Talking About [X]

Ramsay, S. W. and Struan, A. (2016) Talking About [X]. 13th Annual QAA Enhancement Themes Conference, Edinburgh, UK, 09 Jun 2016.

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Abstract

We present research on the effectiveness of the first two years of our campus-wide, multidisciplinary undergraduate research conference, Let's Talk About [X], and journal, [X]position, wherein we asseess the impact of research engagement opportunities for undergraduates as they transition out of university. Engagement in undergraduate research is one of the key determiners in continued academic success and development into advanced study (Laursen et al., 2012), but that research is often overlooked outside the boundaries of course assessment. We sought to allow students a new platform to present their scholarship. Abstracts were invited from all undergraduates, and speakers were drawn from all years of undergraduate study (mostly Honours). Most topics related to dissertation / project work. Main selection criteria were evidence of an original contribution to knowledge, and that they could engage the educated public in accessible discussion. To aid in transition from undergraduate to nascent academic, each speaker was paired with a postgraduate mentor. In our research, feedback indicated that: undergraduate opportunities to engage in research are few; a small cohort in each class would very much appreciate more opportunities to help the transition to postgraduate research; and that the mentoring process is heralded as a significant and novel strength in the conference process.

Item Type:Conference or Workshop Item
Status:Published
Refereed:No
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Struan, Dr Andrew and Ramsay, Dr Scott
Authors: Ramsay, S. W., and Struan, A.
Subjects:L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
College/School:University Services > Learning and Teaching Services Division
University Services > Student and Academic Services > Academic Services
Research Group:Learning Enhancement and Academic Development Service (LEADS)

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