Being a researcher (in Information Science and Technology) from Coursera

The course provides a broad view of how to become and progress as a researcher. It spans over a wide range of topics, from the historical development of scientific thought to research methodology, to the pragmatics of publication, research funding, evaluation, and promotion in a researcher’s career. It also stresses the ethical aspects of research. Although the course speaks about scientific research in general, it especially focuses on the field on Information and Communication Science and Technology.

The course is mainly directed to students engaging in research and beginning researchers. It may also be of interest for senior researcher in their role as supervisors or mentors, and to all those who are interested in how scientific research works. The main topics addressed in the course are:

- Research, its historical development, and its role in society;

- Research methodology;

- The products of research: publications and artifacts;

- The professional researcher: roles and career progress;

- Research evaluation, from peer review to bibliometrics;

- Research ethics.

What's inside

Syllabus

WEEK 1 - Research and its context

Week 1 has an introductory and motivational purpose. It faces the following questions: What is science? What is scientific research? What is the relation between scientific progress and the progress of society? What is the relation between research and innovation? Why should researchers engage themselves publicly?

WEEK 2 - Research Methodology

Week 2 focuses on research methods. It discusses the interplay between invention — the creative act that identifies an interesting open problem and a possible solution — and validation — the meticulous process through which the identified solution is critically evaluated. It briefly discusses the historical evolution of the notion of a “scientific method”, through which research results are validated, mainly developed in the context of physical and natural sciences. Then it broadens the analysis to other kinds of research, and in particular ICST research.

WEEK 3 - The products of research: publications and beyond

The results of research (its products) are used to develop further research and lead to industrial innovations and societal changes. Week 3 focuses on the diffusion process of research products. The main way of diffusing research results is through scientific publications. The traditional publication process is analysed and recent trends towards open access are also discussed. Other kinds of research products, which take the form of artifacts, like data sets or research prototypes, are also discussed.

WEEK 4 - The researcher's progress

Week 4 focuses on the researcher’s career progress in his/her professional life, from being a researcher-in-formation to becoming a junior independent researcher to maturing into an established research leader. In particular, it discusses the skills one needs to acquire and provides tips of advice on how to progress successfully.

WEEK 5 - Evaluating research

Week 5 focuses on evaluation in research. Evaluation is key to research, as for any intrinsically competitive human endeavor. Researchers are evaluated for hiring, funding, and promotion. Research units (groups, departments) are also evaluated for funding. Even global institutions (like universities) are evaluated and ranked internationally. Traditionally, evaluation is performed via peer review. Increasingly, other forms of evaluation based on quantitative indicators — such as bibliometric indicators — have been emerging and are increasingly used. Quantitative indicators are discussed and critically analyzed.

WEEK 6 - Research ethics

Week 6 focuses on the ethical issues involved in doing research. It defines the notions of ethics and misconduct. It discusses misconduct in proposing, performing, reviewing research or reporting research, focusing in particular on plagiarism, breach of confidentiality, conflict of interest. Possible ethical aspects involved in the specific research are also discussed. Research can involve or affects humans, other organisms, or the environment. This is traditionally well understood, e.g. in life sciences. Increasingly research in all areas of technology is getting closer to humans and touches ethical sensitive issues.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces foundational concepts of scientific research and inquiry

Taught by Carlo Ghezzi, a leading figure in computer science and engineering

Provides a survey of research methodology and best practices across a range of disciplines

Covers the publication and dissemination of research findings, including open access trends

Addresses the roles, career paths, and professional development of researchers

Offers insights into research evaluation, peer review, and bibliometric indicators

Reviews summary

Well-received research course

learners say this well-received course is an excellent introduction to being a researcher. Helpful and engaging, learners found the knowledgeable instructor to be clear and easy to understand. This course is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding research basics, information science, or technology.

Course gives a good overview of research.

"A perfect course to get overall research process overview."

"Very helpful course especially for those newly introduced to the research world."

"This course is very helpful and clear to know how to be and the steps to publish a paper as a researcher, as well as research ethics."

Course is well-suited for beginners.

"Great course - very useful course for beginners in research!"

"This is one of the best course talking about what research means and all thing relater to research. Very clear!"

"Course found to very interesting and knowledgeable as new entrant."

Instructor was clear and knowledgeable.

"An excellent course which is very well delivered by an obviously excellent lecturer."

"Amazing teacher and great content and the tricky questions I really enhanced knowledge to great degree. Thank you Author/ Instructor."

"Excellent Course. I clearly understood what is the meaning of research, how do we have to carry out research. I thank the Instructor Carlo Ghezzi for his Excellent explanation."

Course material is useful and practical.

"This course provides broad concept and principles in research field specially in Scientific research.All the strategies of research methods are discussed in an extremely effective way."

"I got a fundamental review about research."

"This is a great course specially for the beginners stepping into the field of research. Each and every aspect related to the job and career of a researcher is explained in a very comprehensive way."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Being a researcher (in Information Science and Technology) with these activities:

Organize and Review Course Resources

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Taking the time to organize and review course materials will strengthen your understanding of the course content and prepare you for assessments.

