Impact of Undergraduate Research on Faculty Productivity and Career Advancement

Impact of Undergraduate Research on Faculty Productivity and Career Advancement

Korine Steinke Wawrzynsk and Justin Micomonaco

Tuesday, January 17, 2017 11:30 - 1:30

1425 BPS

Lunch Provided

Abstract:

Why do faculty choose to work with undergraduate researchers and can one effectively integrate undergraduates into their own research or scholarship? The MSU Undergraduate Research Office and the Honors College have been examining the impact of mentoring undergraduate researchers on faculty productivity and career advancement. Individual interviews were conducted with faculty representing a variety of academic disciplines (i.e., STEM, social sciences, humanities) and in different stages of their careers (i.e., assistant, associate, and full professors) who had an established record of mentoring undergraduate researchers. The goal is to develop a better understanding of the motivations, barriers, and rewards for faculty members mentoring undergraduate researchers as well as identify best practices and/or viable training models. Through a presentation and large group discussion, the presenters will share preliminary findings and seek feedback for implications on future practice.

Bios:

Dr. Korine Steinke Wawrzynski is the Assistant Dean for Academic Initiatives and Director for Undergraduate Research in the Office of Provost—Undergraduate Education at Michigan State University (MSU). She is an active member on the Council for Undergraduate Research and has held several leadership positions within the national organization. In addition, she is an adjunct faculty member for the Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education (HALE) program. Her research interests include student and faculty experiences in undergraduate research as well as the experiences of women leaders in higher education.

Dr. Justin Micomonaco is the Director of Assessment & Research in MSU’s Honors College where he examines honors student success and assesses the impact of college policies and programming. In addition, he oversees the college's undergraduate research programs. His research agenda currently focuses on undergraduate research, impact of honors programs and high-achieving students. In the past, he has conducted research on STEM education initiatives, living-learning communities, institutional change and organizational development.

Video of the Workshop

PowerPoint Slides