Developing Research Groups: Implications for Establishing a Culture of Community

• In Event: Socialization and Cultures of Community in Doctoral Education

Abstract

Individuals learn and develop within various community, school, and classroom settings. However, knowledge is scant regarding how learning and development take place within other formal structures of teaching, namely a research group. Within research groups, a culture of community has implications for members’ learning, cohesion, and productivity. How groups develop and maintain a positive culture of community remains unclear. This article draws on 12 focus group interviews, with 23 participants over four years, to identify practices and activities that facilitated the development and maintenance of a culture of community within their group. Data revealed six essential interconnected practices and activities. The findings suggest implications for developing and maintaining a culture of community in settings where team-based learning collaborations are required.

Authors

• Brian A. Burt, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Blayne D. Stone, University of Wisconsin - Madison