Faculty Survey: Importance and Perception of Undergraduate Research Ability

According to faculty, the most important research abilities for undergraduates are using information ethically and searching within research databases. You perceive that students are best at using information ethically and especially need help with evaluating information sources.

We asked undergraduate students to indicate their comfort with research and how often they ask for help; see their responses.

Overall scores, limited to respondents not answering "N/A":

	Average Score for Importance of Ability (5 = "High Importance")	Average Score for Perception of Ability (5 = "High Ability")
Choosing and refining a research topic	4.42	3.19
Choosing research databases	4.47	3.22
Searching within research databases	4.56	3.13
Using advanced searching features	3.74	2.87
Determining if the library has what you need	4.28	3.17
Evaluating information sources	4.50	2.84
Citing sources correctly	4.47	3.01
Using information ethically	4.75	3.45

We welcome further input. Please email library@up.edu with your comments and suggestions.