Announcing the Eckles Prize for Freshman Research Excellence
Freshmen students are encouraged to submit a research project of any length or format, along with a one page essay summarizing how they used library resources to complete the project. Students should submit only one project that reflects their best work of the year. The winners will select one from the following prizes:
1st Place
• $300 JetBlue Gift Card OR $300 Amazon Gift Card OR $300 Apple Gift Card
2nd Place
• $200 JetBlue Gift Card OR $200 Amazon Gift Card OR $200 Apple Gift Card
3rd Place
• $100 JetBlue Gift Card OR $100 Amazon Gift Card OR $100 Apple Gift Card
All submissions are due May 31, 2008 and must include:
• Application Cover Sheet
• Research Project
• Research Essay
• Faculty Support Form
Submissions can be delivered to the Eckles Library service desk or emailed to eckprize@gwu.edu Email submissions should include all of the above information.
The winning project and research essay will be made available to the public.
Selection Criteria
The Eckles Prize for Freshmen Research Excellence recognizes research that has effectively utilized the library collections of the George Washington University. Projects are not limited to a specific length or format. All entries will be judged on the following criteria:
• Unusual depth or breadth in the use of library collections, including, but not limited to, printed resources, databases, primary resources, and materials in all media
• Exceptional ability to locate, select, evaluate, and synthesize library resources and to use them in the creation of a project in any media
• Evidence of significant personal learning and the development of a habit of research and inquiry that shows potential for future application
• Clear and effective communication of ideas.
All entries will be reviewed by the Eckles Library staff. A panel composed of GWU faculty, librarians, and other staff will judge the finalist. All entries will be judged according to the selection criteria as demonstrated in the project and summarized in the research essay. The characteristics of the discipline in which research is conducted will be considered throughout the judging process. The library research process is the primary focus of the Eckles Prize. Therefore, the research essay plays a critical role in the judging process. Please refer to the Research Essay Tips document for information about what to consider when completing the research essay.
The Application Cover Sheet and Faculty Support Form can be downloaded here as well as a complete Selection Criteria Matrix.
Application Form and Faculty Support Form
Selection Criteria Matrix
