Embry-Riddle partners with private and public entities to assist in developing solutions to today's and tomorrow's aeronautical and aerospace problems. Here at the world's largest aviation-oriented university, our focus on applied research is unique.

Undergraduate students’ perceived barriers to research in online education

PI Emily Faulconer

This study explored differences in student interests, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers to undergraduate research across ERAU's distance and residential campuses.

Undergraduate research benefits students by strengthening skills, professional growth, and improving retention. Yet significant barriers exist, including low awareness of opportunities, restrictive cultural norms, and resource constraints. The proliferation of online education potentially increases barriers, both real and perceived. This study compared participation rate and perceived barriers between undergraduate distance and traditional students. Survey results indicated no significant differences in self-reported participation or interest in research.  Despite inherent structural limitations of online education, there were no significant differences in the respondents’ perceptions of access to opportunities, physical resources, or human resources. Significant differences were seen regarding awareness of research opportunities. While institution-specific moderating factors may influence results, this information is valuable for strategic planning with regard to increasing opportunities and awareness for undergraduates.

Research Dates

03/01/2018 to 05/01/2019

Researchers

  • Zachary P Dixon
    Department
    Department of Humanities & Communication
    Degrees
    Ph.D., University of South Florida
    M.A., B., University of North Carolina-Wilmington
  • John C. Griffith
    Department
    Department of Mathematics, Science and Technology
    Degrees
    Ph.D., University of North Texas
    M.S., Central Michigan University
    B.S., Southern Illinois University Carbondale
  • Donna  Roberts
    Department
    Dept of Human Factors, Safety and Social Sciences
    Degrees
    Ph.D., Northcentral University
    M.A.S., M.B.A., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    M.Ed., M., University of Oklahoma Norman Campus
    M.Ed., B.S., A.A., University of Maryland-University College

Categories: Faculty-Staff