Connecting expectations and experiences of students in a research-immersive degree

Wilson, A. , Howitt, S., Roberts, P., Åkerlind, G. and Wilson, K. (2013) Connecting expectations and experiences of students in a research-immersive degree. Studies in Higher Education, 38(10), pp. 1562-1576. (doi: 10.1080/03075079.2011.633163)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

Recent studies of undergraduates engaged in authentic research have suggested that students may benefit in a range of different ways from such experiences. However, these same studies have also shown significant variation in the extent and universality of these benefits. This article investigates the impact of one potential source of variation in perceived benefits: students' prior expectations of what research experiences might offer. The authors' surveys of students enrolling in a research-immersive undergraduate science degree indicate a range of anticipated benefits from or opportunities within the degree, only some of which address preparation for research or the development of generic research skills. The benefits that students report gaining from their involvement in the program appear to be constrained by these prior expectations. The authors suggest that these constraints may be connected to students' understanding of the nature of science and scientific research.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Wilson, Dr Anna
Authors: Wilson, A., Howitt, S., Roberts, P., Åkerlind, G., and Wilson, K.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education
Journal Name:Studies in Higher Education
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
ISSN:0307-5079
ISSN (Online):1470-174X
Published Online:31 January 2012

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record