Undergraduate Research Explorer
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Glossary of Terms

A research abstract is a concise summary of a research paper or article. It provides a brief overview of the study’s key elements, including the research question, objectives, methodology and findings. Research abstracts are typically used in academic publications, conference proceedings and databases.

A large document, usually found online, that tells you everything you need to know about program requirements leading to graduation and lists every single course offered in a Faculty or division. Pore over it, along with your division’s Registration Guide, to plan your future courses, explore electives and generally get excited about the school year ahead! Review the academic calendar for your division here.

You will have the opportunity to work closely with a faculty supervisor on their research as you learn about new research directions and methodologies. You will take part in hands-on research as you build a collaborative and collegial relationship with a faculty member.

You will have the opportunity to work closely on research in partnership with communities, industries and / or organizations. The research project and methodology are driven by partner priorities.

Refers to a process in which scholarly or academic works, such as journal articles and manuscripts, are evaluated and scrutinized by experts in the same field before being published. The goal of peer review is to ensure the quality, validity and credibility of the work being submitted for publication.

A Plan of Study is a statement that outlines the research goals, objectives, methodologies and timelines for a specific research project or study. It’s often requested as part of an application to funding agencies. 

Also known as poster sessions, are common components of research conferences, symposia and other research-related events. These forums provide a platform for researchers to present their research findings in a visual and interactive format using posters. Poster forums facilitate one-on-one or small-group discussions between presenters and attendees. This environment promotes networking, knowledge exchange and the opportunity for researchers to receive feedback and insights from peers.

A Program of Study or subject POSt – is a grouping of courses in a particular subject area, identified as either a Specialist program, a Major program, a Minor program or a Certificate program.

The approaches or frameworks that researchers use to conduct their studies and gather information in a structured and rigorous manner.

You will take the lead in identifying your research questions and your approach to studying your topic with the guidance and support of a faculty supervisor established in the field. 

An organized event or conference where researchers come together to present, discuss and share their research findings and insights with attendees. Research symposia serve as platforms for the exchange of knowledge, ideas and expertise in various academic and professional fields. These events can take various forms, but typically include presentations, discussions and sometimes poster sessions related to a specific theme, topic or discipline.