Conducting Impactful Research at Primarily Undergraduate Institutions

Area of Science:

• Higher Education
• Academic Research
• Faculty Development

Background:

• Primarily Undergraduate Institutions (PUIs) are major employers for Ph.D. graduates.
• PUI faculty often engage in significant research, contrary to external perceptions.
• Misconceptions persist among funding agencies and research-intensive institutions regarding PUI research activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To challenge the misconception that faculty at PUIs are not research-active.
• To showcase the research experiences and successful approaches of faculty at PUIs.
• To provide insights into conducting impactful research within the PUI environment.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative approach featuring shared experiences from sixteen faculty members.
• Focus on practical strategies and methodologies employed by PUI faculty.
• Case study examples of research conducted at PUIs.

Main Results:

• Faculty at PUIs successfully balance teaching and research responsibilities.
• Diverse research areas and impactful outcomes are achieved by PUI faculty.
• Effective strategies for securing funding and resources exist within PUIs.

Conclusions:

• PUI faculty are integral to the research landscape, contributing significantly.
• Highlighting PUI faculty research can shift perceptions and foster collaborations.
• Support and recognition for PUI research are crucial for academic advancement.