Case Study: Implementation and evaluation of a team-based authentic research project module for large cohorts

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences Education
• Undergraduate Research Training
• Pedagogical Innovation in Science

Background:

• Final-year projects are crucial for developing research skills in undergraduate biochemical and biomedical programs.
• Large student cohorts can strain resources, making traditional supervised research projects unfeasible.
• Innovative teaching models are needed to deliver effective research experiences for large student groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a team-based, final-year research module for a transnational joint program.
• To assess the feasibility and student perception of a large-cohort undergraduate research model.
• To share best practices for designing and delivering final-year research projects.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was used to implement and evaluate a team-based research module.
• The 'Investigative Skills' module was piloted and subsequently run annually for over 100 students.
• A two-week intensive block was dedicated to the research component, with student feedback collected via questionnaires.

Main Results:

• The majority of students found the research projects authentic, interesting, and appropriate.
• Performing experimental work was the most favored aspect of the module.
• Over 80% of students found teamwork conducive to achieving goals, with an ideal team size of 3-5 students.
• Students desired more than the allocated two weeks for practical research time.

Conclusions:

• The team-based research module provides a sustainable model for authentic dissertation research for large undergraduate cohorts.
• Student feedback indicates high engagement and perceived value in team-based, hands-on research experiences.
• The model effectively addresses the challenges of large cohort sizes in delivering impactful research training.