UROP Project

Collaboration, Practitioners’ Engagement, Smart Cities
Research Mentor: Tian Luo,
Department, College, Affiliation: Askew School of Public Administration, Social Sciences and Public Policy
Contact Email: tluo@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Public Administration and Policy; Statistics
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6 hours,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

Many studies have analyzed the challenges and benefits of collaborations between social science scholars and practitioners across various sectors, including government, non-profits, and businesses. As technology and society become increasingly intertwined, the need for more effective collaborations between scientific and engineering researchers and practitioners grows. However, there is still a significant gap in understanding how these collaborations can effectively connect technology and social aspects to benefit communities.

To address these research challenges, this study evaluates whether and how collaborations between scientific and engineering researchers and practitioners in the NSF Smart and Connected Communities (S&CC) program stimulate smart technology-related activities among practitioners. It investigates the extent of influence the S&CC program has on practitioners’ engagement with smart technologies. The study focuses on the impact of S&CC program participation on both NGOs, assessing their activities in learning, adopting, and promoting smart technologies, and government agencies, evaluating the potential increase in smart technology initiatives, policies, and collaborations. The emphasis is on tangible actions that demonstrate an active engagement in smart technology integration and advocacy.

This study employs event study analysis to assess changes in smart technology activities among NGOs and government agencies before and after joining the S&CC program. It also identifies factors influencing the program's effectiveness in enhancing smart technology efforts in non-academic institutions. The findings will provide insights into the program's role in smart technology engagement, smart city development, public sector technology integration, and will inform academic researchers, practitioners, and funding agencies on designing collaborations that effectively connect science, technology, and society.

Research Tasks: Conducting Text Analysis and Basic Data Analysis


Skills that research assistant(s) may need: The research assistant is required to thoroughly review each program's abstract and identify key information. This information will be systematically coded into Excel tables. If possible, the research assistant is recommended to perform some basic regression analyses in R programme.

Mentoring Philosophy

In my role as a mentor, I aim to cultivate an environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and collaborative learning. My research focuses on bridging the gap between academia and practice, and I apply this same philosophy to mentoring. I believe in identifying and building upon each mentee’s unique strengths, guiding them to take ownership of their work, and promoting accountability. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, I encourage mentees to explore complex problems, ask critical questions, and learn from their experiences, including mistakes. I emphasize the importance of connecting theoretical knowledge with practical application, and I am committed to creating a supportive space where mentees feel empowered to engage deeply with their work, contributing to both their personal growth and the advancement of smart technologies in real-world contexts.

Additional Information


Link to Publications


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