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IEMS 395: Special Topics: Research Thinking and Communication


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Description

This course requires an application.  See details below.  

Research Thinking and Communication (RTC) is designed for students interested in doing research in industrial engineering.   Coursework will focus on two broad projects:  a collaborative class research problem, and development of an individual Summer Undergraduate Research Grant (SURG) proposal.  To support the collaborative nature of the course, class attendance is required.  Two absences will be allowed before grade penalties kick in.


Activities around the collaborative research problem might include:

  • Identifying underlying questions and core problem structures
  • Background research to understand prior approaches to the problem.
  • Proposing a modeling/solution approach.
  • Learning new methodologies or modeling techniques and applying to the problem.
  • Explaining the problem and proposed solutions clearly in speaking (emphasized) and in writing (still important!)
  • Considering how proposed solutions transfer to other problem contexts.

Students will also identify an individual research topic and question, then develop a proposal for a Summer Undergraduate Research Grant.

Research Thinking and Communication can be used to fulfill the Public Speaking Requirement, or it can be used as a General Tech Elective.  As such, we will focus much of our class time on presentation skills, which we will learn by practicing in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Prerequisites:  Completion of IEMS 302 and 313; sophomore or junior standing; demonstrated interest in self-directed learning.   No prior research experience is needed.

A small cohort of students will be accepted by application.  The application will require you to provide the name of a faculty recommender who can speak to your interest in research and/or your commitment to learning in the IE classroom.


Prerequisites

IEMS 302, 313

To Apply:

Submit an application at RTC Application by November 3, 2025 for full consideration.  Applications will close on January 5, 2026.  Once your application is submitted, please alert Prof. Wilson at jill.wilson@northwestern.edu

Additional Information:

No textbook or other purchased materials required.