| University Libraries
Thanks for your interest in the GMU Libraries' Business Research Toolkit! The Toolkit is now asynchronous and self-paced. Each module contains instructional resources, a practice tutorial, and a quiz. You may complete these modules at any time and in any order.
Email Kelly Bennett at kbenne4@gmu.edu at any time with questions.
This is a self-paced asynchronous program consisting of 8 modules (5 core and 3 elective), each of which take approximately 1.5 hours to complete.
It takes approximately 6 weeks to complete the Toolkit at the pace of 1 core module per week, and at least 2 electives completed in the final week.
Core Modules
Company Research
Industry Research
News Searching
Demographics & Marketing
International Business Research
Elective Modules
Investment Research
Career Research
Academic Integrity
The Business Research Toolkit (originally the Business Research Certificate) originated at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Libraries. Created in 2010 by Jeff Graveline, the program was developed to meet the business research needs of students, faculty, and staff across campus. Since it was started, hundreds of students from all backgrounds have received a certificate of completion. The program was originally designed to cover specific areas of business research including: the research process, company research, industry research, advanced news searching, demographics & business statistics, and international research. The program also includes a module designed to cover all aspects of academic dishonesty.
Kara Van Abel took over the program in the Spring of 2017 adding new modules and re-designing the format to make the Business Research Toolkit accessible to anyone regardless of their location or schedule. The George Mason University Libraries' Business Research Toolkit program is modeled off of this version and was adapted by Business Librarian Jo Ann Henson and Research & Instruction Specialist Kelly Bennett. Much of the content was taken directly from UAB's Business Research Toolkit with permission. You can access UAB's Toolkit here: https://guides.library.uab.edu/businesscertificate
Q. Who can take the Business Research Toolkit?
A. The toolkit is open to all GMU students, staff, and faculty.
Q. How much does the Business Research Toolkit cost?
A. There is no cost to participate.
Q. Is the Business Research Toolkit asynchronous?
A. Yes, however we suggest completing at least 1 module per week.
Q. Will I receive course credit for completing the toolkit?
A. No, however you can add it to your resume and professional portfolio. If you have permission from a faculty member to complete the Toolkit for class credit, you may be asked to complete additional assignments.
