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Transforming tertiary science education: improving learning during lectures

This two-year project at Massey University and the University of Canterbury began by using perception and concept s ... Show more
This two-year project at Massey University and the University of Canterbury began by using perception and concept surveys before and after undergraduate science courses to measure students' attitudes towards science as well as their knowledge. Using these data and classroom observations of student engagement and corroborating focus groups, the research team worked with lecturers to create interventions to enhance student engagement and learning in those courses. Results show several positive changes related to these interventions and they suggest several recommendations for lecturers and course coordinators. The recommendations include: (1) make learning outcomes clear, both for the lecturer and the students; (2) use interactive activities to improve engagement, develop deeper levels of thinking, and improve learning; (3) intentionally foster 'expert-like thinking' amongst students in the first few semesters of the degree program; and (4) be flexible because one size does not fit all and contextual events are beyond anyone's control.
Excerpt from publication. Show less

Authors: Kennedy, Ben; Brogt, Erik; Jordens, Zoe; Jolley, Alison ... [+] Show more

Date: 2013

Geographic subjects: New Zealand; Oceania

Resource type: Report, paper or authored book

Series name: Research report (Ako Aotearoa)

Subjects: Teaching and learning; Higher education; Research ... [+] Show more

Transforming tertiary science education: improving learning during lectures