Reciprocal Benefits of Engaging Undergraduate Researchers in Conducting a Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose This project used a reflective practice framework to examine outcomes of an undergraduate student–faculty collaborative research project. The project examined benefits of undergraduate contributions to a large-scale systematic review and explore benefits to the students. Conclusions Throughout a large literature search process, two student researchers documented their reflections, including field notes and written reflections about their personal learning. Students completed searches of articles about speech and language impairments associated with right hemisphere damage. In the process, a repository of articles was created for further examination by a writing committee of the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences. Student accuracy in identifying potential articles that met inclusion criteria was measured by comparing student inclusions to those identified by committee members. Authors examined student reflection outcomes in the context of existing research about student–faculty collaborative research outcomes. Broad-based student outcomes included improvements in understanding the research process, collaboration skills, and confidence, along with opportunities to network/disseminate findings, focus career interests, and foster continued interest in research. Outcomes specific to the project included an increase in topic knowledge and increased accuracy in identifying articles that met inclusion criteria. The two undergraduate student researchers were able to search and identify potential articles for the systematic review. This provided an opportunity to become more proficient in searching databases and interpreting articles. Beyond direct contributions to the systematic review project, both undergraduates reported growth as student learners, researchers, and future clinicians. The students also report ongoing interests in research and considering academic careers.