Research and inquiry remain central components of the Academy experience at PMSA. Research Core – Science is designed to provide students with opportunities to explore authentic scientific, educational, medical, social, and technological issues through structured research and investigation. Students will engage in both qualitative and quantitative methods while developing skills connected to critical thinking, collaboration, academic writing, and presentation.
Throughout the course, students will learn how to identify meaningful research questions, review academic literature, collect and analyze data, and communicate findings in professional formats. Emphasis will be placed on ethical research practices, scholarly communication, and real-world application of research methodology.
The culminating experience for the course will be participation in the annual PMSA Research Symposium, where students will present their findings through formal presentations, posters, and/or capstone products.
Course Purpose
The purpose of Research Core – Science is to provide students with foundational instruction in locating, understanding, evaluating, and conducting research within an academic setting. Students will strengthen their ability to critically analyze scholarly literature while developing the skills necessary to design and complete research projects connected to their individual interests and future academic pathways.
This course is designed not only to improve research literacy, but also to encourage curiosity, independence, professionalism, and academic integrity.
Course Learning Goals
- Develop and refine research questions connected to real-world issues.
- Identify and evaluate scholarly and credible academic sources.
- Distinguish between qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Analyze and interpret data using appropriate research practices.
- Assess the credibility, validity, and reliability of research studies.
- Evaluate research methodologies and identify limitations within studies.
- Construct organized literature reviews using academic writing standards.
- Apply ethical standards related to research and data collection.
- Collaborate effectively with peers during research activities and presentations.
- Communicate research findings clearly through written, oral, and visual formats.
- Present research professionally during symposium-style events.
- Utilize technology appropriately to support academic research and collaboration.
- Strengthen academic discussion, citation, and presentation skills.