Students of science tend to learn about scientific breakthroughs through textbooks and scientific journals, with a focus on the end result – the main discovery. But most of the research work underlying a discovery begins with a hypothesis – a key element of the scientific process that is often neglected in a classroom. So what is a hypothesis and how to frame one? This article shares some key points.

This article was first published by Editage Insights, Cactus Communications.

Andrea D. Phillott, Professor in Environmental Studies at FLAME University, Pune, Maharashtra, conducts research in the field of marine biology, conservation and education. In this article, she writes about how researchers can effectively engage undergraduate students in research, and how this can benefit both faculty and students.

Summary of panel discussion during a two-day workshop for undergraduate teachers at Pune.

The education model of teachers as “providers of content” is outdated; it is time to enlist the help of students in their own learning, says Teri Balser, Dean of Teaching and Learning for the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Curtin University, Perth, Australia.

Science and engineering students are increasingly looking to opportunities in academia and research given the recent explosion of funding and institutes in India. A few may also be flirting with the idea of doing an Integrated MS-PhD. It’s for this group that this article blog is relevant.