The Power of Reflection: Transformative Learning in Undergraduate Research

Authors: Anna Krinsky-Adinolfi, Keying Li, Karen Lin, Grant Gorr

Field of Study: Nursing; Global Public Health

Program Affiliation: Nursing Undergraduate Research Seminar

Faculty Mentors: Judith Quaranta

Easel: 98

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Undergraduate research is an extremely impactful educational practice. While participation is common and structured, reflection is often overlooked. Reflections on participation in an undergraduate research immersion course focusing on development of research skills, lessons learned, and the role of mentorship were analyzed. Based on Braun and Clarke (2006), thematic analysis was conducted on student reflections submitted from 2020-2024. A thematic analysis of 94 student reflections from 2020-2024 revealed that the most significant impact from taking the course was the enhancement of learning experience through community engagement (76.6%). Additionally, students reported a better understanding of research methods and skills (79.8%) and the desire to continue research after completing the course (60.6%) and pursue a higher education after graduation (31.9%). Immersion in a research-intensive course is an effective educational strategy to increase undergraduate interest in pursuing additional experiences in scholarship and in community engagement.