UMB Scholar Circles offer unique opportunities for building connections across disciplines, accessing resources to enhance research, receiving guidance on publication and presentation, and advancing professional growth.

Benefits of Joining:

• Build Connections: Collaborate with faculty across disciplines to expand your network.
• Enhance Your Research: Access FCTL resources and expertise to support impactful educational research.
• Publication & Presentation Support: Gain guidance on how to publish and present your work.
• Professional Growth: Develop new skills, share knowledge, and contribute to UMB’s research community.

UMB Scholar Circles follow a straightforward process: express interest, get matched with like-minded colleagues, collaborate on research projects, and enjoy continuous support from FCTL resources and consultations. Each Circle works at its own pace toward meaningful research outcomes.

Step 1: Express Interest

Complete the Interest Survey to share your research areas and goals.

Step 2: Match with a Circle

The Circle co-coordinators will connect you with faculty who have complementary interests. Co-coordinators help facilitate the formation of Circles but do not lead the groups, empowering each Circle to establish its own collaborative dynamic.

Step 3: Collaborate and Create

Participate in regular group meetings to brainstorm, plan, and execute research projects. Circles have flexibility in how often they meet and work at their own pace toward meaningful outcomes—whether publications, presentations, or educational resources.

Step 4: Access Ongoing Support and Resources

Scholar Circles receive structured support from the FCTL and co-coordinators, including:

• Meeting Structure and Agenda Templates: Suggested agendas and templates to help keep meetings organized and productive.
• Project Planning and Research Frameworks: Tools and templates for designing and managing research projects effectively.
• Guidance on Publication and Dissemination: Periodic workshops and resource drops on topics like publishing, presenting, and sharing research findings.
• Regular Check-ins and Resource Drops: Co-coordinators will provide periodic check-ins and curated resources to help each Circle stay on track and achieve its goals.

UMB Scholar Circles cover a wide range of research topics, from assessment in learning to AI in education. While these examples highlight common areas of interest, Circles are open to any research focus, encouraging both traditional and interdisciplinary projects.

Example Research Areas:

• Assessment in Learning
• Curriculum Development
• AI in Education
• Educational Technology
• Faculty Development
• Student Engagement
• Other emerging or interdisciplinary areas based on faculty interest

Note: UMB Scholar Circles are open to any research area; these are just examples to inspire.

Who can join a Scholar Circle?

Any UMB faculty or staff interested in collaborative research are welcome to join.

Do I need prior research experience?

No, Scholar Circles are open to all experience levels.

What’s the time commitment?

Circles typically meet monthly, with additional time depending on project needs.

Can I join multiple Scholar Circles?

Yes, if your schedule permits and interests align with multiple groups.