How to Link Teaching and Research to Enhance Students’ Learning Outcomes: Thai University Experience

Abstract

In order to response Khon Kaen University policy on becoming the national research university, most of the lecturer implemented Teaching-Research Nexus (TRN) strategies to their practices. At the same time, the Thailand Qualification Framework (TQF), a guideline for program/course quality assurance, was launched. These two factors gave effect to classroom activities and assessment for learning change. The purpose of this study was to enhance the undergraduate students’ learning outcomes (under TQF) by integrated Research-based Learning (RBL) to the class. Students undertook two research tasks in the major course Academic Preparation Projects: Teaching English as a Foreign Language, offered by TESOL program. There were thirty-nine 2nd year students enrolled in this course during November 2011 to February 2012. Designing classroom activities by building a small-scale research activity into assignment was used in this course. The first task purpose was for students to learn how to investigate the different English classroom context. They were divided into eight group categorized by school size and location. Using more than one data collection techniques and presenting aligned with the framework; teaching methods, materials and assessment. The second task purpose was for students to design the English language materials and classroom activities rely on each group context. Continually, each group designed course & materials by applying their theoretical knowledge and implemented by using simulation. It was found that the three students’ learning outcomes; on Cognitive Skills (situational analysis, theoretical application, problem solving), on Interpersonal Skills and Responsibility (group working ability, responsibility, planning ability for their learning), and on Numerical Analysis, Communicative and Information Technology (communicative ability, information technology usage), were developed. In conclusions, RBL (which was one of the TRN strategies) could be applied in undergraduate class in order to enhance their learning outcomes effectively.