IDEA FOR STUDENTS
We are excited you're interested in learning more about research in social science. Here you'll find resources created to help address some of the questions about how research works and how you can get started on a project.
Getting Started
Maybe you’ve heard a faculty member or teaching assistant talk about some of their research findings, or perhaps you’re already thinking about attending graduate school. The resources linked here are for you – they are to help you explore how research works and what it can look like at your university.
What is IDEA?
The Benefits
With the resources in this toolkit, you can get a taste of how research works and consider how to apply the research mindset to your future career – whether you are hired for an industry job, or decide to pursue graduate school.
Finding Research Opportunities
Maybe you want to pursue a research project, but you’re not quite sure where to start. Check out the resources here for tips on how to approach a faculty member about helping you with a project.
Toolkit Resources
Check out the modules to learn common terms, approaches, and methodologies for social science research. We recommend completing the modules in the order they are listed, but feel free to revisit each module as needed.
Defining Research and Industry Stakeholder Perspectives of Undergraduate Research
The Research Process
Determining the Research Need Through a Literature Review
Refining the Problem and Writing the Problem Statement
Scales of Measure and Designing a Study
Purpose and Objectives; Population and Samples
Quantitative Methodology Overview
Qualitative Methodology Overview
IRB and the Research Proposal
Frequently Asked Questions
Undergraduate research is an opportunity for students to gain research experience alongside a faculty member. Students can learn more about areas that interest them using research methods, analysis, and reporting.
No! In fact, undergraduate research experiences can be designed specifically for faculty to mentor you throughout the process.
No. While the IDEA program is tailored to social sciences within the agricultural industry, students from all majors can benefit from learning research methods.