Ensure a strong UR experience with a strong syllabus.
Best practice for mentors of undergraduate research includes clearly communicating about the experience. Consider including the following in your syllabus:
Browse through the samples below for components of your UR syllabus.
CURS
Contact Information
Include your office location, lab location (if applicable), email, phone number
Research Goals
What are the learning outcomes/research outcomes for your students? What skills will they be developing?
Student/Faculty Communication
What are your expectations for communication amongst your student(s)? How do you preferred to be contacted? What is the protocol for communicating in normal situations? Important situations? Emergency situations?
Important Dates
Are there important dates or events that need to be shared with your students? How does your course relate to the undergraduate academic calendar?
Student Expectations
What do you expect of your students? Be specific and collaborative.
Mentor Expectations
What should your students expect from you? Be specific.
Tentative Schedule
It is expected for undergraduate research students to spend 6-8 hours each week completed research tasks. This can include physical, direct mentorship from you or a designated member of your research team or independent time to complete various tasks. Develop a tentative schedule and ensure your students that it can change and how to expect updates to the schedule.
Required Trainings and Readings
What trainings are required by the university and by you to participate in this research experience? What documentation will you require? What readings and other materials need to be completed to be a successful participate in this research experience? How will your students gain access to these items?
