How to Work Independently and Problem Solve in a Research Lab

As an undergraduate research assistant in a multilingual aphasia and dementia lab, working independently and honing your problem-solving skills are essential. For many of you, this may be your first job or research opportunity, and it’s natural to feel unsure of what or how to do new things. This guide will provide strategies and examples to help you tackle challenges on your own before seeking assistance.

Table of Contents

1 Common Questions:
- 1.1 What do I do if I need to find information I might have already been told?
- 1.2 What do I do if I am not quite sure how to do something?
2 How do I Communicate Efficiently and Effectively with Supervisors?
- 2.1 Tips for Effective Communication:
3 Guidelines for Communication

Before reaching out to your supervisor, document the problem, steps you’ve taken to solve it, and any specific questions you have. Use clear and concise language in your communication.

Don’t wait until the last minute to seek help. Address issues as they arise and keep your supervisor informed of your progress.

Common Questions:

What do I do if I need to find information I might have already been told?

What do I do if I am not quite sure how to do something?

How do I Communicate Efficiently and Effectively with Supervisors?

Tips for Effective Communication:

Be Prepared: Have all relevant information and documents ready before contacting your supervisor.
Be Concise: Get to the point quickly and provide necessary details without overloading your message.
Be Professional: Address your supervisor respectfully and follow any preferred communication protocols.
Be Proactive: Address issues as they arise and keep your supervisor informed of your progress.

Guidelines for Communication

1. Problem Solving Before Reaching Out

Example:

Scenario: You encounter an issue with video clipping software.
Approach:
- Identify the Problem: Clearly define what is not working.
- Attempt Solutions: Try basic troubleshooting steps such as restarting the software, checking for updates, and consulting the Lab Wiki.
- Document Attempts: Keep a record of the steps you’ve taken to solve the issue.

2. Composing Efficient, Detailed, and Clear Messages

Example:

Scenario: You need feedback on a lexical retrieval homework task.
Best Approach:
- Provide Context: Briefly explain the task and the specific part you need feedback on.
- Include Details: Attach relevant documents, specify the exact issue, and mention any resources you have already consulted.
- Be Clear and Concise: Use bullet points or numbered lists to organize your message for clarity.

Example of Poor Communication:

Example of Good Communication

Example of Ideal Communication

3. Using Teams for Communication

Steps for Effective Communication via Teams:

A. Initiating a Message

Select the Appropriate Channel: Choose the relevant team chat and channel for your query. Patient related questions always go in the patient chat.

Use Supervisor Chats for Specific Issues: For personal issues or sending daily updates, send your supervisor(s) a message to the Supervisor Chats set up for you.