A Conceptual Framework for Boosting Research Activities Learning in Undergraduate Students

Abstract

The research process plays a significant role in the university environment since it allows knowledge to be enriched, requiring the active participation of university professors and students. Such involvement is not carried out as expected, mainly since there are not enough mechanisms to foster the inclusion of professors and students. It is widely known that many members of the academic and student community lack training or a knowledge base regarding the development of scientific research. This paper proposes a conceptual framework for research that enables to get knowledge in research activities targeted at university students and professors to improve individual and institutional productivity in research. The proposed framework is developed using a methodology of 5 phases: 1) literature review; 2) study of methodological frames; 3) definition of framework components; 4) implementation plan; and 5) validation of the framework. The approach of the framework has been evaluated by experts with extensive and recognized experience in developing research and managing research directions in universities. According to the results of the evaluation by experts, the framework enables to set the path to develop and increase the capabilities in research of the community of professors and students. However, being a conceptual framework, it requires yet more detail in the specification of each process to be implemented appropriately.