SMSU URC Library Research Award
In conjunction with the University’s Undergraduate Research Conference, the SMSU Library sponsors a Library Research Award. The winner of the award demonstrates high quality use of library resources, articulates their research experience, and conducts a quality presentation. Winners earn an award of $350 on their student account. Please note if you are part of a group research project, the group must work collaboratively on the following as all members of the group will split the award.
If you would like to be included in the judging for these awards, you must submit the following:
- Your abstract.
- A bibliography of all works cited and all works consulted.
- A 300-500 word reflection essay describing your research process and addressing the questions listed below.
Essay Requirements
The reflection essay must describe your research process and address the following six questions.
- What library search tools/databases did you use and why?
- What search terms were effective for finding research to support your project?
- What did you learn about finding information on your topic or in your discipline? Was it necessary to move outside your discipline to find sufficient sources?
- Did you consult with a librarian and/or your faculty supervisor during the research process? If so, how did that benefit you? If not, why not?
- What did you learn about your own research process and style?
- What would you change about your process if you were starting your research today?
Selection Criteria
Submissions will be judged on how well they demonstrate the following:
- Completion of submission requirements (abstract, bibliography, reflection)
- Sophistication, originality, and/or depth or breadth in the use of research resources (e.g., printed resources, databases, primary sources, media sources, etc.)
- Evidence of their research process and personal learning as described in the reflective essay
- Reviewers reserve the right to ask follow-up questions or address concerns regarding the reflective essay
- Overall presentation
- Rubric used for evaluating presentations
Submission Details
- Due Date: Submit by November 13, 2024 at 11:59pm (No later)
- Submission Instructions: Submit materials for this award along with your abstract on the Abstract Submission Form.
Based on the Charlene Conrad Liebau Library Prize for Undergraduate Research award process at UC Berkeley
For more information regarding the SMSU URC Library Research Award, contact:
Pam Gladis
Professor of Library
McFarland Library, BA512
Ph: (507) 537-6813
Email: pam.gladis@smsu.edu
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