Developing final year and capstone projects to engage students in research and inquiry: maintaining standards while encouraging creativity and diversity

Abstract

This interactive presentation will explore creative ways in which we can design final year and capstone projects which include a significant element of research and inquiry and deliver key graduate attributes. Some departments have introduced capstone projects in their final year courses which are innovative or creative in the context of their discipline or institution, and may include group, work-oriented and community-based projects. There can also be novel ways of disseminating the findings – via exhibitions, undergraduate research conferences and other forms of public engagement. The key is to develop flexible alternatives which meet the needs of all students while maintaining comparable standards.