Towards student autonomy in literature and field research
Date
2009
Authors
Willison, J.
Peirce, E.
Ricci, M.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Conference paper
Citation
Proceedings of the 32rd HERDSA Annual Conference, 2009: pp.483-491
Statement of Responsibility
John Willison, Eleanor Peirce and Mario Ricci
Conference Name
Higher Education Research and Development Society of Australasia Conference (32nd : 2009 : Northern Territory)
Abstract
Various studies have shown the advantages of undergraduate students participating in research, including improved performance, motivation to complete studies and progression rates to Higher Degrees by Research. A contemporary focus is on how these advantages may be realised for all undergraduate students within the curriculum. A small number of studies have measured tangible improvements based on objective data, showing the benefits of explicit research skill development in the curriculum on laboratory research skill and on exam grades. This retrospective correlational study involving 5 consecutive cohorts in First Year Human Biology courses found a surprising increase in correlation over the 5 year period between the skill measures of the final prescribed literature research task in the First Semester, and of the open-ended field-based research in Second Semester. One major implication is that the explicit development of student literature research skills may facilitate the development of some of the skills required for complex, open-ended field research.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
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Copyright 2009 HERDSA and the authors