FROM A BLANK PAGE TO A COMPLETE AND COMPREHENSIVE RESEARCH REPORT: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO CRAFTING A FIRST RESEARCH REPORT
M. Castiñeira Reis
In the initial phases of their academic journey, students often encounter challenges in crafting research reports, grappling with determining the essential elements to include and discerning the significance of various pieces of information. This task of selecting what merits inclusion and exclusion frequently evolves into a daunting endeavor. Our observations indicate that students, in an effort to combat the intimidation of a blank canvas, resort to using convoluted and ambiguous language. This approach, rather than serving to address specific queries, appears primarily aimed at filling the void on the page. Additionally, we have identified significant hurdles in accurately presenting data, computing errors, and applying significant figures correctly.
In response to these challenges, we explored a pedagogical strategy designed to empower students in their report-writing endeavors. This approach involved allowing students to initially struggle with the report creation process, followed by providing them with a concise, yet thorough, guide aimed at aiding them in revising their reports. The outcomes of this intervention were noteworthy. Post-guidance, students not only exhibited enhancements in their scores and a deeper understanding of the subjects they documented but also reported a surge in confidence when tasked with compiling new reports.
Through this intervention, we aim to shed light on the efficacy of targeted instructional materials in facilitating students' academic development. This study underscores the pivotal role of structured guidance in augmenting students' ability to articulate their research findings coherently and with precision, ultimately fostering a more profound engagement with the subject matter and bolstering their confidence in academic report writing.
Keywords: Education, report writing, academy.