MCUR Frequently Asked Questions
Provost William Destler, in a letter to faculty members October 2, 2002
What is undergraduate research?
Research is the process of creating new knowledge. Used by all disciplines, research can take many different forms, from scientific theory testing to artistic endeavors. Undergraduate research uses these same disciplinary traditions to produce results worthy of communication to others. The colleges and disciplines at the University of Maryland support many formal and informal research programs, from interdisciplinary projects to honors theses.
Why is it important to have a strong undergraduate research program at UMD?
Excellent undergraduate research will contribute to the University of Maryland's commitment to enhance and improve undergraduate education in terms of teaching and learning. Many students learn best through the discovery/inquiry process than from traditional instruction. Research priority in the undergraduate experience will prepare students to become educated consumers of research and cultivate the next generation of researchers.
Why is research valuable for undergraduate students?
Provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with experienced faculty researchers, graduate students, and other undergraduates. Demonstrates to graduate schools that students went above and beyond classroom expectations. Assists students in improving critical thinking skills Encourages students to make a unique contribution to an academic field.
How can faculty and graduate students involve undergraduates in research?
You can involve students in research by providing the mentorship that help students become excited about a discipline. Students usually start as research apprentices (reviewing articles, developing an annotated bibliography, opening themselves up to the discovery of new knowledge and new ideas) and in time can become research partners.
Which current UGST programs are available to undergraduate students?
Maryland Student Researchers provides students with a listing of all faculty members who wish to have an undergraduate assistant on their research. After completion of the project, students receive a notation on their transcript. Senior Summer Scholars (SSS) financially supports 30 students during the summer.
What is the Maryland Center for Undergraduate Research (MCUR)?
MCUR serves as a center on campus dedicated to promoting and facilitating research experiences for undergraduate students. Located on the second floor of McKeldin Library, MCUR is the key resource and reference point for on- and off- campus research opportunities.
What does MCUR do for undergraduate students?
Provides information about on- and off-campus research opportunities. Sponsors innovative workshops by integrating research experiences into students' employment and graduate school plans. Develops students' partnerships with faculty members and other student resources on campus, such as the National Scholarship Office, the Graduate School, and the Career Center to support students' research endeavors. Assists students in developing the research methods which are needed to draw both academic and life lessons.
How can MCUR help faculty and graduate students?
Provide opportunities to share strategies with other faculty members for integrating research into the curriculum. Assist faculty members in finding top undergraduate students as research assistants, in keeping with the President's priorities on mentoring and undergraduate research. Provide funds to support the scholarship of teaching and learning as undergraduate research.
What is Undergraduate Research Day (URD)?
The URD is a campus showcase of undergraduate research from all colleges on campus. Held each April (right before Maryland Day), URD provides an opportunity for students to showcase their work through poster sessions, presentations, and artwork. In 2006, over 500 students participated Faculty members are invited to bring their classes to the event to encourage students to become engaged with research at the undergraduate level. The fifth annual Undergraduate Research Day will be held on Wednesday, April 25, 2007. Students may submit proposals at www.ugresearch.umd.edu.
What can I do to support undergraduate research at the University of Maryland?
Provide opportunities for students to become part of research teams. Identify students who you believe will benefit from a research opportunity and encourage them to visit MCUR. Identify research opportunities around the country and send the information to MCUR. For more information, visit www.ugresearch.umd.edu.