Undergraduate Research Experiences: Modeling Relationships Among Program Outcomes

• In Event: Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: College Student Learning and Outcomes Poster Session 2

Abstract

Positive student outcomes of undergraduate research experiences (UREs) have been well documented, however, many of these studies have neglected the logical relationship among outcomes, the processes through which they are achieved, and the contextual and participant factors at play in UREs. This study uses path analysis to explore these issues in two URE programs at a Midwestern university. A hypothesized model for the influence of URE on aspiration for graduate education was developed that contains understanding of research processes, research skills and research career awareness as immediate program outcome variables and research self-efficacy as a mediator. Results indicate that enhanced research skills directly impacts research self-efficacy, while enhanced self-efficacy, presentation skills and career awareness directly impact aspiration for graduate education.

Authors

• Omolola Adedokun, Purdue University

• Ann Bessenbacher, Purdue University

• Loran Carleton Parker, Purdue University

• Amy L. Childress, Purdue University

• Dorothy Teegarden, Purdue University

• Wilella Burgess, Purdue University