In the Fall semester of 2009, I taught a first-year course that focused on skills required to successfully complete undergraduate research. This paper will discuss the Simpson College first-year course requirements, my course goals, the graph theory topics covered, student feedback, and instructor reflection.

The current study examines the trajectories of student perceived gains as a result of time spent in an undergraduate research experience (URE). Data for the study come from a survey administered at three points over a 1-yr period: before participation in the program, at the end of a Summer segment of research, and at the end of the year.…

Utilizes case studies of two southern Indiana local history projects to illustrate methods of conducting local history. The studies examined local voting patterns and researched the legends surrounding a local Civil War colonel. Includes suggestions for planning successful student research projects. (MJP)