The Relationship Between Undergraduate Research Participation and Educational Outcomes
Disciplines
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
Abstract (300 words maximum)
This study investigates the relationship between participating in funded undergraduate research programs and pre- and post-graduation success among students at Kennesaw State University (KSU). Prior research suggests that engaging in research activities during undergraduate studies contributes to critical thinking skills, hands-on experience, and professional networking, all of which are crucial for career advancement (Seymour et al., 2004). Participation in undergraduate research has been associated with higher rates of employment and acceptance into graduate programs (Seymour et al., 2004). Moreover, involvement in research fosters a sense of professional identity and improves communication skills, further contributing to long-term career success (Jones et al., 2019). This study utilizes retrospective data from KSU’s Offices of Undergraduate Research and Institutional Research to analyze pre-graduation success metrics, such as academic progression and retention. In addition, we used LinkedIn profiles to collect data on post-graduation outcomes, including employment status and further education. We analyzed data from 2019 to 2024, with a sample of 980 students who attended KSU and received funding from a KSU Office of Undergraduate Research program. The data includes several different funded programs, such as the First-Year Scholars Program, the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, and the Peer Ambassadors Program, providing a comprehensive view of students' participation in these programs. By assessing the influence of funded undergraduate research, the findings will provide insights to enhance research opportunities and support student success before and after graduation. Additionally, the results will explore whether participation in these research programs contributes to long-term outcomes, such as securing employment, pursuing further education, and overall career development. By examining these relationships, the study aims to provide evidence that can inform the development of initiatives designed to support student success during their academic journey and potentially foster meaningful post-graduation achievements.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
RCHSS - Psychological Science
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Amy Buddie
The Relationship Between Undergraduate Research Participation and Educational Outcomes
This study investigates the relationship between participating in funded undergraduate research programs and pre- and post-graduation success among students at Kennesaw State University (KSU). Prior research suggests that engaging in research activities during undergraduate studies contributes to critical thinking skills, hands-on experience, and professional networking, all of which are crucial for career advancement (Seymour et al., 2004). Participation in undergraduate research has been associated with higher rates of employment and acceptance into graduate programs (Seymour et al., 2004). Moreover, involvement in research fosters a sense of professional identity and improves communication skills, further contributing to long-term career success (Jones et al., 2019). This study utilizes retrospective data from KSU’s Offices of Undergraduate Research and Institutional Research to analyze pre-graduation success metrics, such as academic progression and retention. In addition, we used LinkedIn profiles to collect data on post-graduation outcomes, including employment status and further education. We analyzed data from 2019 to 2024, with a sample of 980 students who attended KSU and received funding from a KSU Office of Undergraduate Research program. The data includes several different funded programs, such as the First-Year Scholars Program, the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, and the Peer Ambassadors Program, providing a comprehensive view of students' participation in these programs. By assessing the influence of funded undergraduate research, the findings will provide insights to enhance research opportunities and support student success before and after graduation. Additionally, the results will explore whether participation in these research programs contributes to long-term outcomes, such as securing employment, pursuing further education, and overall career development. By examining these relationships, the study aims to provide evidence that can inform the development of initiatives designed to support student success during their academic journey and potentially foster meaningful post-graduation achievements.