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Updated: Jun 7, 2025

Project-Based Learning Guidelines for Health Sciences Students: An Analysis with Data Mining and Qualitative Techniques
Published on: December 9, 2022
Local Application of Scientific Research Practices Builds Student Engagement in Science and Environmental Health
David Jones1, Anna Kiley1, Michael Coe2
1School of Public and Community Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT.
The Research Education on Air and Cardiovascular Health (REACH) Program uses teacher-led research to boost student interest in science and STEM careers. Thematic analysis of student feedback revealed valuable insights beyond standard surveys.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science Education
- STEM Outreach Programs
- Science Education Research
Background:
- The Research Education on Air and Cardiovascular Health (REACH) Program engages high school students in scientific research.
- The program aims to enhance understanding and interest in science and science careers.
- Teacher involvement is central to facilitating student research experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the REACH Program in achieving its educational goals.
- To explore the utility of mixed-method approaches, particularly thematic analysis of free-response data.
- To identify unanticipated student-centered information derived from qualitative feedback.
Main Methods:
- Utilized mixed-method approaches for program evaluation.
- Employed surveys with both fixed-response and free-response questions for students.
- Conducted thematic analysis on student written responses to free-response questions over a 3-4 year period.
Main Results:
- Thematic analysis of free-response questions yielded unanticipated, student-centered information.
- Qualitative data provided insights not captured by fixed-response survey items.
- Consistent themes emerged from student feedback over multiple years.
Conclusions:
- Thematic analysis of open-ended student responses is a valuable tool for evaluating STEM outreach programs.
- Qualitative data enriches understanding of student engagement and program impact.
- STEM outreach programs can effectively foster interest in science and environmental education.
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