Using Open-Ended Survey Questions to Understand Student Perceptions of Internship and Research Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Experiential Learning Outcomes Assessment (San Diego)

Abstract

Internships and research engagement are essential high-impact experiences for undergraduate college students that lead to higher levels of student success. Little research represents the experiences of historically underserved students in internships and research at Baccalaureate/Master’s universities. This study investigated student engagement in and student perceptions of internship and research experiences during the pandemic. Participants in academic internships (n = 195) or research experiences with faculty (n= 176) at a large, minority-serving state institution completed a survey with close-ended and open-ended questions. Findings indicated that student highly valued faculty availability, communication, and support. Qualitative findings center the voices of students, representing an effective strategy to engage students in sharing their experiences and ultimately promote meaningful and equitable change in educational practice.

Authors

• Kimberly Reynolds Kelly, California State University - Long Beach

• Claudine Maloles, California State University - Long Beach

• Savannah Neves, California State University - Long Beach

• Victoria Min