70 Evaluating Network Maps from Student Self-reflections During a Departmental Internship Program

Abstract

Student reflection presents opportunities to think through the learning process especially in a non-guided experiential learning course where students themselves need to focus on learning outcomes and course objectives. The purpose of this study is to explore students learning experiences by examining their reflections of university students participating in internships in the animal science industry during the summer semester of 2021 while taking coursework at the university. A total of 12 bi-weekly reflections collected and a qualitative thematic analysis was conducted with strengths, struggles, skill development, and disposition development as major theme categories. The reflections were coded in MAXQDA and network maps were created with Girvan-Newman cluster analyses in the UCINET and NetDraw software. We identified 5 clusters (Q=0.613) from correlations of the reflection codes at P < 0.01 (Fig.1). In the cluster with the highest correlations, students associated internship activities with networking opportunities, gaining new perspectives, observation of experts working in context, and problem-solving, indicating that most students appreciated these aspects of the program. In another cluster, students associated skill development, experiential learning opportunities, and collaborations, with productive failure indicating that they learn from trying and making mistakes. In the third cluster, students' perceptions of career advancement, mental stamina, and work ethic were correlated with reduced confidence in their new work environment. In the fourth cluster, students identify that the activity stimulated curiosity, however, this is linked with necessary repetition, collaboration, and interpersonal skills while they struggle with the application of the concepts in the real world. In the final cluster, students’ career experience was correlated with their development of marketing skills, sense of self, responsibility, and time management. Although the internship program enhanced the students' knowledge and skills, a structured instead of open reflection is recommended to gain a better understanding of the overall picture.