Topic Ideas

Topic Ideas Submitted by the SMU Community

SMU community members have already submitted a number of QEP topic concepts. These include: undergraduate research; community-based learning; creating a bilingual student community; emphasis on globalization through the curriculum; first-year seminars and interdisciplinary capstone courses; and improving student learning by focusing on the needs identified in the general education curriculum review.

QEP submissions from the SMU community have also focused on a number of methods or tools that might be used widely to improve student learning: cohort class advising; externships; a “scholars” program that would emphasize group research and individual research and presentations; and a “Class Dean” model (e.g., Dean of First-Year Class, etc.); a center devoted to faculty and student research and its use in start-up companies; debate; and living-learning programs within residential colleges.

To review the QEP topic concepts submitted by the SMU community thus far, click on the Feedback on Topics - QEP Blog link.


Several QEP Topics at Other Universities

Here is a partial list of QEP topics from other universities and colleges. Our SMU QEP topic does not need to be “brand new”—that is, it does not need to be different for the sake of being different. Rather, our QEP must arise from our own review and analysis of an appropriate plan for enhancing student learning at SMU.

  • Rice University: “Intellectual Development of Rice Undergraduates in Urban Houston.”
    This QEP aims to “prepare students to meet [the complex challenges facing our world] through structured civic engagement and community-based research and design focused on the city of Houston.”

  • University of Houston: “Learning Through Discovery.”
    This QEP “promotes a teaching and learning culture supportive of research in all disciplines for all undergraduate students. The initiative focuses on 1) providing research skills training and 2) expanding student research opportunities both on and off campus.”

  • University of Texas at Dallas: “Gateways to Excellence Through Math and Science (GEMS).”
    This QEP aims to “enhance the quality of student learning in mathematics and science by providing students with innovative, intensive, and active learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.”

  • University of Virginia: “Enhancing Student-Faculty Engagement”
    This QEP “seeks to affect student learning profoundly in two specific areas: making research a fundamental part of the student experience, and incorporating thoughtful public service into the curriculum.”

  • Baylor University: “Engaging Student Learners.”
    This QEP has two main components: “Engaged Learning Groups” in the first two years of the curriculum, and a focus on undergraduate research in the final two years of the student’s undergraduate career.

Submit a QEP Topic Idea or Suggestion

We invite you to submit a topic or suggestion for the SMU QEP. You can submit a topic or suggestion here.