Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Educational institutions promote the development of writing in students, a fundamental competence in higher education, where they face challenges such as discursive genres and academic standards, especially in citation. Many undergraduates are unfamiliar with APA standards, which leads to common errors and frustration, although initiatives such as workshops and feedback have been shown to be effective in improving their learning. Aim This study aims to assess students’ knowledge of APA 7th and to identify common errors in applying it. Methodology Two questionnaires with 20 questions each were designed and administered to 70 students before and after providing asynchronous resources. The results indicate a low overall knowledge of APA 7th among students. Findings Undergraduates are found to be more proficient in indirect citations, tables and figures, but less proficient in literal citations and bibliographic references. Asynchronous resources did not have a significant influence on improving the learning of the standards, although there was a slight improvement in the results. Value It is concluded that it is crucial to reinforce the teaching of APA 7th standards through specific initiatives, such as workshops or assessment rubrics, coinciding with previous studies that highlight this need.
Source: Frontiers in Education
Authors: Adrián Neubauer, Ariadna Hernaiz-Sánchez
Institution: Universidad Europea de Madrid
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,353
Funder: Universidad Europea de Madrid
OpenAlex ID: W4412465864