Developing Academic Engagement Through a Virtual Week of Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity: Rethinking...

Area of Science:

• Higher Education
• Academic Events
• Virtual Collaboration

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift from in-person to virtual academic events.
• Maintaining community engagement and showcasing scholarly work remained a priority for California State University Long Beach (CSULB).

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and virtual transition of the Week of Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity (RSCA) event at CSULB.
• To identify challenges and lessons learned in delivering a virtual academic event during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• The paper outlines the strategic planning and execution of the virtual Week of RSCA event.
• It details the adaptation of activities and engagement strategies for an online platform.

Main Results:

• The virtual Week of RSCA successfully highlighted diverse research, scholarly, and creative activities across CSULB.
• The event fostered a sense of community and continued academic engagement despite physical restrictions.

Conclusions:

• Virtual events are a viable alternative for academic showcases during public health crises.
• Rethinking collaboration and adapting to virtual platforms are crucial for academic institutions navigating unprecedented challenges.