As a scholarly approach to teaching and learning, involves an iterative process much like any other research study. The Center for Teaching can assist you through this process.
[I]t begins with intellectual curiosity, is conducted deliberately and systematically, is grounded in an analysis of relevant evidence, and results in findings shared with peers to be reviewed and to expand a knowledge base.” - Nancy Chick, scholar on the SOTL process
Designing and conducting a SoTL study is a dynamic process. The Center for Teaching staff will utilize their expertise to guide and support you throughout this journey.
Asking Research Questions
Effective SoTL research questions are meaningful for the instructors, their students, and their colleagues, and contribute to the advancement of the field (Ciccone, 2018). SoTL research questions may delve into the effectiveness of a teaching strategy or the nature of learning and teaching within a specific context. Ultimately, SoTL research strives to investigate and understand the meaningful learning experiences of students. In this video, Hutchings outlines a taxonomy of SoTL research questions.
Reviewing the Literature
SoTL research should be based on solid evidence within the specific discipline and the broader pedagogical context. The Center for Teaching, in partnership with the Iowa Libraries, has created a SoTL Libguide to support the process of searching for disciplinary and SoTL-specific journals and databases.
Designing the Study
The SoTL literature is strengthened by the contributions of scholars with a variety of disciplinary and methodological backgrounds. Center for Teaching staff can assist you in developing a methodology that is aligned with your research questions. SoTL Research Methodologies by Yeo, Miller-Young, and Manarin (2023) is a helpful resource for designing a SoTL study.
Completing an IRB Application
SoTL is a human-subject inquiry that involves research with students as key participants. The Human Subjects Office at the University of Iowa provides SoTL scholars with comprehensive guidance, including necessary forms and procedures, to protect students against any potential risks associated with their involvement in the research. The Center for Teaching can assist you in preparing your IRB application.
Collecting and Analyzing Data
The choice of data collection and analysis methods is guided by the study’s theoretical and methodological frameworks. SoTL scholars may utilize a variety of approaches and instruments, including surveys, student reflections, and course assignments, to gather data that addresses their research questions. Check out Nancy Chick's resource on SoTL data analysis for further reference.
Presenting and Publishing Your Findings
The audience of SoTL studies includes students as well as academic and broader public communities. SoTL researchers may share their SoTL findings by presenting at conferences or at institutional events, and by publishing journal articles or book chapters. The SoTL Lib Guide offers several recommended teaching and learning conferences as well as links to directories of SoTL conferences and journals.