A “research experience for undergraduates” in signal processing, coding and communications

A unique Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) was offered at Utah State University in the summer of 2009, with research topics drawn from signal processing, digital communications, and error correction coding. Thirteen students participated in this ten-week program, working on nine separate projects. The program began with two weeks of intense instruction with five accompanying programming and writing assignments. Students were presented with a number of projects to choose from according to their preparation and preference, developing in them the independence and “buy in” necessary for effective original research. Regular social activities were also planned to develop the research team and keep energy up. Results include several conference and journal papers and contributions to other ongoing research projects.