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Research in Language Instruction

The LRC has partnered with the Searle Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning, Northwestern's Institutional Review Board Office, and Research Computing and Data Services (NUIT) to offer a professional development series focused on supporting and enhancing scholarly research for faculty in language programs. This series aims to provide guidance on best practices for conducting research in language instruction, navigating IRB processes, and leveraging data services and technology to strengthen research design and outcomes.

                                                  SESSIONS AND RESOURCES
NAVIGATING ETHICS AND DATA: INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT FOR LANGUAGE RESEARCH

This session focuses on two key areas that can help faculty advance their projects: a) the processes and institutional resources available to ensure that their research meets institutional review standards; and b) the available assistance for data analysis and visualization once data is collected.

📅  February 18, 2026 | 4-5pm CT | Zoom

Presenters: César Hoyos Álvarez, PhD., Assistant Professor of Instruction in Spanish (Department of Spanish and Portuguese); Emilio LehoucqPhD., Data Scientist - Research Data Services (Data Science, Statistics and Visualization-NUIT); and Laura LoebPhD., Senior IRB Analyst - Social & Behavioral Research (Institutional Review Board Office)

Presentation slides and session recording will be posted shortly after the session. 

LITERATURE REVIEWS AS INSPIRATION FOR TEACHING AND RESEARCH

This session explores why literature reviews matter and examine practical approaches to crafting your own. We’ll also review AI-based tools that can streamline your process and highlight key NU Libraries resources to support your research. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise or discover new strategies, this session will provide practical insights for everyone.

📅  January 21, 2026 | 4-5pm CT | Zoom

Presenter: Denise DranePhD., Senior Associate Director of Research and Innovation, Searle Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning

PRESENTATION SLIDES

SESSION RECORDING
You must sign in Panopto with your Northwestern credentials. 

DOING RESEARCH ON YOUR TEACHING: RESOURCES, TIPS, AND SUPPORT AT NORTHWESTERN

In this session on the scholarship of teaching and learning participants learn about frameworks for instructors interested in delving into research projects in more structured or systematic ways. The session includes an overview of Northwestern University Libraries resources (i.e., subject librarians, scholarly research services and visualization services); AI-based tools for literature searching (i.e., Consensus); IRB policies at Northwestern; Searle Center services for both novice and seasoned researchers; funding opportunities on our campus and beyond; and alternative opportunities to publish faculty work.

📅  June 6, 2025 | 12-1pm CT | Zoom

Presenter: Denise Drane, PhD., Senior Associate Director of Research and Innovation, Searle Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning

PRESENTATION SLIDES

NU SUBJECT LIBRARIANS

IRB EDUCATION PAGE

SESSION RECORDING
You must be signed in your Northwestern Zoom account before clicking on the link or you can sign in through the SSO icon to have access to the recording: