Experiential Learning through Vertically Integrated Projects at the Scottish Oceans Institute

Experiential education is a cornerstone of teaching at the University of St Andrews Scottish Oceans Institute (SOI). Central to this is the Vertically Integrated Project (VIP), ‘Dolphin Acoustics at the Interface of Biology and Computer Science’. VIPs are research-based modules where students are active collaborators in authentic research, creating new knowledge and real-world outputs and communicating to a diversity of audiences. These modules provide experiential learning and an internship-like experience in a credit-bearing module, opening doors for students who would not otherwise have the opportunity or capacity to participate in internships. VIPs include students from multiple academic years (the ‘vertical’ aspect) as well as students from several academic schools. The Dolphin Acoustics VIP includes second through fourth year undergraduate students and postgraduate students from Biology, Computer Science, Mathematics and Statistics and Physics. The students work together to analyze vocal repertoires of dolphin species, improve and create new methods and software for sound categorization, species identification, and data management, and create outreach materials. Through these tasks, students learn how to communicate across disciplinary boundaries and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. The vertical aspect of VIPs, and fact that students can participate for multiple semesters, allows them to take multiple roles in the research team and act as both mentors and mentees, developing valuable leadership skills. Other St Andrews VIPs also have ties with the SOI, for example the ‘Taking Care of Eden’ VIP works with SOI researchers and facilities to investigate the presence of microplastics in the Eden Estuary. VIPs provide students with unique access to a marine station and allow them to gain real-world, interdisciplinary research experience all while earning academic credit.