The AIR Program Research Project is a work project that we use as a guide to help teach proper research techniques at the university level. It is very common that beginning freshmen (entry level college students) often become frustrated in developing and writing required research projects. Most often this develops from entering the university library where there exists hundred of thousands of books and media to choose from. Finding one book that may fit within the research project becomes “a needle in a haystack.” That is why the AIR Program has developed a Research Project workshop that takes place throughout the majority of the AIR Program semester to help students with their reaserch skills and to become familiar with research at the university level.

Our goal is to:

Have the student participant first become acclimated to the university campus library. By doing this we hope to have the student become confident when researching various projects.

To teach the student some possible avenues that will reduce the time on their research. This includes using shortcuts that our mentors utilize already.

To become familiar in using librarians as a resource. Sometimes students are afraid to ask questions, therefore, we encourage the students to meet the Librarians and ask how they may help in our research project.

To utilize all resources the library has to offer. Including periodicals, Internet, journals, microfiche, and other materials.

Finally, to give presentations on their research project. This is a major focus to encourage public speaking.