What is it?
Students undertake a substantial course-based research project that includes some of the following characteristics: student-generated or selected research questions, methodologies, conceptual frameworks and project management plans; analysis and synthesis of collected information or data, and; demonstrate an understanding of research results in the context of the broader disciplinary literature (e.g., 499s).
Important Considerations
Eligibility
- Independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive) have specific eligibility criteria depending on the program of study to which they are connected (e.g., students will often be required to be identified as a major or specialist in a program of study in order to participate). Consult the academic calendar to understand course requirements.
- Students often need to find a faculty member willing to supervise and evaluate their research project as well as approval from the academic unit for their proposed research project.
- In some instances, students will be required to complete an application form. Consult the academic calendar or the website of the academic unit to learn more.
Duration
Independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive) may involve part-time or full-time hours and can last from a few hours to a number of days or weeks over the course of an academic term. The timelines vary and will be set within the specific course.
Recognition and / or Compensation
Independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive) are unpaid opportunities, students receive academic credit as part of a course.
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Access
Inclusion in research experiences is achieved when an experience supports learning for all students. Learn about the University of Toronto’s commitment to an equitable learning environment and accessible learning environment as well as available resources and supports.
Additional Information
- Students engaging in an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive) receive workplace insurance coverage through the University or Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
- Students engaging in an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive) have general liability coverage through the University.
Tags: Curricular, Student-led Research, Unpaid
Benefits
- Students have the opportunity to integrate their theoretical learning through practical application.
- In an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive), students take ownership of the project from the conception of research questions to determining research methodologies to the communication of research outcomes. This often allows students to pursue research topics that align with their intellectual curiosities and goals.
- Students receive supervised guidance over an extended period of time, leading to deeper learning and skill development.
- Independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive) help students in their decision to pursue graduate studies as they become more familiarized with an academic environment in which they might be expected to lead a research project. This experience is one of many opportunities to strengthen student applications to graduate programs.
Ideal time to participate:
- This depends on students’ capacity, academic program and personal and professional goals. Students may want to discuss their course selection with their academic unit or registrar’s office.
- Students typically engage in an independent / supervised study course in their 3rd or 4th year of study.
How to access / locate opportunities:
- To learn more about the requirements for independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive), students should review the applicable divisional academic calendar or connect with their academic unit or registrar’s office.
- To learn more about independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive),within your division, students can also refer to the Undergraduate Research Explorer.
- Students will need to plan well in advance if they want to pursue an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive), to define their topic and methodological approach, to secure a faculty supervisor and, if applicable, to submit an application.
- Along with independent / supervised study courses (research-intensive), other courses and programs of study that incorporate student-led research experiences exist across the University. Learn more through the Undergraduate Research Explorer.
- If a faculty member is approached by a student to supervise an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive), review processes and requirements defined by the applicable academic unit. In addition, consider the effort and consideration involved in supervising an independent study course.
- If a faculty member is interested in supporting an independent / supervised study course (research-intensive), consider connecting with their academic unit, divisional teaching and learning / experiential learning offices or relevant institutional offices to explore the resources, structures and programs available.
- Faculty, staff and librarians should consider ways to embed equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenous perspectives throughout students’ research experiences.
