Directed Research

What we expect of our undergraduate research assistants (RAs)

In the Early Language & Experience Laboratory we require a minimum 3 credit commitment each semester (2 credits just isn't enough time to be able to contribute meaningfully as a RA). If you make a 3 credit commitment then you will be required to work 9-10 hours/week in the lab. A 4 credit commitment requires 12 hours/week of work in the lab.

We want all of our undergraduate RAs to have a positive and rewarding experience in research.  Therefore we hope that you are signing up for directed research because you think it will be fun, challenging, important, and because you are interested in the research questions and process.

Our undergraduate RAs have a set schedule for the semester.  We expect that you will be in lab for your scheduled shifts and that if situations arise where you are unable to make a scheduled shift that you will communicate effectively with the lab manger on this matter.  We are understanding that some flexibility will be required on both of our parts from time to time.

As an RA you will be involved in many aspects of research, and you may even get to investigate your own research question under the direction of Melissa Koenig.

How to register for directed research

If you are interested in participating in directed research in the Early Language & Experience Laboratory please inquire with the lab manager about openings for a particular semester. If we do have openings then you will meet with the lab manager and/or Melissa Koenig to discuss your research interests and interest in participating in directed research. If you do become a member of our research team the lab manager will fill out a directed research contract with you, which you will hand in to peer advising (275 Peik), you will also be given a permission number to register for directed research.  If you have any questions or are interested in becoming an RA in our lab please contact the lab manager (sdoebel@umn.edu).