Sunday, February 17, 2013
Auditorium/Exhibit Hall C (Hynes Convention Center)
Background: Morehouse College is an independent, fully accredited, historically black, liberal arts college for men and has been a leader in the education of African American men in STEM fields. An increased emphasis has been placed on preparing students to become scientists and to recruit, retain and motivate minority students toward scientific careers. One approach has been to focus on meaningful student engagement in the scientific process and the interdisciplinary nature of science. Methods: The College has developed a research track for undergraduate STEM majors across the Division of Science and Mathematics with HHMI funding that allows students to participate in authentic research experiences. Curriculum restructuring produced a research intensive track that students begin with Introduction to Interdisciplinary Collaborations, which prepares students for their research experience, and 3 research-credit courses (Interdisciplinary Research I, II & III). Results: Introduction to Interdisciplinary Collaborations incorporates transdisciplinary approaches to scientific questions incorporating ethics, scientific writing, research methodology, and techniques from labs in the Division. This course introduces students to the rigor of working in a research laboratory and places special consideration on working on interdisciplinary projects. Upon successful completion of this course, students are better prepared to participate in academic year and summer research experiences. All students participate in an in-house undergraduate research symposium and are encouraged to present their research at scientific meetings: several students have gone on to conduct research at international laboratories and/or participate in the HHMI supported Exceptional Research Opportunities Program (EXROP). This integrated approach gives students the best opportunity to truly appreciate how modern research is conducted. Conclusion: Part of the significance of this research track is that it is the first course at Morehouse College to be offered within each department in the Division and represents a collaborative effort of faculty across the Division. This program leveraged funding for student support in other campus programs by allowing diverse programs to funnel students into a coordinated research track and by restructuring mentored research experience for Division students. These efforts facilitated and enhanced collaborations to further enhance student development by offering students exceptional research experiences on campus with a focus on collaborative experiences.