GEC Tracks

Research, Scholarship, & Skills in General Education

Share research, scholarship, and essential skills development connected to General Education disciplines and/or interdisciplinary studies that highlight the core disciplines underpinning General Education and demonstrate continued relevance even as academia evolves. This track explores the Arts and Humanities, Communications, Composition, English & Rhetoric, Experiential Learning, Mathematics, Professional Studies, Sciences, and Social Sciences. All types of scholarship and research can find a spot on this track!

Ideas that fall under this theme include, but are not limited to:

• Scholarship connected to the core themes/disciplines within General Education (theoretical constructs, think pieces, new knowledge, sustained inquiry, etc.)

• Research related to practice and professional skills and connected to core themes covered in General Education (scholarship/research in practice, studies, case studies, applied research, etc.)

• Skills Development for students within General Education including but not limited to: leadership, teamwork, ethics, critical thinking, communication, professionalism, etc. 

Evidence-Based Practices in General Education

Evidence-based practices (EBPs) in general education refer to instructional strategies, interventions, and teaching methods that are proven effective through rigorous research and data analysis. EBPs focus on a range of areas, including differentiated instruction, formative assessment, and collaborative learning. Presentations can focus on teaching methods that are effective, equitable, and adaptable to diverse student needs, and promote both academic success and inclusivity in the classroom.

Ideas that fall under this theme include, but are not limited to: 

• Presentations of recent research findings

• Evidence-based practices in education

• Research methodologies in education

• Bridging the gap between research and practice

Leadership & Strategic Planning

Leadership and strategic planning are crucial for the success of both faculty and administrators in higher education. This track emphasizes research and practical applications of leadership strategies, policy formulation, and general education principles in both academic and administrative settings. For example:  Presentations could address how higher education leaders and faculty can cultivate student success in an increasingly interconnected global environment.

Ideas that fall under this theme include, but are not limited to: 

• Impact of leadership trends that are shaping Higher Education 

• Data-driven decision-making in leadership

• Policy formulation

• Strategic planning 

• General Education Reform

Innovation and Future Trends in Higher Education

General Education has taken on a new core significance in an increasingly complex and globalized world. General Education courses provide students with a firm foundation for both their core program of study and for life-long learning. This track examines contemporary issues, problems, and trends in higher education via research connected to General Education courses and the integration of General Education topics throughout the curriculum. 

Ideas that fall under this theme include, but are not limited to: 

• Innovation in Higher Education as connected to course design, programs, emerging technology/ tech tools, AI, design thinking, etc. 

• Technological trends: disruptive and enhancing

• Revolutionized learning spaces/places

• Innovation and Student Success 

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging within Higher Education

As noted in our institutional philosophy: “Purdue Global recognizes the worth and dignity of all people and is sensitive to the diversity of cultural and ethnic backgrounds represented in its student population. All students are encouraged to reach their potential within the framework of their individual needs, interests, and capabilities.” This track is designed to showcase research that celebrates diversity and highlights the importance of inclusivity within higher education. 

Ideas that fall under this theme include, but are not limited to: 

• Student support systems (including student-led organizations)

• Faculty support systems (including faculty-led organizations)

• Highlighting diversity and inclusivity in the classroom

• Equity and justice in higher education: policy and practice

• Underrepresented student/faculty populations

• Curriculum design initiatives that address DEIB

• Best practices for supporting diverse student populations

Lightning Sessions

Showcase your work in an innovative and exciting way! Presentation delivery will be in a “Lightning Session” format where a series of images is displayed in a rapid, highly engaged, meaningful, and concise presentation. Session participants will then be available at the end of each presentation for questions. Some fun ideas for Lightning Sessions include technology tool previews, snapshots of research, best practices in teaching highlights, creative works (creative writing, art, photography), or anything that would be fast-paced and engaging (please see session guidelines for more information).