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Engaging In Research
Students participating in research are expected to follow the acceptance procedures, uphold the program’s core values, adhere to ethical research methodologies, and meet the outlined research expectations.
Joining a Research Project
Students interested in pursuing research are encouraged to consult with their faculty advisor to explore opportunities. If a student decides to join a research project, they should speak directly with the primary investigator (PI) or co-PI, faculty member on the project, as this may not always be their assigned faculty advisor. Once involved in the project, this faculty member will take on the role of their research faculty mentor. See a list of CSG research projects below.
Students can choose to participate in research by either volunteering or applying for the prestigious University of Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC).
Volunteering on Research Projects:
Volunteering on research projects can be an excellent opportunity to gain experience and determine if research aligns with their interests. To volunteer on a project, simply talk to the faculty PI on a given research project. Gaining volunteer experience before applying to TURC can strengthen their TURC application.
Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC)
The University of Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC) provides students with a stipend for research and community service.
Students should consult their research faculty mentor to confirm eligibility before applying. Applications, including a letter of interest to the faculty PI, are due in early February, with acceptance announced in April. For more information, visit: https://utulsa.edu/research/research-opportunities/turc/
Alternative Opportunities
For students not accepted into TURC, there may still be grant funding opportunities, and should consult their research faculty mentor for details on available funds and application processes. Additionally, students can discuss the possibility of earning academic credit through an independent study course if it fits their academic plan.
Research Commitment and Expectations
Students involved in research will meet with their research faculty mentor to establish a schedule, including deliverables due dates and collaborative meeting times. Typically, students should expect to dedicate around 3 hours per week to their research project, though this may vary by student and project.
Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC)
Students accepted into the TURC program are expected to complete either 200 hours of research and 20 hours of community service during the summer, or 133 hours of research and 13 hours of community service during the academic year. Awarded stipend amounts vary based on total TURC hours.
Methods of Research
Many research projects in the Tandy School of Computer Science follow the constructive research method; a systematic approach that enables the purposeful creation of methods, modules, tools, and techniques that have applicability well beyond the case study that motivated their creation.
In addition to constructive research, students may encounter various other research methods, including empirical, experimental, and theoretical approaches. Regardless of the research method, students should focus on defining clear objectives and maintaining rigorous, ethical, and systematic practices in data handling and documentation.
Self-Directed Learning
Success in research requires self-discipline and initiative. Students must engage in self-directed learning, actively seeking new skills and knowledge to tackle complex problems. While research faculty mentors and peers offer guidance, it is ultimately the student’s responsibility to acquire the necessary skills for their research.
Research Culture and Values
Research at the Tandy School of Computer Science is committed to exploring new knowledge, and creating innovative technologies while fostering a culture of integrity, respect, and ethical collaboration.
- Integrity and Ethics: Uphold honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all research, avoiding harm and respecting privacy.
- Respect and Professionalism: Treat everyone fairly, maintain professionalism, and commit to fulfilling obligations and ethical behavior.
- Exploration and Free Inquiry: Encourage curiosity and the pursuit of innovative ideas while adhering to ethical and legal boundaries.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Embrace diverse perspectives and inclusive collaboration, ensuring all voices contribute to innovation.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Foster effective teamwork and open communication, supporting collective success through mutual respect and cooperation.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Support continuous learning, skill development, leadership, and mentoring as key aspects of the research experience.
- Systematic and Responsible Research: Maintain clear objectives, rigorous data handling, and accountability to ensure high-quality and impactful outcomes.
- Do No Evil: Ensure that research benefits society and the environment, striving to prevent harm in all endeavors.
CSG Research Projects
Current and Ongoing Research
Virtual Reality Simulation – Nursing Training (VRSNT)
A collaborative development of a Virtual Reality Simulation in Nursing Training (VRSNT) between the Oxley College of Health Sciences and the Tandy School of Computer Science at the University of Tulsa. The primary objective is to seamlessly integrate the VRSNT into the nursing education curriculum at Oxley College. By examining relevant literature and incorporating best practices, this study investigates the effective application of virtual reality simulations in nursing education. Additionally, it sheds light on key features of the VRSNT, including its innovative objective tree system and user-friendly input system. Ultimately, this research contributes to the advancement of virtual reality in nursing education and underscores the distinctive attributes of the VRSNT.
Carbon Capture, Usage and Storage (CCUS) Educational Sim
The Untitled CCUS Project is an educational simulation that challenges players to address carbon emissions through real-world carbon capture, usage, and storage (CCUS) strategies. Using a city-building format, players manage budgets, weigh trade-offs, and see the environmental impact of their choices play out. Grounded in real climate data, the game aims to make complex sustainability decisions engaging and accessible. A playable prototype is in development, with future versions set to expand the narrative and incorporate real-world CCUS case studies.
Previous Projects
Virtual Immersive, Remote Sensing and Actuation (VIRSA)
The Virtual Immersive, Remote Sensing and Actuation (VIRSA) project, a collaboration between The University of Tulsa and the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), aims to develop a smart infrastructure system that utilizes digital twins for enhanced performance analysis, security threat validation, resilience strategy assessment, and environmental response measurement within a constellation of installations. By employing virtual reality technology, this innovative project will enable users to interact with immersive environments representing real-world scenarios, ultimately leading to improved decision-making processes in the face of various challenges associated with smart infrastructure systems.