The Center for Engaged Learning (CEL) invites applications from current Elon University first-year students for a three-year (Summer 2024 – Spring 2027) research collaboration on Affirming and Inclusive Engaged Learning for Neurodivergent Learners. Accepted CEL Student Scholars will collaborate with three Elon University faculty – Dr. Caroline Ketcham, Dr. Stephen Byrd, and Dr. Jessie L. Moore – and Dr. Joanna Rankin, Associate Professor in the Community Rehabilitation & Disability Studies (CRDS) at the University of Calgary, to lead international, multi-institutional research on this engaged learning topic.

Learn more about the 2024-2027 research focus.

Eligibility

The CEL Student Scholar program is open to current Elon University first-year students (during the 2023-2024 academic year) from any major. Applicants should have an interest in engaged learning in higher education (broadly) and in the 2024-2027 research topic  –  Affirming and Inclusive Engaged Learning for Neurodivergent Learners.

First-year students apply in spring (Spring 2024) to begin the program in the summer between their first and second years (Summer 2024).

Application Guidelines

To apply, submit the following materials by March 22, 2024:

• A letter of application, and
• A supporting letter of recommendation from an Elon University faculty or staff member.

Letter of Application

Your letter of application should:

• Describe your interest in the research topic  –  Affirming and Inclusive Engaged Learning for Neurodivergent Learners – and in collaborating with faculty to lead international research about engaged learning;
• Briefly introduce your major (and any minors), as well as other campus, community, or workplace activities that shape who you are; and
• Reflect on what you would hope to gain from this three-year research collaboration.

Submit an electronic copy of your letter of application to CEL Director, Dr. Jessie L. Moore (jmoore28@elon.edu), by March 22, 2024.

Supporting Letter of Recommendation

Your supporting letter of recommendation should come from an Elon University faculty or staff member who can speak to:

• Your preparation for undertaking this mentored research opportunity; and
• Contributions you might make to the program, through both your collaboration with CEL’s research seminar participants and your interactions with other CEL Student Scholars.

The Elon University faculty or staff member writing your supporting letter of recommendation should submit an electronic copy of the letter to CEL Director, Dr. Jessie L. Moore (jmoore28@elon.edu), by March 22, 2024.