Incorporating Research in the Undergraduate Experience at a Private Teaching-Centric Institution

This paper presents several case studies that demonstrate how undergraduate students at a teaching-centric institution can actively participate in research. We elaborate on three mechanisms to include students in research: independent study, technical electives, and senior design (capstone) project. Our examples in these mechanisms present techniques to keep students interested and motivated throughout a research project. These techniques also create possibilities for publication and creation of new research areas, both of which are vital to the faculty's and student's success. We elaborate on lessons learned with the aim to help faculty at teaching-centric institutions to effectively incorporate research in the undergraduate experience, while conducting an effective research program of their own.