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USTU 003: Introduction to the Research University (TJohnson)

Summer 2025

Welcome!

Welcome to the USTU 003 course research guide! This guide is based on the guide to Tammy Johnson's Fall 2024 Spark 10 course. 

Learning Outcomes for the Library Introduction Session:

  • Define your research interest and describe how it relates to you personally
  • Classify your topic of interest according to a discipline or field (may be interdisciplinary too)
    • Identify at least one appropriate specialized (subject-specific) database related to their topic (discipline/area) of interest
    • Recognize that the LC Classification system for the Library’s print resources is organized by disciplines (self-guided tour)
  • Locate helpful citation style resources through the library (style guides, online research guides)
    • Describe what a citation manager does and why one might use this type of tool
    • Recognize academic practices that support academic integrity and do not lead to plagiarism
  • Locate where to get help from a research librarian on the library website
  • [Optional] Locate library resources on the research process, including how to read scholarly articles and write literature reviews (see Getting Started with Library Research Guide)

Research is a Process (Infographic)

Research is an iterative process. Instead of straightforward and linear, it is repetitive and cyclical. As you move through the steps to learn, you should modify and revise your strategies. Don't be afraid to return to an earlier step to reset your process!Research is a Process infographic; follow the long description link for a web accessible version

Long description of "Research is a Process" for web accessibility

Check out our Research Guides

 

Do you want a list of recommended resources for your major or discipline?