Page 25 - SBA Handbook 2020 - FINAL

Research Assignments

Research means to carefully analyze a problem and do a detailed study of the specific
problem, by making use of the relevant scientific methods.

A research assignment can be a research project or an investigative project. It is a task
designed to provide in-depth or deep original study about an issue, a topic or problem to be
addressed within the environment or society.

Advantages of Research Assignments:

1. Help students gain a more in-depth understanding of the topic or issue.

2. Empower students to synthesise information based on data collected and draw
relevant conclusions.

3. Help to increase students’ self-confidence, tolerance for challenges and ability to
work independently as well as collaboratively.

4. Help students to be more reflective and to develop independent critical thinking,
metacognitive and decision-making skills.

5. Empower students to apply the use of the scientific method for discovery of new
knowledge and the solution of problems.

6. Enhance students’ oral and written communication skills.

7. Increase students’ intrinsic motivation to learn, and demonstrate a more active role
in learning.

Disadvantages of Research Assignments

1. Students may find them to be too time consuming to complete.

2. Students may not be able to get the commitment of, or the authentic information
from participants.

3. Teachers may find it challenging to supervise and grade the projects.

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