Yellow background with an illuminated lightbulb on the right side of the page. On the left side of the page a navy quote says, "As signature work is developed, its defining characteristics became clear: signature work emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and applied problem-solving." The authors name "Cici Salazar" sits below this quote. The Elon Center for Engaged Learning logo sits in the bottom righthand corner.

History of Signature Work  

Previous posts in this series have introduced “signature work” and explored the variety of engaged learning activities that could be classified as signature work. In this post, I look at the history of signature work and reflect on its impact…

Mint transparent rectangles on image of two medical students. Text reads: "If an experience posses the key characteristics of signature work, it could likely be classified as such, and these designations may vary from institution to institution."

Different Types of Signature Work

As discussed in the initial post in this series, signature work consists of student-driven, integrative projects that address complex, real-world problems by synthesizing knowledge across disciplines. In this post, I examine types of engaged learning activities that could be categorized…

Is Leadership a High-Impact Practice?

The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) has defined high impact practices (HIPs) as experiences that promote student success which is determined by academic achievement, persistence, satisfaction, attainment of educational objectives, and acquisition of desired learning outcomes (Kuh 2017)….

Computer lab with Mac desktops and a window with trees outside. Red quare of text reads: "the physical transactions we have with spaces and social interactions held within then have important consequences"

What’s in an Undergraduate Research Space?

This semester, we have found ourselves thinking about the importance of research spaces for undergraduate research mentoring and research productivity. Dr. Thurman recently returned from a post-promotion sabbatical and rebuilt the infrastructure for her lab. Her psychology research program centers…

Digital drawing of a female student with brown hair wearing a brown skirt and a blue backpack looking at a chalkboard that says "My CEL Experience by Kira Campagns"

CEL Student Summer Experiences 

This was my first summer participating in the Center for Engaged Learning student scholar experience. In late spring, I applied to be part of the CEL Student Scholar program. For those who may not know, the program consists of a…