In this episode, we dive into a research paper that explores how universities can better integrate research into education, drawing on examples from Sweden and Singapore. Hosts Zaynab and Yassin discuss the Healey model, a framework for strengthening the link between teaching and research, and how universities can create learner-centered approaches to empower students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The episode highlights successful examples, from medical students conducting research in Singapore to psychology students organizing conferences in Sweden, showcasing how institutions are closing the gap between theory and practice.
Tune in to learn how these innovative approaches are shaping the future of higher education, offering personalized pathways for students, and creating a more fulfilling learning experience. Whether you're a student, educator, or policy maker, this episode provides valuable insights into how research-integrated learning can transform higher education.
Link to the publication: https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1394678/FULLTEXT01.pdf
Chapters
In this episode, we dive into a research paper that explores how universities can better integrate research into education, drawing on examples from Sweden and Singapore. Hosts Zaynab and Yassin discuss the Healey model, a framework for strengthening the link between teaching and research, and how universities can create learner-centered approaches to empower students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The episode highlights successful examples, from medical students conducting research in Singapore to psychology students organizing conferences in Sweden, showcasing how institutions are closing the gap between theory and practice.
Tune in to learn how these innovative approaches are shaping the future of higher education, offering personalized pathways for students, and creating a more fulfilling learning experience. Whether you're a student, educator, or policy maker, this episode provides valuable insights into how research-integrated learning can transform higher education.
Link to the publication: https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1394678/FULLTEXT01.pdf
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Yassin:
Hey there. Ready for a deep dive into something that impacts us all, especially lifelong learners like you? I'm right. Today, we're tackling how universities can better connect education and research.
Zaynab:
Okay.
Yassin:
And trust me
Zaynab:
Yeah.
Yassin:
It's way more interesting than it might sound.
Zaynab:
It really is.
Yassin:
Uh-huh.
Zaynab:
This isn't just about dusty textbooks and labs. Right. It's about giving you, the learner, a much richer and more relevant experience.
Yassin:
Okay. So tell me more about why this matters. I have a feeling this isn't just about abstract theories.
Zaynab:
You're absolutely right. Think of it this way. We live in what experts call a knowledge society.
Yassin:
Mhmm.
Zaynab:
Information is everywhere, changing constantly. Right?
Yassin:
Totally. It's like trying to take a sip of water from a fire hose sometimes.
Zaynab:
Exactly. And that's why it's not enough to just memorize facts anymore.
Yassin:
Right.
Zaynab:
What matters is knowing how to be to learn, how to sift through information, how to analyze it critically Yeah. And even challenge them.
Yassin:
Okay. That resonates. I'm constantly bombarded with new information. Just this morning, I was reading 3 different articles about well, it doesn't even matter. The point is I can relate to that feeling of information overload.
Zaynab:
And that's where research comes in.
Yassin:
Okay.
Zaynab:
It's not just about discovering new things. It's about developing those essential skills. Right. Critical thinking, problem solving, asking the right questions.
Yassin:
So it's like research is a skill set in itself.
Zaynab:
Precisely. And what's fascinating is that universities are in a prime position to teach these skills by better connecting what's taught in the classroom with what's being discovered in research labs.
Yassin:
Makes sense. Right. But isn't that already happening? Don't professors do their own research?
Zaynab:
They do.
Yassin:
Okay.
Zaynab:
Many academics wear 2 hats Right. Teaching and conducting research. But and this is where it gets interesting. The incentives to bridge those two worlds aren't always there.
Yassin:
Interesting. So you have these brilliant lines doing fascinating research, but it's not always making its way into the classroom. Where's the disconnect?
Zaynab:
Well, this research paper we're diving into written by experts from leading universities in Sweden and Singapore, by the way, highlights some real world examples. Okay. For instance, at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden. Funding models sometimes prioritize securing research grants over teaching.
Yassin:
So a professor might feel pressure to focus on publishing research to get funding even if they're passionate about teaching and want to integrate their work into their courses.
Zaynab:
Exactly. And while research funding is crucial, it can create a situation where teaching might take a back seat. The paper also looks at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, which uses a two track faculty system.
Yassin:
Interesting.
Zaynab:
One for teaching focused professors and one for research focused professors.
Yassin:
Well, it sounds organized. I can see how that could accidentally create a gap between what's being taught and the latest research.
Zaynab:
Precisely. Even with the best intentions. The way universities are structured can sometimes get in the way of a truly integrated approach.
Yassin:
Okay. So how do we bridge that gap? Because for someone like me, who's always hungry to learn, knowing that there's cutting edge research happening but not always accessible is frustrating. How do we bring those worlds closer together?
