This book offers an introduction to the philosophy and practice of Undergraduate Research in Religious Studies and takes up several significant and ongoing questions related to it. It provides an overview of fundamental issues and pedagogical questions that relate to the practice of Undergraduate Research in Religious Studies and practical models for application in the classroom. It will also serve as a dialogue partner on emerging issues and insight into pertinent questions in the field based on the experience of recognized experts in the mentoring of Undergraduate Research. Individual chapte ... More

This book offers an introduction to the philosophy and practice of Undergraduate Research in Religious Studies and takes up several significant and ongoing questions related to it. It provides an overview of fundamental issues and pedagogical questions that relate to the practice of Undergraduate Research in Religious Studies and practical models for application in the classroom. It will also serve as a dialogue partner on emerging issues and insight into pertinent questions in the field based on the experience of recognized experts in the mentoring of Undergraduate Research. Individual chapters focus on select theoretical and practical topics including the nature of collaboration between faculty and students, what it means for undergraduate students to make an “original contribution” in their research, how to identify and shape a research project that is appropriate and manageable, the types of institutional and professional support systems needed to adequately support and reward faculty who participate in this kind of pedagogy, and procedures for adequate and appropriate assessment.