Undergraduate Research Award: Criteria

Submissions will be judged based on how well they demonstrate the following:

• Sophistication, originality and/or unusual depth or breadth in the use of library collections, including, but not limited to, printed resources, databases, primary resources, and materials in all media;
• Exceptional ability to locate, select, evaluate, and synthesize library resources and to use them in the creation of a project that shows originality and/or has the potential to lead to original research in the future; and
• Evidence of significant personal learning and the development of a habit of research and inquiry that shows the likelihood of persisting in the future.

An evaluation panel comprised of Emory University faculty, librarians and other educators will focus primarily on the evidence of the applicant's research strategy, process, and personal learning, as summarized in the research essay. Expectations for achievement will be commensurate with the applicant's class year and the requirements of the discipline.

• Primary focus of judging should be the research essay and bibliography as evidence of the research process.
• The project itself provides evidence of the appropriateness and synthesis of the research.
• The letter of support should be used to learn about the initiative and independence shown by the student and to give an indication of the originality of the research and where it falls within its discipline.

An excellent submission should:

• Demonstrate use of complex research tools such as primary resources, data sets, archival finding aids and specialized databases
• Utilize a variety of types of information sources
• Make use of Emory’s collections and services to their fullest
• Show originality of thought and the potential to lead to original research in the future.
• Show evidence of significant personal learning and the development of research and inquiry skills
• Show careful evaluation of quality of information sources
• Include correct and complete citation of materials, with annotations if appropriate

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