Title
Exploring Learning Experiences In a Research Class
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
April 2017
Faculty Sponsor
Cara Gallegos
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the experiences of undergraduate nursing students’ learning in a research class.
Background: Many nursing students expect courses that focus on anatomy, physiology, and clinical skills, and students are prone to question the reasoning behind a course that does not fit these categories. This lack of interest can make it challenging for faculty to engage students and foster a motivated learning environment. Faculty need to arrange their course to encourage students to put forth more effort through different pedagogical approaches.
Methods: Phenomenology was the framework used in this study. After IRB approval, 10 students were interviewed about their learning experiences in an undergraduate research class.
Results: Preliminary data analysis revealed several emerging themes: Group Work (not first choice, learning from peers and professor, surprised by benefits), Understanding the Importance of Research (learning applicable/transferable skills for future classes), use of baby steps, and professor feedback.
Implications: Understanding more about the experiences of undergraduate nursing students’ learning in a research class is important. Faculty must choose pedagogical approaches that engage students in their learning. The more engaged a learner is the more potential for connecting on deeper level that can be applied and transferred to other experiences in life.
References
Ax, S., Kincade, E. (2001). Nursing students’ perceptions of research: usefulness, implementation and training. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 35 (2), 161-170.
Kohtz, C. (2011). Engaging students in an undergraduate research course. Nurse Educator, 36 (4), 150-154. doi:10.1097/NNE.0b013e31821fda9c
Kuh, G. D. (2009). The national survey of student engagement: Conceptual and empirical foundations. New Directions for Institutional Research, 2009(141), 5-20. doi:10.1002/ir.283
Kuh, G. D. (2004). The national survey of student engagement: Conceptual framework and overview of psychometric properties. Framework & Psychometric Properties, 2004, 1-26.
Recommended Citation
Simmons, Brittney, "Exploring Learning Experiences In a Research Class" (2017). 2017 Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Conference.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/hs_17/3