Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

S5e6: How Can Research Lead To Student Success?, Ron Lisnet, John Volin, Issac Cardello

The Maine Question

Improving student retention and success is a key priority at the University of Maine and University of Maine System. To support this goal, the Harold Alfond Foundation earmarked $20 million of its transformative $240 million gift to the System for new efforts to keep students enrolled and support their academic growth.

One of these new initiatives involves getting students involved in discovery and knowledge creation early in their studies through new research learning experience (RLE) courses launched this year at UMaine and it’s regional campus, the University of Maine at Machias. These tuition-free, one-credit courses offer a variety of experiential …

S4e8 : What Does The Future Look Like For Manufacturing In Maine?, Ron Lisnet, John Bedling

The Maine Question

Manufacturing — making products and adding value to raw materials — plays a crucial role in Maine’s economic well-being, but the industry is changing.

Pulp and paper production has declined over the years as several mills have shuttered. Emerging firms are smaller than they once were, and many now use high-tech, precision manufacturing. Despite its alterations, however, the manufacturing economy in Maine continues to expand and evolve.

Companies eager to fuel or participate in industry growth face challenges in their efforts to create new products, implement cutting-edge technology and teach their existing workforce new skills. Fortunately, the Advanced Manufacturing Center, …

S4e5 : How Do You Teach Political Science Without Being Political?, Ron Lisnet, Mark Brewer

The Maine Question

Mark Brewer has been particularly busy the last few years. In addition to his research and courses, the University of Maine political science professor is a respected go-to source for reporters seeking context about political events and the political climate.

Recently, Brewer found time to talk with podcast host Ron Lisnet about the role of politics in our lives. In Episode 5 of Season 4, Brewer explains ranked choice voting, the Electoral College, and the filibuster, and he shares how he teaches politics without getting political.