Structuring Successful Undergraduate Research Experiences

Presented by Dr. Korine Wawrzynski, Dr. Justin Micomonaco, Dr. Dirk Colbry and Dr. Stephanie Watts

Wednesday, November 12, 2014 11:30 - 1:30

3405 Engineering Building

Lunch Provided

Abstract Incorporating undergraduates into your research agenda can yield enormous learning and professional development gains for students. However, working with young researchers often requires a significant investment of time and resources to ensure a productive arrangement. This session will tackle some of the challenges related to mentoring undergraduate researchers. Specifically, we will present findings from a multi-year study on the characteristics of undergraduate research experiences that are linked to successful student outcomes. For example, the data provide guidance on: How frequently do I need to meet with my mentee? What type of mentoring relationship is necessary? Does the faculty member need to be the primary mentor? Building off these data, we will then discuss various models for successfully incorporating undergraduates into research teams, including specific examples from STEM faculty. The goal is to help participants conceptualize how to structure research opportunities that are productive for both the student and research mentor.

Korine Steinke Wawrzynski is the Assistant Dean for Academic Initiatives and Director for Undergraduate Research in the Provost's Office at Michigan State University (MSU). She also serves as an adjunct Assistant Professor in the Student Affairs Administration master's degree program. Dr. Wawrzynski is an active member of the Council on Undergraduate Research, where she serves as a Councilor and has co-chaired two national conferences on undergraduate research. Her research interests include innovative learning opportunities for undergraduate students, the experiences of women leaders in higher education, and collaborative partnerships between academic and student affairs. She has earned a bachelor's degree in English from Monmouth College, a master's degree in College Student Personnel, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration, both from Bowling Green State University.

Dr. Justin Micomonaco, Director of Assessment & Research, Honors College Dr. Micomonaco leads assessment and research efforts at the Honors College. In addition, he oversees the college's undergraduate research programs. His research agenda currently focuses on undergraduate research, including the impact of participation and the characteristics of faculty mentors. In the past, he has conducted research on STEM education initiatives, living-learning communities, institutional change and organizational development.

Video of the session

STEM Training Undergrad Researchers from ANR Communications MSU on Vimeo.

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