This Work-in-Progress paper in the Research Category explores the unique challenges and opportunities of interdisciplinary education in computational modeling for life sciences student researchers at emerging research institutions (ERIs), specifically in predominantly undergraduate institutions (PUIs), and minority serving institutions (MSIs). Engineering approaches such as computational modeling have underappreciated potential for capacity building for the biomedical research enterprises of ERIs. We perform a bibliometric analysis to assess the prevailing use of computational modeling in life sciences research at MSIs, and PUIs. Additionally, we apply Social and Cognitive Theory to identify unique attitudinal, social and structural barriers for student researchers in learning and using computational modeling approaches at each of these types of institutions. Specifically, we use quantitative retrospective pre- and post-survey data and qualitative interviews of students who have attended a short-format computational modeling training course. We supplement these data with qualitative interviews of the students' faculty sponsors. Upon completion, this study will provide deeper understanding of issues related to computer science and engineering education at non-Research I institutions.
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From Lack of Time to Stigma: Barriers Facing Faculty at Minority Serving Institutions Pursuing Federally Funded Research
Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) serve a high proportion of students from underrepresented minority groups, particularly within STEM fields. MSIs make up approximately 14 percent of all degree-granting, Title IV-eligible institutions for higher education, and they enroll approximately 30 percent of all undergraduates in the United States. However, in 2018, only 3 percent of all
federal obligations for science and engineering research and development provided to institutions of higher education was distributed to MSIs. Federal funding agencies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), have recognized the need to diversify their funding portfolios to increase the engagement of under-participating institutions, including MSIs. With this in mind, a conference was held in February 2020, funded by NSF, with the goal to increase the number and competitiveness of proposals from MSI faculty to core programs within NSF’s Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE). While informative, the conference, along with the interest survey sent to potential participants, revealed multiple challenges and barriers MSI faculty face as they attempt to secure and conduct research funding. This work-in-progress paper focuses on the responses to an open-ended question of the conference interest survey focusing on barriers to securing research funding.
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- Award ID(s):
- 1941329
- NSF-PAR ID:
- 10304434
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- ASEE Annual Conference proceedings
- ISSN:
- 1524-4644
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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