Professional Development Online Modules
Science/Research Identity Activities
A series of writing and share out activities was designed to facilitate the development of science and research identity in undergraduate students that is coherent with other identities that are important to them. These writing and share out activities are part of the BUILD Fellows and Scholars Learning Community curriculum.
The Phase 1 (Pilot) Writing Prompt is designed specifically as a preparatory activity to writing a statement of purpose for graduate school applications. The Phase 2 Writing Prompt can be implemented as an initial writing activity that students would complete at the early stage of their research training program. The Phase 3 Writing Prompt (Follow-up to Final Prompt) should be implemented as a repeated writing activity after students complete the Phase 2 Writing Prompt, ideally 6-12 months apart. Lastly, the Discussion Plan (GM Guide) can be used to provide a structured share-out activity shortly after completing a writing prompt.
- Writing Prompt Phase 1 (Pilot)
Brainstorming Exercise - Writing Prompt Phase 2 Science Identity Writing Assignment: “Reflections on Your Identities”
- Writing Prompt Phase 3 Follow up to Phase 2 Prompt Identity Writing Assignment “Reflections on Your Identities”
- Discussion Plan (GM Guide) Researcher/Scientist Identity Discussion Plan: Instructions for Graduate Mentors
Research Skills Training Modules
These online modules were developed by CSULB BUILD Mentors to introduce different research and/or lab skills. These video modules are accompanied by a user guide and some also provide sample practice data. Please refer to your campus resources for specific software/hardware that may be required for the topic. For more information on these or other BUILD products and how to access them, please contact BUILD.Products@csulb.edu.
Dr. Niloofar Bavarian, Department of Health Science, College of Health and Human Services
Learning Objectives
Stata is a statistical software program commonly used in research. The module is developed based on the book by Dr. Alan Acock, “A Gentle Introduction to Stata”. Upon completion of the module, the learner will be able to:
- Prepare data for analysis in Stata
- Perform basic statistical analysis in Stata
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Module Video Instruction
Dr. Deborah Fraser, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Introduction to Sterile Cell Culture (Module 1)
Learning Objectives
- Describe differences between primary cells and cell lines, adherent and suspension cells
- Calculate how to passage cells
- Identify good and bad sterile cell culture technique
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Module Video Instruction
Introduction to Flow Cytometry (Module 2)
Learning Objectives
- Describe what flow cytometry is
- Understand the possibilities and limitations of flow cytometry
- Plan a flow cytometry experiment including selection of appropriate antibodies, fluorophores, and controls
- Set up the CSULB Sony SH800 Cell sorter, or the MUSE Cell analyzer to run experiments
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Module Video Instruction
Student Training Online Modules
These modules prepare students toward graduate school application and research careers. All of the modules are being used by BUILD Scholars and Fellows Programs, and are available to participants of the new pilot Research Certificate Program offered by the Office of Undergraduate Research Services (OURS) Connects in Spring 2021. See additional specifics about BUILD Student Training on the Student Training Overview page.
Graduate School Application Process (~ 40 min.)
This module consists of videos that introduces students to the graduate application process, explains what it means to go for a Ph.D., discusses important factors to consider when applying for graduate programs, provides tips for selecting what programs to apply to, and includes information about having a “Plan B”, in case students do not get into a Ph.D. program the first time they apply.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Statement of Purpose (SOP) (~ 40 min.)
This module has two sub-modules, one on the CV and one on the SOP. For the CV module, students are introduced to components of a CV and given guidance. Specific topics for the CV module include: biographical information, education, research activities, teaching activities, additional professional experiences, grants, honors, and awards, service and demonstrated commitment to diversity. The SOP module includes topics of: planning the SOP, finding essay prompts by a program, general tips, developing an SOP template, and sample SOPs.
Letter of Recommendation (~ 25 min.)
This module informs students about the materials and processes they should take for obtaining letters of recommendation. This module also includes topics of: What do graduate programs look for in letters of recommendation, who should you ask to write a letter, who is qualified to write you a letter, the request timeline, as well as examples for an application portfolio.
GRE Preparation and Expectations (~ 45 min.)
This module introduces the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and explains why the GRE is important. Specific topics in this module include: how to create an ETS account, what to expect on the day of testing, the structure of the computer delivered test, a discussion of when to take the GRE, and a description of each section of the test. In addition, students are introduced to fee reduction programs as well as given guidance for test preparation and how to select and send their scores to a graduate program.
Seeking Financial Support for Graduate Schools (~ 25 min.)
This module discusses funding options available to students for graduate school. Specific topics include: how to fund graduate studies available within the California State System, student debt that may occur, when and how to apply for funding, types of funding packages, and tips for managing finances as a graduate student.
Interviews for Graduate School (~ 25 min.)
This module discusses what students should expect and plan for when interviewing for graduate school. Specific topics include: the purpose of the interview, how to prepare for an interview, what to expect in terms of funding (i.e., travel and lodging), know who is interviewing you, preparation of a list of questions to ask and common interview questions, online versus in-person interviews, and post-interview etiquettes.
Individual Development Plan (~ 20 min.)
This module introduces students to the Individual Development Plan (IDP). Topics include: what is an IDP; the difference between short-term, intermediate, and long-term goals; the importance of setting goals and re-visiting/up-dating them; how to identify and assess skills; tips for bridging gaps in desired skills; how to get input from mentors, peers, and family members; and an example template for an IDP.
Summer Research Experience (~ 20 min.)
This module provides tips and guidance for students who are looking for and applying to programs that provide summer research experiences (SRE) for undergraduate students. Topics include: what is an SRE and what are the benefits of undergraduate research, where to look for SRE programs (including references to programs sponsored by NIH and NSF), how to apply to SREs, the SRE application timeline, how to discuss SRE programs with family members, and useful tips from past alumni. This module references the CV/SOP and Letter of Recommendation modules.
