The Thesis Simulation: An Approach for Teaching Research Skills in a Remote,Non-Thesis Program

Abstract

Remote education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels is becoming increasingly popular. With advances in technology (utilizing satellite uplinks, VCR compatible video production facilities and computer conferencing), high-quality, flexible, remote education is now feasible. However, particularly at the graduate level, achieving the ultimate goal of providing the same educational opportunities off-campus as on-campus is not a simple process. For example, providing research skill development is difficult in the remote education environment. In human factors, such skill development can not be easily overlooked or under-emphasized since many available career opportunities require significant research efforts.

Traditionally, a large portion of research skill is developed during the conduct of a thesis project. Unfortunately, many remote students are not in a position to fulfill thesis requirements with out significant tenure (up to one year) on campus. Such requirements can preclude many students from pursuing a graduate education in the field of their choice. The current paper describes an approach (dubbed “the thesis simulation”) for providing research skill development opportunities, to the greatest extent possible, to remote students in a non-thesis, remote human factors program.