University of Wisconsin Stout | Wisconsin's Polytechnic University

The Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science Department of the University of Wisconsin-Stout recognizes the value of research and scholarly activity.  Such endeavors tend to enhance the professional health of the department and its members.  There are many reasons for defining these terms which include:

• To encourage members of the department to extend their knowledge in, or applications oriented developments in, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Education or other closely related fields.
• To inform faculty members of the departmental expectations with regard to promotion, renewal and tenure decisions.
• To inform other members of the UW-Stout community of the department's expectations with regard to promotion, renewal and tenure decision.
• To increase the visibility of the department's scholarly activities to the department members, the campus, the system, and beyond.
• To recognize and encourage excellence in research and other scholarly activities.
• To stay current with new research so that appropriate revisions/additions of courses/programs can be made to enhance the overall educational process of the students we serve.
• To broaden professional contacts and experience.
• To stay professionally active and so be good role models for students to also be life-long learners.

The definitions for research and scholarly activities reflect many of the ideas in Guidelines for Programs and Departments in Undergraduate Mathematical Sciences published by the Mathematical Association of America.  Although publishing research articles in refereed journals and grant seeking/securing activities are widely recognized as research activities, they certainly are not the only kinds of worthwhile scholarly activity.  Given the department's mission, a broader concept of research and scholarly activity needs formulation and acceptance.  (Submitted: 2/1/06)