· Creating Your Personal Research Plan

In this final assignment, you will reflect on your learning and design your own personal research plan. This is something for you to consider to better understand your research goals and your learning in this course as well!

So why all the fuss about the different research methods? Because you will most likely be reading and interpreting the results of many research reports as a graduate student, and you might also venture into the world of research as a budding young researcher too!

So, if you want to get a clearer picture of the truth, and you also have an interest in doing research and possibly even participating in research studies, there are a few places you might consider exploring.

First, talk with your faculty and determine what types of research they have been involved with and what they are currently working on right now.

You might be surprised to find out that many of your faculty are actively researching different topics in the field of psychology, and one might be just what you are looking for, so start talking about this more – reach out by email, or attend their office hours and don’t be shy about it!

In addition, you might be considering research for an independent study or for your capstone project, or as part of an internship; so start to think about this more and where you see yourself in terms of the research you are doing now, and what you would like to be doing eventually. Are you considering a career in research?

If you are considering an internship or a research opportunity in psychology, please consider reviewing the information within the APA website and think about joining the APA for graduate students and subscribing to GradPsych and other similar publications so you are more aware of available opportunities relevant to your interests.

Along the same lines, the National Institute of Health is another great place to explore – so poke around and see what you can find in terms of research opportunities.

You might also want to volunteer to conduct research within your local community to gain some experience as a researcher. To pursue this, consider contacting your local chamber of commerce and ask if they have a listing of opportunities or if they have any organizations that might fit your needs, and then follow up.

Additionally, you might also want to explore a part-time paid position to get a sense of what it is like and the types of duties you would have if you are to pursue a career as a researcher.

Check out the regional opportunities in your area, and be sure to tell everyone you know that you have an interest here. Speak with your professors, academic advisors, classmates, and anyone else you might encounter along the way. You never know where it might lead you!