A new report has been published by the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) on Mentored Undergraduate Research in Global Contexts, or MUR-GC. The publication, co-edited by Maureen Vandermaas-Peeler, details the integration of the high-impact practices of mentoring, undergraduate research, and global and intercultural learning.
A new report has been published by the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) on Mentored Undergraduate Research in Global Contexts, or MUR-GC.
The publication details the integration of the high-impact practices of mentoring, undergraduate research and global and intercultural learning. Co-edited by Maureen Vandermaas-Peeler, professor of psychology and director of Elon’s Center for Research on Global Engagement (CRGE), with colleagues Dawn Whitehead of AAC&U, Susan Buck Sutton, emerita of Indiana University, Mary Price of the Forum on Education Abroad, Kate Patch of Grinnell College, and Kris Acheson of Purdue University, this volume explores the power of integrating these practices by tracing their origins and how institutions and individuals have integrated them. It provides models for adaptation in diverse institutional settings. Additionally, it highlights how MUR-GC can broaden access to global learning, encourage interdisciplinary perspectives, and ensure fair participation and ethical engagement. MUR-GC also creates valuable learning experiences for students, faculty, receiving communities, and host organizations.
In the publication’s foreword, AAC&U president Lynn Pasquerella noted that “the models of MUR-GC showcased here make evident their potential for profoundly impacting students, faculty, and institutions. Taken together, they compose a guide for future action and inquiry that empowers students as agents within an integrated ecosystem of knowledge needed to create and thrive in a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future.”
The publication is the result of two think tanks and several years of collaborative research and writing by three multi-institutional teams. The report is co-authored by Elon colleagues Amy Allocco, professor of religious studies and director of the Multifaith Scholars Program, Eric Hall, professor of exercise science and director of the Undergraduate Research Program, and Jen Hamel, associate professor of biology and associate director of the Undergraduate Research Program.
Research on MUR-GC will advance as Vandermaas-Peeler, in her new role as a Senior Fellow of AAC&U, continues to collaborate with Dawn Whitehead, Vice President of the Office of Global Citizenship for Campus, Community, and Careers at AAC&U.