Global Learning Initiatives for
​the Development of Engineers
Kirsten A. Davis, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator

GLIDE Research Group Mission
The GLIDE research group studies ways to prepare students for success in identifying and solving real engineering problems in real work environments. Our research explores the intentional design and assessment of global engineering programs, student development through experiential learning, and approaches for teaching and assessing systems thinking skills.
GLIDE Community
​Our research group meets regularly to discuss research topics and provide feedback to each other on ongoing work. We spend our time together setting goals, celebrating accomplishments, and learning about new topics based on each member’s interests. 

Recent Publications

Developing indices to study engineers' interest, confidence, and experience with global engineering work activities
Arinze, L. C.*, Tort, J., & Davis, K. A. (2026). Developing indices to study engineers’ interest, confidence, and experience with global engineering work activities. Journal of Engineering Education, 115(3), e70067. http://doi.org/10.1002/jee.70067
Examining Data Richness in Undergraduate Students’ Reflections: A Linguistic Analysis of Three Data Collection Methods
Davis, K. A., & Wrobetz, A.* (2026). Examining data richness in undergraduate students’ reflections: A linguistic analysis of three data collection methods. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 25, 1-20. http://doi.org/10.1177/16094069261462363

New RIEF Project Kicked off in Fall 2026

Dr. Davis has a new NSF-funded project starting this fall in collaboration with Dr. Courtney Pfluger at Northeastern University! This project will explore the formation of socially responsible chemical engineers using a survey and interviews with current students. We will explore how curricular and co-curricular experiences inform students' development of professional responsibility. Dr. Davis will serve as the research mentor for this RIEF project.