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Gather and organize lecture notes, assignments, and readings.
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your knowledge.
Identify areas where you need further clarification.

Connect with Researchers in Your Field

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Establishing connections with researchers in your field can provide valuable guidance, support, and insights as you progress in your research journey.

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Identify potential mentors who align with your research interests.
Reach out to them via email or social media.
Request informational interviews or mentorship opportunities.

Explore Research Methodology Resources

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Review online tutorials and resources to strengthen your understanding of research methods, which are foundational to this course.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Identify reliable sources for research methodology tutorials.
Review introductory tutorials on research design, data collection, and analysis.
Explore specific tutorials relevant to your research interests in Information and Communication Science and Technology.

Seven other activities

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Review scientific reasoning

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Refresh the skill of scientific reasoning to strengthen problem solving and critical thinking

Browse courses on Scientific Reasoning

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Identify the research question or problem
Gather and analyze evidence
Draw conclusions and make inferences

Develop a Research Proposal Outline

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Creating an outline for a research proposal will help you define your research question, objectives, and methodology, providing a solid foundation for your research project.

Browse courses on Research Proposal

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Review the structure and components of a research proposal.
Start drafting an outline that includes the introduction, literature review, research question, methodology, expected outcomes, and references.
Seek feedback from mentors or peers to refine your outline.

Explore case studies of research misconduct

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Participate in a guided tutorial to understand and avoid research misconduct

Browse courses on Research Ethics

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Review different types of research misconduct
Analyze case studies of research misconduct
Identify strategies to prevent research misconduct

Practice Scientific Writing Techniques

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Regular practice in scientific writing will enhance your ability to effectively communicate your research findings, a critical skill emphasized in this course.

Browse courses on Scientific Writing

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Identify exercises or online platforms that provide practice in writing scientific abstracts, research proposals, and manuscripts.
Set aside dedicated time to practice writing different sections of research papers.
Seek feedback on your writing from peers, mentors, or writing centers.

Engage in Peer Review and Critique

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Exchanging feedback with peers can enhance your research by identifying areas for improvement and fostering critical thinking.

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Form a peer review group with fellow students.
Share your research ideas, drafts, or presentations with the group.
Provide constructive feedback and engage in discussions.

Write a research proposal

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Solidify understanding of research methodology by creating a research proposal

Browse courses on Research Methodology

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Identify a research topic and develop a research question
Review literature and develop a research plan
Write the research proposal

Attend Research Conferences and Seminars

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Participating in conferences and seminars allows you to connect with researchers, learn about cutting-edge research, and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

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Identify relevant conferences and seminars in your field.
Register and attend sessions that align with your research interests.
Actively engage in discussions and network with researchers.

Career center

Learners who complete Being a researcher (in Information Science and Technology) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Scientist

Develop and conduct scientific research projects in a variety of fields, including information science and technology. Analyze and interpret data, write research papers, and present findings at conferences. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including research methods, data analysis, and scientific writing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Data Scientist

Collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. Develop and implement data-driven solutions to business problems. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

Design, develop, and maintain software applications. Work with other engineers to create and implement new features. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including software development, design patterns, and agile methodologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Information Technology Manager

Plan, implement, and manage information technology systems for organizations. Work with other IT professionals to ensure that systems are running smoothly and efficiently. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including IT infrastructure, project management, and risk management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Information Security Analyst

Protect organizations from cyberattacks by identifying and mitigating risks. Develop and implement security policies and procedures. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including information security, risk assessment, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Product Manager

Develop and manage products for organizations. Work with other teams to bring products to market and ensure that they meet customer needs. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including product development, market research, and customer segmentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Business Analyst

Analyze business processes and identify areas for improvement. Develop and implement solutions to business problems. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including business analysis, process improvement, and data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Technical Writer

Write technical documentation for software, hardware, and other products. Work with engineers and other technical professionals to create clear and concise documentation. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including technical writing, documentation standards, and information design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Librarian

Organize and manage information resources for libraries and other organizations. Provide research assistance to patrons. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including information retrieval, library science, and research methods.

See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian

Archivist

Preserve and manage historical records and artifacts. Work with researchers and other professionals to make archival materials accessible. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including archival theory, preservation techniques, and research methods.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Museum curator

Develop and manage exhibitions for museums and other cultural institutions. Work with curatorial staff to acquire, conserve, and interpret artifacts. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including museum studies, curatorial practices, and research methods.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Journalist

Gather and report on news and current events. Write articles, produce videos, and create other content for print, broadcast, and online media. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including journalism ethics, research methods, and writing for different audiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Public Relations Specialist

Develop and implement public relations campaigns for organizations. Work with the media to promote positive publicity and manage negative press. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including public relations theory, media relations, and crisis communication.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist

Marketing Manager

Develop and implement marketing campaigns for products and services. Work with other marketing professionals to create and execute marketing strategies. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including marketing research, consumer behavior, and campaign management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Sales Manager

Lead and manage sales teams to achieve sales goals. Work with customers to identify their needs and develop sales strategies. A course on being a researcher can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role, including sales techniques, customer relationship management, and negotiation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager