ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book highlights major themes related to undergraduate research for student engagement and learning, and explores implications for the practices of undergraduate research mentorship and program administration. It addresses a number of subtopics pertaining to undergraduate research, which were grouped under four main topics: the concept, the rationale, the conditions, and the issues. The book offers justification for undergraduate research, based on contemporary educational theory, the history and cultural values of American higher education, and a growing body of assessment data that attests to the impact of undergraduate research on participating students. It presents an analysis of the current social and political climate for undergraduate research, with attention to how it might influence the advancement of inquiry-based learning in the years ahead. The book examines limitations in the existing body of literature, and also presents recommendations for further research.
