Why research-based learning?
Why research-based learning?
Research-based learning at the University of Oldenburg
Research-based learning is one of the hallmarks of teaching at the University of Oldenburg. Learning objectives and formats that are inherent in research-based learning serve as a guideline for developing various degree programmes, modules and individual courses.
What characterises research-based learning?
Research-based teaching and learning is a constructivist-based approach to learning in which students learn through research. Lecturers support this process by teaching in a way that does not present topics as closed, but rather opens them up for students to research. Lecturers and students shape the learning process together.
Research-based learning...
- encourages a high level of student participation.
- builds on in students' interest in topics.
- enables collaborative learning.
- promotes the ability to independently develop problem-solving strategies necessary for both research activities and professional practice.
- promotes critical academic thinking through participating in the process of knowledge creation.
The research-based learning process
The research-based learning approach is based on the idea that academic education consists of thinking beyond the curriculum and the competencies contained therein, questioning established knowledge and becoming active in academic pursuits by developing an enquiring mind. When students learn through researching, they go through the characteristic stages of an open-ended research process, thereby developing their academic and professional competencies and expanding their knowledge independently. These stages include:
Developing a research question
Contextualising the question within current research on the basis of literature
Choosing a well-grounded theoretical approach and a research method
Conducting a methodological investigation or observation of a phenomenon
Evaluating and interpreting research data
Formulating and presenting results and critically reflecting on them
Research-based learning showcase
When students learn through research, they think beyond the curriculum, question established knowledge and develop an enquiring mind. There are many ways to achieve this. But where and how can you start?
On this page you will find information and inspiration regarding research-based learning – through both examples of course designs and student research.
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