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$500 Award for Undergraduate Research

IUPUI University Library Undergraduate Research Award

The University Library Research Award is given for the best undergraduate project that specifically relies on the synthesis of library resources and collections, and the utilization of library services. The award is designed to promote the highest standards in undergraduate research and is intended to encourage students to become independent library users, practice professional values, and produce robust research projects. The award acknowledges the contributions and collaborations of teaching faculty and library staff in attaining these goals and aspirations.

Award:
A monetary prize of $500 is awarded each academic year to the most outstanding undergraduate research project.  In the case of an outstanding team project, only one monetary prize is awarded.

Application: 
Eligibility is limited to undergraduate research projects completed within the academic year - Fall to Spring. Research projects must be completed at the time of submission.  Applicants are required to submit the following:

  • Completed research project.
  • Summary of research project (300 words maximum).
  • A two page, double spaced reflective essay detailing the process of choosing research topic and selecting library resources about the topic.
  • Course and department of faculty mentor.
  • Name of collaborating librarian(s) (Optional).
  • Contact information:  Permanent address and phone number. 
Evaluation Process:
The quality of the project and essay will be evaluated using a scoring rubric with the following criteria:
    Research Project:
  • Clearly stated research question.
  • Creativity of research topic.
  • Uniqueness of research topic.
  • Clear explanation of significance of research.
  • Writing clarity and organization of project.
  • Format reference sources using a citation manual, e.g. APA, MLA, Chicago or Turabian.
  • As applicable, evidence of the Principles of Undergraduate Learning.
    Essay:
  • Balance between quality and quantity of library resources uncovered about the topic, such as, books, reference material, and journal articles.
  • Evidence that the project has relied on the synthesis of a variety of library resources.
Award Committee:
The award committee members are: library liaisons for the Center for Research and Learning, and one faculty appointed by the director of the Center for Research and Learning.

Submission and Deadline:
Deadline is May 9, 2009. Participants must submit their projects to Mr. Sullivan, Administrative Assistant to the Dean of University Library at
jossulli@iupui.edu.

Last updated by elgonzal on 09/19/2008