About LEADR
The Lab for Education & Advancement in Digital Research (LEADR), is a space where undergraduate and graduate students learn digital methods to create and communicate innovative social science research. Through class visits and individual consultations, students can learn, experiment, and build digital projects using a variety of tools and technologies.
We invite collaborators of all skill levels to participate in workshops, class projects, and research. Grounded in the History and Anthropology departments commitment to hands-on learning experiences, the lab engages in innovative projects and methods to enhance creativity and equip students with valuable skills in data mining and visualization, digital analysis and mapping, web-based presentations and storytelling, among many other technologies.
Opened in 2014, LEADR serves as a hub for students to develop digital skills in the context of historical and anthropological thinking. We provide a space for both undergraduate and graduate students to engage with digital tools and techniques. Students collaborate with peers, faculty members, and digital technology specialists to create innovative projects that go beyond conventional essay writing. The lab’s design is inspired by REAL (Research Engaged Active Learning) classrooms, promoting interactive learning and increased faculty-student engagement. It facilitates “flipped teaching” methods, where students work together on in-class assignments and collaborative projects. This environment encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration and introduces students to new platforms for creative expression.
Opening Hours
Summer 2025:
M-TH 10:00AM-3:00PM
Opening Hours:
Mondays-Thursdays: 10:00AM-5:00PM
Fridays: 10:00AM-1:00PM
The lab is closed on university holidays.
Contact Us
email: leadr@msu.edu
Location
112 Old Horticulture Building at 506 E. Circle Drive, East Lansing, MI 48824.
Community for Students
LEADR is a wonderful place to meet people, experiment, and learn new digital skills. Whether you are a digital novice or a computer expert, the lab offers support for research, class projects, and workshops for digital tools. We can equip you with the 21st century skills you’ll need for a competitive edge on the job market and beyond.
Digital Pedagogy & Innovation
We offer seamless integration of digital projects and assignments into the classroom and curriculum. We offer a variety of options from 1-day workshops, to week-long instruction, and scaffolded semester-long projects.
Community of Experts
Graduate and undergraduate assistants are available between 10-5 to help with student troubleshooting and check out equipment. We also offer tutorials, detailed instructional guides, a fully equipped AV and podcasting studio, and pedagogical support throughout the semester.
Calendar
We are open from 10-5 Monday through Thursday and until 1PM on Fridays. The calendar below outlines the events and classes taking place in the lab this semester.
You can browse the lab, AV studio and meeting room availability here