Full course description
Course summary:
In this age of information overload, it can be hard to know where to find good information that you can trust. If you're doing research for an important project, report, or proposal, how do you find information that you can count on?
This course will teach you how to research any topic using a number of different tools. We will start with basic techniques, such as reading, memory recall, note-taking, and planning. We will also talk about creating different kinds of outlines for different stages of your project, and how to move from the outline to actual writing, editing, and polishing. Most importantly, we will talk about how to use all kinds of sources, including a library's Dewey Decimal System, journals, and the Internet.
After you complete this course, you'll be ready to find reliable information on any topic, and turn that information into a compelling, accurate piece of writing.
Course objectives:
After completing this course, learners should be able to:
- Identify the benefits of proper research and documentation.
- Read for maximum information retention and recall, and take effective notes.
- Plan a research strategy using various types of research sources and outlines.
- Identify how to use style guides and be able to identify the most common styles.
- Document and attribute your work to ensure you avoid plagiarism.
Course topics include:
- Importance of Research Skills
- Basic Skills
- Planning Your Research Strategy
- Finding Information
- Getting Ready to Write
- Putting Pen to Paper
Elements of the course:
- Informational text
- Interactive practice activities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Final assessment
This course is self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the course as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing all course content and activities, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the quiz, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Recommended background
No additional background knowledge or skills are required for this course.
Course creators:
This course was designed and developed by the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University, using content from Velsoft.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.