Stepping around the brick wall: Overcoming student obstacles in methods courses

Angela L. Bos, Monica C. Schneider

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

36 Scopus citations

Abstract

Many political science departments offer, and increasing numbers of them require, undergraduate research methods courses. At the same time, studies cite high levels of student anxiety about such courses. Utilizing survey data from both students who take and faculty who teach methods, we conduct an analysis that compares the barriers students and faculty independently perceive. Next, we share results from our own exploratory assessment technique, which evaluates our success in increasing student confidence with regard to conducting research. Finally, we present specific exercises and assignments which can serve as solutions to student barriers. We argue that conscious reflection as to where students lack confidence and assessment of our efforts allows instructors to approach teaching methods more effectively.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)375-383
Number of pages9
JournalPS - Political Science and Politics
Volume42
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2009

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Stepping around the brick wall: Overcoming student obstacles in methods courses'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this