Faculty Mentoring of Research University: Causal Effect on Undergraduate Research Self-Efficacy

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 10:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Catalysts for Success: Novel Approaches to Student Support and Achievement (Table 8)

Abstract

Undergraduate faculty mentoring (UFM) benefits to achieve undergraduate academic performance and development. However, the causal effect and relationship between UFM and research experience outcome have not been well understood, especially in Chinese comprehensive research universities. Using a three-times longitudinal design (N = 421) and a first-difference model, this study investigates the causal effect of UFM on research self-efficacy, thereby enhancing understanding of impact on student success. Results show significant positive effects of faculty mentoring on research self-efficacy, especially in terms of research support. Furthermore, the first-difference model addressed the 50% upward bias of the OLS model and provided a more unbiased estimate. Implications that use UFM assessment to inform institutional policy and practice through equity are discussed.

Authors

• Yisi Zhan, Tsinghua University

• Yang Dang, Tsinghua University

• Yanzhuo Zhu, Tsinghua University

• Yu Zhang, Tsinghua University