Chemical-Engineers-in-Training: Influence of Climate, Communication, and Culture on Group and Individual Productivity and Learning

• In Event: STEM in Graduate Education

Abstract

This study is a qualitative inquiry of graduate students in a chemical engineering lab, of their perceptions of influences on their learning and goals, and of the collaborative tasks needed to accomplish the lab’s agenda. Grounding the study were literatures on situated learning, group processes, and graduate student development. Data came from individual interviews, observations, and artifacts. Findings coalesced in three themes: in-person communication seemed critical for group productivity and learning at both the group and individual level; the lab’s climate influenced individuals’ learning and commitment to research; and cultural differences could impede progress in becoming fully participating lab members. Contributions include how individual learning is situated and intertwined with group collaborative processes and how students acquire knowledge amidst challenges.

Authors

• John H. Park, The University of Texas - Austin

• Hyung-Sok (Nathan) Choe, The University of Texas - Austin

• Alexander K. Forbis, The Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

• Diane L. Schallert, The University of Texas - Austin