Research Connected to Community Questions
Business students presented market research projects developed around questions submitted by local small-business mentors. Topics included customer awareness, service preferences, communication channels, and opportunities to improve the customer experience.
Teams created a research question, reviewed available information, designed a small survey or interview plan, and organized findings using spreadsheets and visual summaries.
The strongest teams did not just show a chart. They connected the evidence to a decision a small organization could actually make.
Natalie Brooks, Business Faculty
From Data to Recommendation
Students were required to explain the limits of their research and avoid presenting small samples as universal conclusions. Final presentations included key findings, evidence, assumptions, and practical recommendations.
Faculty evaluated the projects for research design, analysis, writing, visual communication, teamwork, and the ability to respond professionally to questions.
Mentor Feedback
Community mentors provided feedback on clarity, relevance, and whether a recommendation could realistically be implemented by a small organization with limited time and budget.
Selected projects will be revised for student portfolios. The college plans to continue community-based projects while protecting private business information and keeping assignments appropriate for the course level.