Integrating Field Trips and Classroom Learning into a Capstone Undergraduate Research Experience

Abstract

Interim semester field trips provide a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to collect field data in support of their capstone research experience. We encourage students to participate in collaborative research projects prior to the semester for which they enroll in the capstone course. Students select a research project based on a field trip itinerary, submit a research proposal to faculty, conduct preliminary research prior to departure and collect data in the field during a January “Winterim” course. During the spring semester, students continue laboratory research, incorporating data collected in the field to complete their research project and prepare scientific presentations. Field trips provide an inherent mentoring system whereby faculty interact with students, and underclass students collaborate on capstone research projects. This approach facilitates learning by emphasizing preparation and planning, collaborative learning and integration of classroom knowledge into field research.