Undergraduate research: An apprenticeship approach to teaching political science methods

Abstract

Undergraduate research, the practice of teaching students by engaging them in a research project, has a long record of achievement. Research-based evaluations show it is likely to have a range of positive educational and career outcomes for students. Many examinations of these benefits apply to STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). This article sets out one approach to undergraduate research in political science, based on an apprenticeship model. Using a small survey of all those who have followed the GV314 course at the London School of Economics since 2004 the article finds evidence that the benefits of undergraduate research appear to be quite striking outside STEM subjects too.