LESEC is a center for educational research in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Architecture & Mathematics). This research focuses on learning and teaching within all STEAM disciplines and across different educational levels (primary, secondary, higher education, postgraduate training). In addition to gaining in-depth insights into learning, support, and educational processes, LESEC also aims to integrate the findings from this research into educational practice, both within and outside the university.
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Project
Within LESEC, a PhD position is available that focuses on investigating the impact of a specific reflection tool on the development of conceptual understanding and self-regulatory skills within academic physics education.
In addition to acquiring new conceptual knowledge, students should also develop self-regulatory skills in higher education. Research has shown that better self-regulation is associated with higher learning gains. Acquiring self-regulatory skills is also more effective when connected to the discipline itself rather than being treated in a discipline-agnostic manner. Educational technology tools can encourage student self-regulation by presenting them with reflective prompts while acquiring new knowledge, such as solving physics exercises.
The PhD project will examine the effect of the Disciplinary Learning Companion, a reflection instrument developed by KU Leuven in a previous research project. Previous research has demonstrated that the use of the Disciplinary Learning Companion is positively related to academic performance in a first-year physics course. This improvement was primarily attributed to increased conceptual understanding among students, more so than self-regulatory skills. The goal of this research is to gain deeper insights into the effect on different student groups in relation to two aspects. First, the effect on conceptual understanding related to known physics misconceptions will be analyzed. Second, we aim to better disentangle the effect on conceptual understanding and self-regulation. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches will be employed.
For more information about the research, we refer to the following publication:
Sijmkens, E., De Cock, M., De Laet, T. (2023). Scaffolding students’ use of metacognitive activities using discipline- and topic-specific reflective prompts. Metacognition And Learning. doi: 10.1007/s11409-023-09363-w
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We are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic, communicative, curious, and dedicated researcher.
Candidates should have:
- Distinguished themselves during the completion of their master’s degree in the sciences or (industrial) (bio-) engineering or an educational master in science & technology.
- A good understanding of physics (statics, kinematics, dynamics, and electromagnetism) at the level of a first-year bachelor’s course within the sciences or (industrial) (bio-) engineering.
- Very good knowledge of English, both written and spoken.
- Very good knowledge of Dutch, both written and spoken, is an added value (as qualitative research with students and physics courses are also taught in Dutch).
- Familiarity with statistical analyses and/or qualitative research methods or a strong willingness to quickly acquire expertise in these areas.
- Strong research skills and a commitment to rapidly mastering appropriate research methodologies and ICT applications.
- Interest in STEAM education.
- Networking and communication skills. The research will be conducted in collaboration with professors, assistants, and students, and will be presented at national and international forums.
- Initiative and a proactive mindset.
- Comfort with independent work. While you will be part of a supportive team ready to provide advice, the doctoral project is a personal long-term endeavor.
As a doctoral student, you will undergo a doctoral training program at the Arenberg Doctoral School, where you will have the time and space to learn and develop research expertise tailored to your specific needs and interests. A limited teaching assignment is also part of the responsibilities.
Offer
Full-time position with a competitive salary as a doctoral fellow. Funding is available for four years. Start date: October 1, 2024.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Tinne De Laet, tel.: +32 16 32 70 75, mail: [email protected] or Prof. dr. Mieke De Cock, tel.: +32 16 32 42 48, mail: [email protected].
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
