University of Michigan-Flint

Faculty Name:  Sharman Siebenthal-Adams

Department:  Education

Campus Address:  430 French Hall

Email:  sharmans@umflint.edu

Phone:  810-420-6659

Project Description:  Through this project GSRA work will partner with faculty in more closely examining the area of 'comparative education' both here on the University of Michigan-Flint campus and at other universities within the United States and abroad. While UMF and the Education Department within SEHS have many different international projects and programs, a more defined and elaborate understanding of theory and practice surrounding the well developed field of 'comparative education' is in need of further examination due to recent advancement in the field.

Over the course of the last 20-40 years, 'comparative education' has continued to evolve and change in its examination of different issues in the field. Specifically at times the work has centered on geopolitics and governmental issues. At other times, 'comparative education' has largely concentrated on economics--both personal to families and children and at the national and regional level of various countries.

Recent work in the field has begun to argue that the most influential 'future' influence upon the field of 'comparative education' will be most closely influenced by a return to 'cultural' issues. That is, a growing body of research is forming around arguments over the impact of political, economical, and cultural influences. GSRA work would help faculty gather and examine current findings in the field of comparative education.

Semesters Desired:  Fall 2011 AND Winter 2012

GSRA Position Description:  Online and/or library search of text and journal articles, literature Reviews, organization (online) of digital images and videos, and other electronic research work related to this topic.

Specific Day/Time Requirements:  Flexible, assignments given on a weekly basis, due by the end of each week.

Special Requirements:  The GSRA should have strong computing (ease and familiarity with using online and electronic technology resources) and writing skills. Embedded within these skills is the requirement that a GSRA have clear communication skills and be able to work independently to advance project work.

Faculty are willing to work with and train GSRA

Graduate Students in These Programs May Apply:  Education (MA/Ed.S.); Social Sciences (MA)