Submitting Campus
Worldwide
Department
Mathematics, Science and Technology
Document Type
Article
Publication/Presentation Date
2024
Abstract/Description
The advancement of technology has led to an increase in undergraduate students pursuing degrees online. The translation of undergraduate research to the online environment is relatively new, though gaining momentum, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mentoring is a key undergraduate research support, particularly for those engaged online, as it fosters a supportive environment for online students to develop their skills and knowledge in their field of study. This study aims to explore the positive impacts of mentoring undergraduate research for fully online students. A single case study methodology was used, with interview data collected from four research mentees completing their degrees fully online. While this study is exploratory and further research with a larger sample size is necessary, the preliminary findings suggest that virtual mentoring can lead to a stronger sense of belonging, enhanced understanding of research processes, professional development (including career path and transferable skills), and continuous personal growth. These results highlight the importance of providing research mentoring opportunities to online students.
Publication Title
OJDLA
Publisher
OJDLA
Scholarly Commons Citation
Faulconer, E., Terwilliger, B., Deters, R., & George, K. (2024). Guiding Undergraduate Researchers in the Virtual World: Mentoring Experiences of Globally Distributed Students. OJDLA, 27(1). Retrieved from https://commons.erau.edu/publication/2204
Included in
Academic Advising Commons, Higher Education and Teaching Commons, Online and Distance Education Commons