Transformative Teaching via Workshop Based Approach in Scientific Communication

• Main Authors: Zainab, Ngaini, Rafeah, Wahi
• Other Authors: Mohamad Kadim, Suaidi
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: UNIMAS Publisher 2023
• Subjects: L Education (General); LB2300 Higher Education
• Online Access: http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/41257/1/Transformative%20Teaching.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/41257/

The project was designed based on the Course Learning Outcomes (CLO) analysis (2017-2018) and feedbacks from Final Year Project (FYP) supervisors on weak research proposal writing skills of FYP students. The initiatives involved transforming the typical class lecture into an interactive scientific communication session. Students were exposed to real scientific communication via workshop-style delivery and projectoriented problem-based learning (PoPBL) on proposal writing projects as well as trainstorming/discussion activities during weekly meetings. The initiative is eliminating the traditional lecture and end-of-semester assignment practices. The course delivery was designed by conducting three workshops namely 1-Research Proposal Writing, 2-Research Methodology & Ethics, and 3-Effective Research Presentation. The feedbacks from the students after each workshop was overwhelming. Peer group brainstorming and discussion were conducted in the respective weekly classes, applying the concepts and tips delivered during the workshops. Students’ progress on research proposal writeup was assessed in stages throughout the course to provide immediate feedback for continuous improvement by students. Instructors’ feedback was discussed in groups to encourage students to learn from their peers. The final proposal and poster presentation were evaluated after workshop 3, where the students presented their proposals effectively. The course delivery style has remarkably improved the CLO achievements as compared to the past 2-year CLO achievements. Lots of positive feedback were received from students through the course evaluation survey and student’s final reflection on their learning.