Zaynab:
That's the $1,000,000 question, isn't it? And the paper actually offers a framework for tackling this challenge.
Yassin:
K.
Zaynab:
It's called the Healey model.
Yassin:
The Healey model. Okay. I'm intrigued. Break it down for me.
Zaynab:
Imagine a staircase.
Yassin:
Okay. At the bottom, you have professors simply mentioning research findings in their lectures.
Zaynab:
Right.
Yassin:
That's a start, but it's pretty basic.
Zaynab:
Mhmm.
Yassin:
As you climb the stairs, you encounter higher levels of integration.
Zaynab:
So what would be a step or 2 up from simply mentioning research? Give me an example.
Yassin:
One step up could be having you, the student, analyze data from real research studies. Okay. Further up, you might design your own experiments Even if you don't have the resources to conduct them in a lab setting, it gets you thinking like a researcher.
Zaynab:
So it's like a choose your own adventure, but for research.
Yassin:
You
Zaynab:
can dip your toes in or dive head first. I like it.
Yassin:
Exactly. And at the very top of the staircase, students are conducting their own research projects contributing to the field. The Healy model gives universities a road map for gradually increasing the level of research integration in a way that makes sense for their context. That makes so much sense. It's about creating a pathway, not just expecting everyone to suddenly become a researcher overnight.
Zaynab:
Absolutely. However, the paper makes a crucial point. Not every approach is one size fits all.
Yassin:
Right.
Zaynab:
They call this the good methods axis. Essentially, it acknowledges that factors like available resources, technology, even teaching styles will all influence how effectively research can be integrated.
Yassin:
So it's like you can have this amazing road map, but you need the right vehicle and the right fuel to actually make the journey.
Zaynab:
You got it. It's about finding the right fit for each unique situation, which is something we'll explore further. But first, let's shift gears and dive into some real world success stories.
Yassin:
Okay.
Zaynab:
Because seeing these models in action really brings this whole concept to life.
Yassin:
Oh, I love a good success story. Hit me a bit. What are some universities doing to make this work?
Zaynab:
What?
Yassin:
Like, laid on me, who's out there actually making this research education connection happen?
Zaynab:
Well, you might find this interesting. Remember Nanyang Technological University in Singapore with the 2 track faculty system? Yeah. Despite that potential hurdle, they've pioneered a really innovative program for their medical students.
Yassin:
Okay. So they found a way to bridge that gap. Color me intrigued. Tell me more.
Zaynab:
Right. So in their 4th year, these med students Well who are already juggling a crazy amount of information take on a 6 week individual scholarly project.
Yassin:
Woah. A deep dive into research while they're knee deep in medical studies. That's intense.
Zaynab:
Exactly. And it works. This program pushes them beyond textbooks and lectures. They design studies, analyze data, and really start thinking like research.
Yassin:
Wow. So they're not just learning about research. Mhmm. They're actually doing it. What a valuable experience.
Zaynab:
Yeah.
Yassin:
Especially at that stage in their education.
Zaynab:
It's a brilliant example of how universities can create opportunities for authentic research experience even within demanding programs. Now ready for a totally different approach? Yeah.
Yassin:
Sure is.
Zaynab:
This one takes us to URBRO University in Sweden.
Yassin:
Hit me with it. What are they doing in Sweden?
Zaynab:
Step this. They have their psychology students organize a full blown professional research conference.
Yassin:
Wait. The students are running the show, not just attending, but actually organizing it. That's incredible.
Zaynab:
It's amazing, and it teaches them so much more than just the content of the research being presented. Think about it. They're handling logistics, communicating with academics Yeah. Figuring out how to present complex information to a professional audience.
Yassin:
Those are some serious real world skills. Mhmm. It's like they're getting a crash course in event planning, academic communication, and research all in one.
Zaynab:
You've got it. And it really highlights how integrating research isn't always about conducting experiments in a lab. Right. It's about engaging with the process of research in all its different forms.
Yassin:
I love that. Okay. This is inspiring. Do you have one more success story up your sleeve?
Zaynab:
Alright. One more. And this one takes us back to the lab. This time, we're at the Karolinska Institute, also in Sweden.
Yassin:
Yeah.
Zaynab:
Their biomedicine students participate in a fascinating discovery based virology lab.
Yassin:
Discovery based. Okay. You definitely have my attention. What does that even mean in this context?
Zaynab:
So imagine this. Instead of following a predetermined lab protocol, these students are given unlabeled samples of viruses. They're challenged to use their knowledge and problem solving skills to identify them.
