Creating Cross-Course Collaborative Research Projects

• In Event: Innovations in Teaching - 1

Abstract

This paper will report the results of a novel approach to linking Criminal Justice classes for the purpose of pursuing a common research project. Students in two sections of a School Violence class formed teams in order to conduct program evaluations of the anti-violence programs in ten K-12 schools in the Northeast. Students in a Criminal Justice Research Methods class acted as consultants for purposes of data collection and analysis, and students in a Theories of Crime (Criminology) class provided guidance on theorizing bullying using a variety of criminological theories. This effort puts into action several of the AAC&U’s High Impact Learning Practices, including Writing-Intensive courses, Collaborative Assignments, Undergraduate Research, and Community or Service Learning. The paper will involve an overview of the project’s design and process, including issues of communication, planning, and IRB approval, and will also include suggestions for future modifications and improvements.

Author

• Robert A. Brooks, Worcester State University