Independent Study
Independent Study in Cognitive Science (COG SCI 399)
COG SCI 399-0 provides course credit to students who choose to do mentored independent research in Cognitive Science. Content varies widely, reflecting the variety of questions asked and methods used in cognitive science research. However, all COG SCI 399 experiences should provide substantial training in and exposure to research. Students should become familiar with research questions being addressed in a particular area, the methods used to address it, and relevant findings. In many cases, students will be involved in specific research studies in departments/programs related to cognitive science.
Key characteristics of COG SCI 399:
- Prerequisites. There are no general course prerequisites for COG SCI 399. However, individual faculty members supervising students' research may require the prior completion of certain courses and may specify the grades that must be attained.
- Class standing. Most students who take COG SCI 399 are juniors or seniors who have a declared major or minor in Cognitive Science. COG SCI 399 is also open to sophomores who (1) have taken at least three courses toward their Cognitive Science major and (2) have a grade point average of at least 3.4 in their Cognitive Science major courses. Exceptions require approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS).
- Papers are often required. The content of the paper should be determined by the supervising faculty member. In many cases, the paper will take the form of a brief research report, in which the student introduces and reports the results of his or her research. Another possible format is a research proposal, in which the student introduces a topic and proposes a study. In other cases, the paper may be a written summary of the experiences that constituted the Independent Study. The content of the paper should be a key factor in determining the student's grade.
- Abstracts are required. Students must prepare an abstract describing their work (250 words) and provide an electronic copy of the abstract in Word or PDF format to the Director of Undergraduate Studies at the end of each quarter.
To apply to participate in COG SCI 399, please fill out this form, and share with your supervising faculty member. They can work with you to determine a basis for grading. Once you have obtained their signature, please send the form to the Director of Undergraduate Studies. You can submit your form as soon as registration for the relevant quarter begins. Forms must be received no later than one week before the start of the quarter (and preferably sooner).