GREAT THINKING THURSDAY
For Klein ISD Educators of Gifted Learners
Researchers in the Making
by Imee Villarreal
AA Program Coordinator
Many students who participated in Klein ISD’s Advanced Placement Seminar course last year are currently enrolled in AP Research which is year two of the AP Capstone Program. AP Capstone is an innovative diploma program from the College Board that equips students with independent research and critical thinking skills increasingly valued by colleges. In AP Research students cultivate the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent inquiry in order to produce and defend their scholarly work.
As part of the process students in Klein have submitted research proposals to be reviewed. Teachers and administrators together with Amanda Salinas, Director of Research and Program Evaluation, are coming together this month to review and approve student research involving human subjects (this includes surveys, professional tests, questionnaires, etc.).Research topics range from emotional effects of Disney Princess movies on young girls to laws protecting human trafficking victims. “This experience is very beneficial for students as it helps prepare them for future endeavors like writing a thesis or dissertation. AP Research is also a great example of personalized learning because it gives students structures and parameters but provides choice in topic, research method, and where they will take their findings,” according to Ms. Salinas.
According to Prep Scholar, students who take AP Research are better prepared for college academics after taking the course. “You will already be familiar with the process of collecting research and using it to formulate an opinion on a topic. When you're assigned your first research paper, you’ll know exactly where to start.” Prep Scholar also notes that aside from those benefits, AP Research can be a fun way to explore a topic that genuinely interests students. “You'll have a ton of freedom when it comes to choosing your topic, so you can explore almost any idea that you find compelling. AP Research is a good choice for students who are looking for a way to enrich their high school experience with independent research and enroll in competitive college programs.”
We are looking forward to the amazing research papers, presentations, and oral defense from our Advanced Placement learners in Klein ISD!