High School Research: Experiential Learning Insights from a Scholar and a Mentor

Abstract

Senior theses and capstone courses are experiential learning activities that high school seniors sometimes undertake in their last year of secondary education. These experiences allow students to research a topic of interest while applying the knowledge and skills they have acquired. This paper provides examples of such programs found in high schools throughout the world, shares the reflections of both a scholar and mentor on a senior thesis in marketing, and presents the limitations of such endeavors as experiential learning. Avenues for future research are identified regarding undergraduate and career outcomes for students who engage in high school research programs.