A Summer REU Site Program on Engineering Education Research

Department of Engineering Education
Utah State University, Logan, Utah

Sponsored by the National Science Foundation

Overview:

This ten-week summer program provides undergraduate students in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) discipline with intensive experience in engineering education research, such as how learners' experience, background, and perception play a role when they learn engineering knowledge and skills. The program provides a focus towards research experience for undergraduates (REU) and is not to be considered an internship. Each REU participant will be assigned a faculty and graduate student mentor to provide the appropriate research expertise and direction in order to ensure that all participants have an opportunity to produce meaningful results. The program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation and hosted by Utah State University (USU) in Logan, Utah.

The central theme of the REU program is “Problem Solving in Engineering Education.” The program will be conducted in two phases: Phase 1 – Pre REU-Site Program (May 13 – 24, 2024); and Phase 2 - REU Site Program (May 28 – July 19, 2024). Phases 1 consists of preparatory and foundational work that will be conducted at the participant’s own educational institution/home-base and through distance mentoring, Phase 2 will be conducted at USU campus in Logan and will be face-to-face. This REU Site program is carefully designed to offer opportunities for each REU participant to engage in authentic and funded research tasks, both individually and collaboratively, as well as an opportunity to gain experience in managing the team project deliverables.

Abundant summer outdoor activities exist in Utah and nearby states, including numerous national parks and monuments, such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, and Arches National Parks. Logan is considered to be among the best college town in the nation. From remote areas accessible only to hardy backpackers, to beautiful vistas enjoyed on a leisurely walk, Logan’s wide spaces are a patchwork of scenic, recreational, and historic venues. Mountain hiking, biking, and rock climbing are among some of our most popular summer sports.

Stipend and Allowance:

Each REU student will receive up to $8,450, including 1) a stipend of $6,000, 2) a housing and meal allowance of $1,700, and 3) up to $750 for a round-trip airfare ticket to travel between their distant location and USU. The cost of living in Logan is low.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Must be at least 18 years old by the time the program starts on May 13, 2024.
2. Must be a citizen, national, or permanent resident of the United States.
3. Must be an undergraduate student with a good academic standing in a professional undergraduate program in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
4. Demonstrated interest in engineering education research

Students from institutions with limited or no research opportunities, or students from underrepresented groups, such as women and racial minority groups, are particularly encouraged to apply.