Abstract Detail

Are We Having A Broader Impact?

Singh, Santokh [1].

Undergraduate Research: Assessing the Opportunities, Challenges, and the Impact on Student Learning.

One of the key action items outlined in the recently published, Vision and Change for Undergraduate Biology Education suggests that research experiences should be an integral component of undergraduate biology education for all students. In the last few years, undergraduate research (UR) is being considered as an enriched educational experience for biology students in some educational and research institutions. Based on an extensive survey of undergraduate plant biology students, faculty and administrators at the University of British Columbia, I have identified key challenges and opportunities for students to engage in UR experiences. I have also investigated the assessment of some UR practices, such as open-ended research projects and short presentations similar to the "Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition" for graduate students. The preliminary results from two third year plant physiology courses indicate that UR experiences have improved students' learning and biological expertise. This presentation will encourage an open discussion on the broader impact of UR in various institutions.

Broader Impacts:

1 - University of British Columbia, Department of Botany, 6270 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada

Keywords:
Assessment
Broader impact
Open-ended research projects
Undergraduate research.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: SY02
Location: Delaware B/Hyatt
Date: Monday, July 9th, 2012
Time: 10:45 AM
Number: SY02006
Abstract ID:957