Evaluation of Cross-listed Undergraduate and Graduate Learning Environment
Grant program: Teaching and Learning Development Grant (TLDG)
Grant recipient: Zachary Rowan, School of Criminology
Project team: Lucy Digney, research assistant
Timeframe: July 2021 to August 2022
Funding: $5,000
Course addressed: CRIM 416/CRIM 862: Current Issues in Criminology and Criminal Justice – Groups & Crime
Final report: View Zachary Rowan’s Final Report (PDF) >>
Description: For this project, I would like to develop and evaluate a cross-listed course that is offered at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The existing structure of curriculum and degree requirements within the Criminology graduate program (and likely in other departments) create difficulties for faculty interested in offering graduate elective courses. Due to the need to meet minimum student registration within courses, graduate elective courses often are not filled. This results in fewer elective offerings and reductions in interest by faculty to develop new graduate courses.
Although this is a small-scale study, I believe this project has important implications for both Criminology and in other academic units. Any unit engaging in graduate program development may view the findings as important for considering whether the adoption of cross-listed course is a viable strategy towards offering electives without fear of cancelled courses. I also think it will raise attention to the potential utility of offering these types of courses for the undergraduate program. This type of course may provide an opportunity for undergraduates to get a window into graduate school.
Questions addressed:
- Does the cross-listed learning environment contribute to improvements in student grades?
- Do students perceive differences in their experience, knowledge and skills in key learning outcomes in cross-listed versus traditional courses?
- What are the benefits and limitations of cross-listed course?
Knowledge sharing: I plan to propose a presentation to the School of Criminology and offer a presentation/executive summary to FASS.
Keywords: Cross-listed course, dual-course experience.