CC cannot win when it is up against prestigious undergraduate institutions and students doing post-doctoral work. Debby Levinson asked whether anyone has done projects in coordination with industry such that the company provides funding and works with the students and faculty to create projects that meet everyone's standards. Howard Drossman said he has done some of that, but it has not always been successful. Barbara Whitten asked how it is possible for students and faculty to carry on research on top of the course work they are already doing. Drossman said that the Block Plan is not structured for research.
Professors can teach research- oriented classes, but that's different from doing research.
Bertrand stated that when he came to CC seven years ago he didn't anticipate doing more than block-long research projects. Now, in newer faculty in particular, he sees a greater drive towards publication and more meaningful research, as well as developing relationships with students. But the faculty is not always in favor of more intensive research that may take one away from teaching. Lomas thought differently. When she first arrived at CC she didn't think the structure of the Block Plan allowed for research.