What is it?
Students enrolled in courses which require students to conduct experiments and practical investigations are often required to document the processes that were undertaken together with results in a practical report book.
Why use it?
To encourage students to formally document aims, processes, methods and findings of experiments or laboratory work.
The practical report also provides students with opportunities to interpret and reflect on the significance or value of findings. Reports can also be used as a teaching tool if students are encouraged to reflect on work they might have carried out in the earlier stages of their degree.
How do I do it?
Typically, it is important to structure a practical report using the following headings:
- Title
- Introduction
- Materials and methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- References and appendices
Templates can be developed in a Word document and uploaded to vUWS if the practical report is to be reviewed.
Considerations
It is important to consider whether students will be required to submit reports for formative feedback. You might consider using a journal or wiki task if you are guiding students to become proficient at writing reports. This will allow you to provide ongoing feedback.
Resources
These resources can be used to guide your assessment and design of practical reports.