Yassin:
Oh, wow. It's like a scientific detective story. They have to use their deductive reasoning and lab skills to crack the case of the mysterious virus.
Zaynab:
Exactly. It makes learning engaging, relevant, and really drives home the importance of critical thinking in a research setting. But
Yassin:
k.
Zaynab:
And this is something the research paper emphasizes. It's not enough to simply throw students into these experiences.
Yassin:
You're right. There needs to be some structure around it. What are some ways that universities can make sure these innovative approaches are actually effective? How do they measure success?
Zaynab:
You're hitting on a crucial point, and, thankfully, it's something that universities are starting to prioritize. The paper points to some promising developments. For instance, Sweden's National Quality Assurance System now includes specific criteria focused on the link between teaching and research.
Yassin:
Oh, that's interesting. So it's not just about evaluating teaching or research in isolation anymore, but looking at how well they're intertwined.
Zaynab:
You got it. And it seems to be driving some positive changes. Universities are placing more emphasis on research methodology courses requiring higher qualifications for thesis supervisors, and overall, really focusing on developing those critical analysis skills we've been talking about.
Yassin:
That's fantastic. It sounds like they're taking concrete steps to ensure quality and create a more consistent experience for students.
Zaynab:
Exactly. Now shifting gears geographically, Singapore has a really interesting approach as well. The paper highlights the National Institute of Education or NIE as a prime example.
Yassin:
Okay.
Zaynab:
They have this impressive link between the research they conduct and its direct application in shaping education policy and practice.
Yassin:
Wow. So it's like a feedback loop. The research informs policy, which then influences what's happening in classrooms. We can then spark new research questions.
Zaynab:
Precisely. They've created this amazing ecosystem where research and practice are in constant dialogue with each other. They even have publications like SingTeach and Knowledge Bites, which are specifically designed to bridge the gap between academic research findings and what's happening in classrooms.
Yassin:
That's such a smart approach. Making research accessible to educators ensures that they're equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to support their students. These success stories are truly inspiring. It really seems like we're witnessing a positive shift in how universities approach this connection between research and education.
Zaynab:
Absolutely. And what's even more exciting is this isn't just happening in silos. There's a growing awareness globally. Mhmm. And initiatives like those in Sweden and Singapore are paving the way for others to follow suit.
Yassin:
That's really encouraging to hear. But I have to ask, for those of us on the learning side of things Mhmm.
Zaynab:
What
Yassin:
are the key takeaways from all of this? How can we, as students, benefit from this evolving landscape?
Zaynab:
That's the $1,000,000 question. Right? And I think the biggest takeaway is empowerment through knowledge. Now that you're aware of these different models of research integration, like the Healy model and the good methods access, you can start to identify learning opportunities that resonate with you.
Yassin:
So it's about being proactive, being aware of the different levels of research integration, and then seeking out those experiences that align with my own learning style and goals.
Zaynab:
Precisely. Don't be afraid to ask questions. When choosing courses, go beyond the syllabus and inquire about how research is incorporated. Will you get to analyze data, design experiments, or even contribute to a publication? The more students express interest in research integrated learning, the more universities will prioritize creating those opportunities.
Yassin:
That makes sense. It's about making our voices heard and advocating for the kind of learning experiences we want and know are beneficial.
Zaynab:
Exactly. You have the power to shape your own education. And this brings us to a final, provocative thought inspired by everything we've discussed today.
Yassin:
Oh, I love a good thought provoking question. Lay it on me.
Zaynab:
Imagine a future where universities offer personalized learning path ways. Wanna take a deep dive into a specific research area? There's a path for that. Prefer a broader approach with less research intensity? There's a path for that too.
Yassin:
So like a choose your own adventure for your education where you decide how deeply integrated you want your learning experience to be. That's fascinating. It would be incredible to have that level of customization and control over my own learning journey.
Zaynab:
It's an exciting vision for the future of higher education, isn't it? And it all circles back to this crucial link between education and research. By recognizing its importance and advocating for its integration, we can create a more engaging, relevant, and ultimately, more fulfilling learning experience for everyone.
Yassin:
Absolutely. It's about sparking curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and empowering learners to become active contributors to the world of knowledge. Well, on that note, I think we've successfully completed our deep dive into the fascinating intersection of education and research. Big thanks to you for joining us on this journey.
Zaynab:
It was my pleasure.
Yassin:
And to you, our listeners, we hope this deep dive has sparked some new ideas and inspired you to think differently about the power of connecting education and research. Until next time. Keep those minds curious.