Learning research skills: Business students’ instructional preferences and the impact of the pandemic

Abstract This study will capture a snapshot of the instructional preferences of business students and the behavioral and personal characteristics that affect their choice. A survey was distributed to upper division (junior and senior level) undergraduate business students, to gather information about students’ instructional preferences, assessment of research skills, and personal/behavioral characteristics that affect their choice. The study found both in 2020 and 2021 that business students prefer to learn new research skills in a one-on-one appointment in-person rather than a classroom setting or on their own through web guides or videos. Students in both years rated themselves as having good to excellent research skills and cited work and family responsibilities as the top reasons that prevented them from seeking research instruction. This study highlights the instructional modality preferences of upper division undergraduate business students and the factors that prevent students from receiving research assistance.