Educational opportunities

June 25, 2009, 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EDT: Leveraging the Power of the Internet: Research Scanning Using RSS FHWA Research Web Conference

The workshop will provide a basic understanding and competency in the features and functionality of two free Really Simple Syndication (RSS) Readers.
Link to join web conference: http://fhwa.na3.acrobat.com/powerofinternet/ and teleconference, number to access audio portion: 800-988-0375, 14202
For more information, please contact EAR Librarian Lance Warren at Lance.Warren@fhwa.dot.gov or 202-493-3123 or EAR Program Manager David Kuehn at david.kuehn@dot.gov or 202-493-3414

July 13, 2009, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. EDT: How to Write an Effective Research Statement

Reserve your Webinar seat now at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/798836768 Whether you’re a DOT practitioner, consultant or university researcher, it’s always a challenge to find funding for needed research. The TRB Conduct of Research Committee has put together some resources for you to consider, beginning with a critical first step in obtaining funds: Writing an effective research statement.

In this Webinar you will hear practical guidance from a TRB senior program officer who has reviewed many a project statement – the good, the bad, and the ugly. You will also hear the perspectives of two successful proposers whose project statements were compelling enough to receive funding. Speakers will discuss topics that include: Coming up with a good title, convincing reviewers the research is critical, succinctly stating the objective, clearly and honestly identifying the benefits, and explaining how the results will be put to use. Discussion will be encouraged among presenters, and Webinar participants will have the opportunity to ask questions. Presenters for this session include:

• Patrick Casey, CTC & Associates, Moderator. “Resources from the TRB Conduct of Research Committee”
• Christopher Hedges, TRB Senior Program Officer. “How to Write an Effective Research Statement”
• Randall Wade, Wisconsin Department of Transportation. “Relating Your Research Need to a Pressing National Issue”
• William R. “Randy” Cox, American Segmental Bridge Institute. “Working Through AASHTO to Meet DOT Needs”
• Gail D’Avino, Georgia Department of Transportation. “Persistence Does Make a Difference.”

Registration: There is no fee for TRB Sponsors, listed here: http://www.trb.org/directory/sponsors.asp. Others must pay $99 per site. Space is limited, so please register in advance.

For questions about using this software, including webinar audio or visual complications, please contact Reggie Gillum at rgillum@nas.edu or 202-334-2382.