Students as Researchers (StAR)
Description
StAR will offer research and development opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students within the research groups at the University of Stirling, giving them the chance to become active stake holders in the research community.
It will help students further their training in their chosen field and allow them to explore career options in research. The scheme will share with students the intensity, excitement, sense of discipline and satisfaction that careers in research can teach those who pursue them.Equipping them with highly transferable skills valued in many academic roles as well as in the wider workplace.
Students will be matched with participating research projects and the associated academic staff will act as mentors throughout the project’s period, guiding students whilst also giving opportunities for self-development. They will take part in a short secondment to a ‘live’ research project or conduct scoping exercises identifying sources of funding, grants and further research opportunities for professional areas and departments at the University.
Hours a week
The amount of hours a student would be expected to commit to their projects willbe outlined by them when they submit their applications, the projects will be flexible and the student and supervisor would agree on and arrangesessionsaround the student’s other academic commitments.
Administration
Staff of academic faculties will fill out the project description form and return it to the Students’ Union where it will then be publicised to targeted groups (such as student societies) and through all other external channels. Students will then register their interest with the scheme by filling out the online form and ‘applying’ to participate in a particular project.
Once applications had been received the Students’ Union would send the school the appropriate forms and the school would then take the placement on.
Time Scale
Hours per week and length of projects would be determined by the amount of time the student is willing to commit to the project and the length of the project itself.
What is expected from students taking part:
- Students will turn up for the agreed hours per week as agreed between themselves and their supervisor.
- Students will act in a professional manner (e.g courteous, punctual, helpful, and respectful of office/lab policy).
- Students will provide regular feedback to the Union through their log book which will be provided when their project is confirmed.
- Students will present a poster on their project and its findings.
What is expected from the placement supervisor:
- The supervisor will give the student a SMART project that enables the student to fulfil the aims of the project.
- The supervisor will encourage and guide the student to behave ina professional manner and ensure they know the office and/or lab protocol.
- The supervisor will let their students know if they are unable to attend one of the arranged sessions and arrange alternative supervision for them.
How Stirling University Students’ Union can support students:
The Students Union seeks to tailor its support for every project. For most project this comprises promoting opportunities, selecting suitable applicants and assisting with any issues which crop up. We are always open to explore how best to serve your particular project.
Benefits for Students:
Develop and Apply research methodology
- How a research project is carried out
- Project planning
- Qualitative and/or quantitative research modules
- Ethical issues in research
- Data analysis
Engage in a small-scale research project in a University setting
- Data collection and analysis
- Writing up findings
Evaluate the process and outcomes of the research activity
- Project evaluation and reporting
- Appropriate presentation of findings.