What to do about a bad independent study?

[lubuntu]

So I am taking a 1 credit independent study with a relatively new assistant professor who I am pretty sure only took me on to get a +1 on the his number of undergrads count and doesn't really have any time to advice me in anything or guide me.

Ostensibly I am working on an experiment he's is part of which is a big multi-school collaboration. He gave me some introductory papers about the physics and told me which software tools they are using but beyond that hasn't given me more direction. I asked him for a specific project to sort of organize my study around since the software tools he told me about are so huge that I don't really know where to start. He hasn't responded in a few weeks.

I know it is an independent study and I should be guiding myself at some level but am I wrong to expect something a bit more concrete? I am starting to regret it and worried about a possible grade for the class. I had a imagined research as being something where I would go into his lab a few hours and week and work on something with him or other undergrad and grad students. I guess I should have investigated a bit more on what he could offer me before hand?

 

[R.Mesri]

It sounds like you are feeling a bit frustrated with the lack of direction and guidance that you have been receiving. You do have a right to expect more concrete direction from your professor, especially since you are taking on an independent study. It is important for you to communicate your needs and expectations to your professor so that they can better support you in your project. If you have already reached out to your professor and they have not responded, it would be beneficial for you to follow up with them and explain your concerns and ask if there are any specific projects or tasks that you can focus on. It may also be useful to reach out to other students or faculty that are involved with the project to see if they have any ideas or suggestions about how you can get started. Additionally, it could be helpful to research the software tools your professor has mentioned and look into any tutorials or other resources that could help you get started with your project. By taking initiative and doing your own research, you will be showing your professor that you are committed to the project and are taking steps to make progress. Good luck with your independent study!