Using SoTL to enhance institutional programs: The case of an undergraduate research program.

Abstract

Undergraduate research experiences (UREs) in diverse contexts can provide “high impact” learning experiences (Kuh & Associates, 2008). Significant learning outcomes of effective UREs often include deeper conceptual understanding, learning how to critically assess existing literature, and acquiring research design and data analysis methods. Intellectual skill development outcomes include critical, creative and independent thinking, problem solving, and gains in communication and collaboration skills (Craney, et al., 2011; Lopatto, 2006; Lopatto & Tobias, 2010). To better understand and improve learning experiences in an immersive summer URE program in a large Canadian university, we investiga..