The Nuts and Bolts: Constructing a Methodologically Sound SoTL Experiment
Track
Non-research Project / About SoTL
Abstract
Empirical features of SoTL projects are essential for creating trustworthy knowledge about teaching and learning. However, achieving all the empirical features for a reliable and valid SoTL project can be difficult because we often lack the control, random assignment, perfectly matched conditions, and other necessary experimental controls of trustworthy results.
In this presentation, I will explore methods for achieving at least some of the necessary empirical control in SoTL projects. I use my own recent SoTL project as an example of striving to meet “benchmarks” for empirical SoTL work that were proposed by Wilson-Doenges & Gurung (2013). I did achieve some experimental control, but there were also secondary variables that I could not control. I present my SoTL project as a design example and hope that you can learn from my mistakes. I share examples of missteps and misfortunes encountered when designing such a SoTL project and offer tips for meeting the benchmarks of a methodologically sound SoTL project. I hope to open conversation about the value of SoTL work when all experimental control is not possible.
Session Format
Poster Session
Location
Room 113
Recommended Citation
Kipp, Katherine, "The Nuts and Bolts: Constructing a Methodologically Sound SoTL Experiment" (2016). SoTL Commons Conference. 83.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/sotlcommons/SoTL/2016/83
The Nuts and Bolts: Constructing a Methodologically Sound SoTL Experiment
Room 113
Empirical features of SoTL projects are essential for creating trustworthy knowledge about teaching and learning. However, achieving all the empirical features for a reliable and valid SoTL project can be difficult because we often lack the control, random assignment, perfectly matched conditions, and other necessary experimental controls of trustworthy results.
In this presentation, I will explore methods for achieving at least some of the necessary empirical control in SoTL projects. I use my own recent SoTL project as an example of striving to meet “benchmarks” for empirical SoTL work that were proposed by Wilson-Doenges & Gurung (2013). I did achieve some experimental control, but there were also secondary variables that I could not control. I present my SoTL project as a design example and hope that you can learn from my mistakes. I share examples of missteps and misfortunes encountered when designing such a SoTL project and offer tips for meeting the benchmarks of a methodologically sound SoTL project. I hope to open conversation about the value of SoTL work when all experimental control is not possible.
