FAST Notes

Integrating Teaching and Research--Part 1 of 2

One way to increase your efficiency and effectiveness is by integrating what you do in the classroom with your research.

Here are some ideas:
(a) use your research to illustrate points or as examples in the classroom; (b) when you travel, write papers, conduct experiments, or meet with research colleagues, share your experiences with your class.

By doing so, you help students learn the vocabulary and culture of your discipline. Even if the research experience does not seem to directly relate to course materials, students can benefit from seeing how you think and by being exposed to emerging research work. With some creative transitions, you can often link your research with your instruction to the benefit of all.

Coffee thought: How can I incorporate my research work into my classroom?

Integrating Teaching and Research--Part 2 of 2

Some of the most productive professors integrate teaching and research.

Here are some more ways:

  • Assign student projects in areas where your research intersects a class topic

  • Encourage students to conduct independent study projects in your research area as extensions of your course (most departments have special topics and/or honors project courses
Often the course topic may not seem to intersect with your research area. However, if you think creatively, and challenge students to do so, you may uncover new ways of thinking about the course and your research. Don't underestimate the abilities of students who are properly motivated.

Student course projects can be a valuable research resource for you as well as an important learning experience for students. And since you are already an expert in the field, it takes minimal preparation for you to help them learn.

A quote on this topic (sent in response to the FAST note above ): "... this addresses a critical issue because research is what separates us from so many other institutions. Directly integrating research into our teaching is what makes this university special." - J.G. Eden, Associate Vice-Chancellor for Research and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering (Thanks Gary!)


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