Deciphering answers to unknown phenomena, filling in knowledge gaps, and enhancing the ways people can operate in their daily lives are some of the many ways research fosters a more advanced society. While research is often perceived as a practice limited to scientific discoveries, there is a plethora of research topics available for students to tackle in varying majors, be it they have the proper tools and background to contribute to the auspicious research pool. Luckily, for those interested in performing research studies but unaware of the route to success, Dr. Angelique Louie, Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at UC Davis, will offer a new course through UC Online called BIM 088V: Introduction to Research Asynchronous for the duration of the winter quarter. 

From breaking down what it means for methodologies to be considered “research” to uncovering preferred research types and conducting independent projects, this 10-week course provides opportunities to apply class material to real-world exercises. While the course is completely asynchronous, don’t be discouraged by the semi-self-paced structure. In fact, embedded in the syllabus is a detailed outline of the course schedule, equipped with due dates for assessments meant to maintain a digestible amount of material throughout the quarter. Furthermore, for those with questions or needing further guidance, Dr. Louie emphasizes her availability during appointment-based office hours and prides her course on configuring teacher’s assistants ready to mentor and offer constructive advice on assignments. 

Grading is weighted and consists of online activities (60 percent of final grade) and homework assignments (40 percent of final grade). The final exam is a part of the online activities portion of each student’s weighted grade percentages, which will be taken finals week on an online platform with no exceptions for late work. Each week, Dr. Louie will touch on a specific aspect of research, ranging from “Interpreting the Myers-Briggs” personality test to “How to narrow a topic of interest” to research on. Depending on the week and topic, students will be required to watch a homework video followed by a series of supplemental questions pertaining to the material. While Dr. Louie admits the material can be dense for those lacking research experience, she notes that the tedious nature of the research lifestyle is emulated through her course so she can assist students through their apprehensions in a controlled place. By the end of the course, Dr. Louie hopes enough critical thinking and problem solving are practiced throughout their time so that any future obstacle can be tackled without a hitch or significant setback. 

Introduction to Research is a one-of-a-kind course that offers an expanded understanding of the mechanisms and skills necessary to undertake the enormous burden of providing insight on understudied topics. While most generic UC campus units are compatible with the course, with the exception of several campuses requiring their transfer enlist under general education, the class does require students to have access to asynchronous learning materials, including a technological device for lessons and assignments. For those interested in taking the course winter quarter, visit UC Online to enroll.