Project Investigator(s): Gail Hammond, Assistant Professor of Teaching, Department of Food, Nutrition & Health, Faculty of Land & Food Systems
Project Description
This project explores changes in students’ perceptions as self-directed learners from year 2 through year 4 in selected Food, Nutrition & Health courses in the Faculty of Land & Food Systems. Early in their academic program, students are exposed to self-directed learning (SDL) through learning activities that develop and strengthen their SDL skills. The fourth-year students need to be prepared to enter the workplace or graduate school with a healthy attitude toward and proficiency in SDL. This project characterizes the trajectories of students’ perceptions as self-directed learners with the goal of informing and incorporating greater diversity in SDL learning activities.
Research Questions
1. Is there a changing pattern in students’ perceptions as SLD as they progress through their academic program?
2. What is the primary change in perceptions? What is the degree of change from second to fourth year?
Impact on teaching and learning at UBC
Learning about the mindset and growth trajectories (academic, personal) of undergraduate students with regard to multiple dimensions of self-directed learning will contribute to an overall better understanding of transitions current UBC students experience as they progress through their academic programs. This information will provide evidence to teachers in all disciplines who are considering incorporating elements of self-directed learning into their course designs such that they value the skills gained through SDL learning activities (e.g., critical thinking, problem-solving, communication) and foster a positive attitude toward this way of learning.