As embodied in our Learn through Inquiry signature, Clark takes pride in its
program of undergraduate research. For students, doing undergraduate research
can be a transformative learning experience. At this CETL lunch, we asked
and sought answers to some “big picture” questions about how mentoring
undergraduate research fits into the larger constellation of faculty roles.
• Can mentoring undergraduate research provide a bridge between faculty
roles as scholars and teachers?
• How does the philosophical difference between theoretical and applied
research play out in undergraduate research?
• How can undergraduate research be integrated into classroom experiences?
• Should undergraduate researchers do original work, or should they be
apprentices in faculty research programs?
• Are the answers to these questions different in different disciplines?
Walter Wright, Dean of the College, introduced the session. Faculty presenters
Meredith Neuman, Deb Robertson, and Sarah Michaels shared some relevant
thoughts, and Michael Bamberg and Meredith Neuman facilitated an engaging and
provocative discussion.