments also offer competitive research grants. The WKU Student Research Conference is an annual campus-wide forum for presenting research. Each presentation is judged by faculty, who offer detailed comments to students to direct their focus.

Students learn early that research involves formulating questions, learning appropriate techniques of analysis in the field and lab, seeking funding to pay for data acquisition, and effectively communicating results to different audiences. They receive feedback at each stage, and realize that - research is doing!