Steps for Creating your Research Project
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- Understand the Scientific Method:
The scientific method is a flexible yet rigorous exploration process. Review its steps and redundancies.
- Start with a Question:
Choose a question of personal interest to make your project more meaningful.
- Conduct Background Research:
Use available tools to gather knowledge (library, professors, etc.) to gather knowledge. You need at least three peer-reviewed references for your midterm draft paper.
- Construct a Hypothesis:
Formulate a testable statement backed by your research. For example, hypothesize whether sleep affects heart rate.
- Design Experiments:
Plan experiments to disprove your hypothesis, ensuring to control biases and include a control group. Consider time and equipment constraints.
- Record and Analyze Data:
Organize your data coherently and choose appropriate statistical methods. Ensure equipment calibration to avoid artifacts.
- Draw Conclusions and Communicate:
Summarize your findings objectively, regardless of whether your hypothesis is correct. Prepare to present your findings for peer review.
Project Guidelines
- Group Size:
Groups should consist of 2-5 members. If group size falls below two, members can join other groups with approval by the last day to drop classes.
- Project Scope:
Focus on understanding human physiology. Small sample size (n=2-5) are acceptable.
- Statistical Analysis:
Your data must be statistically analyzed, not just presented as raw graphs. Include statistical methods in your midterm draft. Refer to the POPS Project Statistical Help document for guidance.
- Lab Time Management:
Efficient use of lab time (15-30 minutes weekly) is crucial. Communicate regularly with your group and seek instructor guidance.
Written Assignment Submissions
- Midterm Assignments:
- Project Plan & Schedule: Due to week before the Plan Presentation (10 points).
- Midterm Draft: Follow scientific writing format, minimum 3 pages. Due the week of “Midterm Draft Due”.
- Final Draft:
Submit the final written draft of your POPS project paper by the due date (30 points).
Resources
- Writing Tutors:
Free writing tutors are available at SLCC. Utilize them for both midterm and final drafts.
- STEM Tutors:
Free science and math tutors can assist with understanding physiology and statistical analysis. Check the STEM tutoring schedule.
- Group Review:
Each member should review the entire document for grammar, punctuation, scientific writing, and readability.