Some Expectations of Faculty UG Mentors
Faculty enthusiasm for UG research matches that of the students themselves. In some cases faculty mentors will be the first exposure to the independent research or creative endeavors. Faculty members may knowingly or unknowingly play a pivotal role in the life trajectory of their student charges. As students choose to explore the realm of independent academic inquiry and scholarship we need to optimize their transformative learning experience.
The manner in which undergraduates can be engaged and incorporated into the research process depends on the discipline, the project, and the needs of the faculty member. With support, training, and guidance, students can contribute in a variety of ways, including:
- Conducting library research and literature reviews.
- Assisting with data collection, data entry, and analysis.
- Recruiting, scheduling, and running study participants.
- Conducting and transcribing interviews.
- Acting as research and laboratory assistants.
We all agree that faculty expectations will vary across disciplines and with individual preferences. Here we.ve provided a general list of common expectations to keep in mind as you mentor students.
Commitment to Learning
Successful faculty mentors demonstrate a genuine desire to expand the intellectual curiosity and professional development of students.
Motivation
Successful undergraduate researchers demonstrate the ability to work independently. Your supervisor should not have to prompt you to show up for work or finish a project.
Communication Skills
Provide constructive criticism, praise, and guidance without being prompted. Use respectful tones and remember that what is intuitive to you may not be to the students. A little praise can go a long way.
Time Commitment Expectations
Be cognizant of student schedules when you discuss expectations about time commitment.
Research Ethics and Practices
Whether you are working with existing data or human subjects, emphasize and demonstrate the ethical conventions in your field.
