IntelPrep, BARD and LinkImplication: processes for improving student learning and decision making

Abstract

This paper summarises an Integrated Learning and Pedagogical Research Process (labelled IntelPrep), within which a combined Business Analysis and Academic Research approach (labelled BARD) plays a prominent role, itself incorporating the concept of linking analysis to recommendation (labelled LinkImplication). IntelPrep combines a learning process which is made explicit to students and evaluated with a piece of pedagogical research into student perceptions of that process, particularly into the use of BARD. Evidence suggests that the BARD approach has benefits for students in terms of deeper learning, easier structuring of answers and better results but also imposes a heavier workload.

While the context for the following explication of this approach is in business and management, BARD has applications in any subject where students are using most of the elements of inquiry-based learning, as characterised by Hepworth and Walton (2009, p.82-3) and, subsequently, in career and life decisions. Equally, IntelPrep involves a series of stages which can be applied to the delivery - and assessment - of most curricula.