Integrating innovative techniques in library science and guided inquiry based science learning through undergraduate student self-directed primary research: a new approach

Abstract

We have introduced an inquiry based, student centered mode of instruction in a general Science introductory course of first year Odontology. We present here the definitive results and conclusions from a two years research experience about the integration of new techniques to teach different science subjects. Students have acquired course´s competencies by designing and carrying out their own primary research in a dentistry topic of their choice conducting a cross sectional statistical study. 80% of students report that having English as the medium of instruction is positive; 75 % of students describe to have grown academically by doing independent research and 85 % emphasize that being able to choose their own topic has been an important aspect of their research; 80% of students report to have grown academically after this course. Our results can be applied in other courses, particularly in those that include a student planned project such as master degree final projects, and particularly next year in different courses of Medicine and Odontology.