The pupose of this paper is to emphasize the importance of integrating Ytands on" research into the undergraduate criminal justice cum-culunt. Between Spring 1986 and Summer 1988, University of Wisconsin, Parkside criminal justice students participated in a unique Yearning by doing" experience conducting gang research in their own contntunity. Shrdents were exposed to a variety of skills ranging from social scientific research methods, statistical analysis, and contputer applications. In addition, they learned about the politics and ethics of doing research, self-discipline, professionalisni, team work, and decision-making.