This proposal is the first in a three-phase initiative aimed at generating planning tools and direct assessment measures for use on undergraduate research projects. The purpose of Phase I is (1) to identify specific experiences and skills that contributed to learning and competency in geoscience skill development, and (2) to identify the processes faculty engage in when designing their projects, categorize successful design elements, and codify assessment methods used on past projects. Information gained in the proposed study will inform the second phase of the initiative: development of a planning/assessment protocol for use in geoscience and field-based undergraduate research projects.
