Course Description

In this course, students have the opportunity to complete a self-directed area of study or project on a topic of interest, with guidance and approval from a faculty mentor. Students will conduct independent research, apply and sharpen their critical thinking skills as well as produce original work.

 Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:    

• Define and pursue a topic of interest in collaboration with a faculty mentor.
• Demonstrate independent research and learning.
• Produce a final product (e.g., research paper, presentation, project, creative activity such as a play or collection of poems, or portfolio) that reflects academic or professional growth.

 Course Requirements 

• Texts will be determined collaboratively by the student and faculty mentor, based on the focus of the independent study.

 Technical Support

For help with technical issues, consult:

• University Information Technology Services (UITS) (human support)
• IU Knowledge Base (IUKB) (documentation for IU applications and services)
• Canvas Student Guide
• IUware (download free software)

 Course Assessment & Grades

Course Assessment:

Assignments will be determined collaboratively by the student and faculty mentor, based on the focus of the independent study. These may include but are not limited to reading lists, short writing assignments, journal entries, research proposals, literature reviews, written reports, annotated bibliographies, etc.

Final grades are based on:

• Continuous engagement and progress throughout the semester.
• Quality of submitted work.
• Completion of the final project.