Enhancing students’ research experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract:

Here we compared students’ research experience between this year’s pandemic situation and last year’s regular condition. We aim to assess how to effectively enhance students’ research experiences in different environments (lab research vs. virtual learning). We worked with three high school and two undergraduate students without strong science background to utilize advanced environmental sensors and statistical tools to conduct innovative projects. The students include two undergraduate students at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and three local high school students in Indianapolis (through Project SEED), four of these five students are from underrepresented groups. The students conducted lab-based research last year by conducting tree ring cellulose extraction and vapor-based isotope measurements. This year, due to the pandemic and the research work is through virtual learning. The students performed data extraction from primary literature and consequent data analysis. All the students expressed strong satisfaction with their authentic research experience regardless the research environments. This experience showed us the possibility to provide quality research experiences for students even during challenging times.