(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: An innovative research study conducted by scientists from the Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QU-YSC) has unveiled the significant role of informal multidisciplinary chemistry research programmes in fostering research competencies and attitudes among aspiring scientists.
This study was conducted by QU-YSC as part of the“I am a Researcher” programme, designed for national students to nurture their research-based knowledge through advanced research experiences in real-world labs under the mentorship of research experts and scientists.
The study used a mixed-methods analysis of 330 high school students from 2010 to 2020 to gauge the programme's effectiveness.
The findings published in the journal of chemical education of the American Chemical Society shed light on the transformative impact of these programmes on shaping the future of scientific research.
The study, titled“The Role of Multidisciplinary Chemistry Informal Research Programs in Building Research Competencies and Attitudes,” aimed to investigate the benefits and outcomes of informal research experiences in the field of chemistry.
By examining the perspectives of participating students and analysing their research competencies and attitudes, the research team gained valuable insights into the effectiveness of multidisciplinary approaches in nurturing scientific talent.
Through a carefully designed research programme, students were exposed to a wide range of interdisciplinary research projects that combined principles from various science and engineering branches, particularly chemistry.
These projects encouraged participants to explore innovative approaches, collaborate across disciplines, and think critically to solve complex scientific problems.
The findings of this research study have implications for educational institutions, policymakers, and organisations invested in promoting scientific research.
It underscores the importance of fostering multidisciplinary collaborations, providing informal research opportunities, and promoting research competencies and attitudes among young scientists.
Moreover, this study serves as a call to action for the scientific community to further invest in informal multidisciplinary chemistry research programmes and create an ecosystem that nurtures the scientific potential of aspiring researchers.
Prof. Noora Al Thani, the study's principal investigator, emphasised the significance of informal multidisciplinary chemistry research programmes in building research competencies and attitudes.“This programme provides invaluable opportunities for aspiring scientists to engage in hands-on research experiences and develop the necessary skills and mindset for a successful scientific career.”