We are proud to share the inspiring academic work of our IDA alumni. Recently, Anna Hüvös and Trinh Nguyen co-authored the publication “Students at the Centre Stage of Character Education: First-Year Students’ Beliefs on Ideal Qualities”, which was published as part of an ongoing research project on education and student development.
Abstract
Knowledge, skills, and character are the pillars of Tilburg University’s educational
vision, reflecting the university’s beliefs on what qualities are necessary for students’
successful learning. Aside from knowledge and skills, Tilburg University also aims
to implement ‘character building’ in its programmes, based on the belief that it
helps to students become critical thinkers who are motivated to act responsibly.
In this paper, we investigate (Tilburg) university students’ beliefs on desirable character
qualities, and whether they align with the educational vision of Tilburg University regarding
character education. Although Tilburg University emphasises student-centred learning,
there is missing knowledge regarding students’ beliefs on desirable character traits that
they hope to develop. As a student-centred university, it is therefore necessary to research
student beliefs to gain insights into the success of the university’s vision. Indeed, if the
university’s goals regarding character education do not align with the students’ views, this
misalignment can result in disinterested students, disillusioned educators, and an overall
loss of student applicants to the programmes offered at the institution. However, if the
beliefs align, students are intrinsically motivated and engaged, and teaching staff find it
easier to teach.
This paper first elaborates on Tilburg University’s vision of character education, before
presenting students’ desires, attitudes, and thoughts on character education. Students’
input is derived from nine interviews conducted with the narrative method. This paper
will discuss students’ beliefs regarding the qualities of a good thinker, an engaged citizen,
and a person who can tackle complex challenges, which offers insights into their views on
good character. The findings confirm that students’ beliefs have much in common with
those of Tilburg University, although they also strongly value a large number of qualities
that are not explicitly mentioned in the educational mission.
Click here to read full text of the article: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/394304399_Students_at_the_Centre_Stage_of_Character_Education_First-Year_Students’_Beliefs_on_Ideal_Qualities
Be First to Comment