“It is really important that as a university we strengthen the integration of research and teaching not only to sustain our disciplines but also to excite and prepare our students for the longer term challenges after they graduate
Professor Liam Maguire, Pro-Vice Chancellor Research
Research-informed and integrated teaching, also known as the Research-Teaching Nexus (RTN), refers to the range of ways in which students engage with research during their degree programme and beyond, including research communicated in the literature, the research activity of university staff, and research projects undertaken by students.
RTN is a hallmark of higher education and has been shown to:
- Open career pathways, especially for underrepresented populations.
- Increase interest and preparedness for postgraduate study and PhD research.
- Increase student persistence, engagement and retention.
- Develop practical skills such as gathering and analysing data, and communicating insights.
- Develop softer skills such as thinking analytically, questioning critically, and responding to inquiry.
- Increase impact of research.
- Foster a community of scholars.
Ulster University has recognised the importance of the RTN and is now has specified research-informed teaching as a key Quality of our Learning, Teaching and the Student Experience at Ulster University.