Semi-guided FYP template for STEM writers
Engineering students using a semi-guided final-year-project report template reported support for writing efficiency, planning, and perceived performance during online-tutored FYPs.
Source
Semi-guided learning tool as framework for STEM students learning: A case study for final year projects
What they did
Researchers surveyed 55 engineering students completing final-year projects about a semi-guided learning tool (structured FYP report template) used with mostly online tutor meetings during COVID restrictions.
What they found
Students described the framework as supporting written communication/planning skills, writing efficiency, outcome quality, and sometimes broader “outside the box” thinking. Many had work experience; technology interests dominated topic choices; most did not propose external company collaborations.
The limits
What it doesn't show
Single-institution perception data without a control group cannot prove the template causes better FYP grades or transfer beyond this setting.
Key terms
- Final Year Project (FYP)
- Capstone engineering project combining independent work with tutor guidance and a formal report.
- Semi-guided learning tool
- Structured template/framework that scaffolds student work without fully prescribing every step.
- Written communication competence
- Ability to produce clear, well-structured academic/professional writing.
- Planning skills
- Organizing tasks and time to complete a complex project report.
- Product- vs research-oriented FYP
- Projects emphasizing prototype/system development versus new knowledge creation.
- Online tutoring
- Periodic FYP review meetings held remotely during COVID restrictions.
Flashcards
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What tool did students use?
Common questions
Who responded?
55 engineering degree students (average age 26; mostly male).
What was the intervention-like tool?
A semi-guided template used as a framework for writing the FYP report.
What outcomes did students emphasize?
Writing/planning skill support, efficiency, quality of delivered work, and sometimes broader thinking.
Were meetings online?
Yes—COVID restrictions meant review meetings were held online.
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