Overview
The Computer Science Department is hosting a four part graduate research orientation for new and continuing graduate students in the department. This orientation will introduce students to the goals of research, the methodology and tools of doing research, and finding out how to make research have a high impact and be a worthwhile contribution to the community. The events will incorporate interactive components and discussion to help students learn how to apply the concepts as they begin their own research at WPI.
All of the events will occur in Fuller Laboratories 320 at 11am (except the first event). The following events dates are scheduled:
Overview of Research: August 26, 2015 at 3pm
Discussion Leader: Prof. Craig Shue
"What is research and why is it important?" This discussion will describe the key elements of research and the mindset researchers must have to perform experiments. We will discuss how to get started, the general process and strategies for pursuing research, and metrics for success. This event will include a panel discussion featuring current students.
Video and Slides: A video and audio capture of the presentation is available, as is a PDF copy of the slides used in the presentation.
Useful guides on graduate research:
- Richard W. Hamming, "You and Your Research," Bell Communications Research Colloquium Seminar, 1986.
- Ronald Azuma, "So long, and thanks for the Ph.D.!," University of North Carolina, 2014.
- Marie desJardins, "How to Succeed in Graduate School: A Guide for Students and Advisors," ACM Crossroads Student Magazine, 1994.
- Dianne Prost O'Leary, "Graduate Study in the Computer and Mathematical Sciences: A Survival Manual," University of Maryland, 2009.
- Mark Dredze, Hanna M. Wallach, "How to Be a Successful PhD Student (in Computer Science (in NLP/ML))," University of Massachusetts, 2012.
Other helpful materials:
- Randy Pausch, "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams," Carnegie Mellon Last Lecture Series, 2007.
- Randy Pausch, "Time Management," University of Virginia lecture, 2007.
- Jorge Cham, "PhD Comics."
Techniques for Creating New Knowledge: September 8, 2015
Discussion Leaders: Profs. Dan Dougherty and Craig Shue
This event will describe the details of the research process and the inherent tradeoffs of different evaluation strategies. Topics will include effective literature reviews, empirical strategies (simulation, measurement, constructing metrics), theoretical strategies (the role of proofs, algorithmic analysis), and the reporting of information (statistics, effective graphs/tables). The discussion will have an interactive component; students are encouraged to bring a laptop/tablet, if available.
Video and Slides: A video and audio capture of the event is available. Further, a PDF copy of the slides used in the presentation are available. The video audio is a bit quiet due to technical difficulties with the ATC.
Making an Impact: September 15, 2015
Discussion Leader: Prof. Neil Heffernan
"Theory, Practice, and Impact" is WPI's new slogan. This discussion will focus on having an impact, both in one's profession and in society as a whole. The discussion will address identifying a target audience, identifying their needs, and addressing those needs. Topics may include tool building, transitioning technology, and engaging participants.
Video and Notes: A video and audio capture of the event is available. Further, a PDF copy of discussion notes is available from the presentation.
Creativity and Communicating with the Community: September 29, 2015
Discussion Leader: Prof. David Brown
Researchers must embrace a "creativity mindset." The discussion will include identifying what constitutes a creativity mindset and strategies for designing solutions. The other part of the event will focus on publishing and presenting results for the community, including the peer-review process for conferences and journals.
Video and Notes: A video and audio capture of the event is available. Further, a PDF copy of the slides is available from the presentation.