Michael Sanderson, Nancy Russell, Mariya Campbell, Therese Poole, Paul Ulrich
Studies have shown that providing undergraduates with research experience can lead to persistence in STEM fields. We propose a scalable course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) in molecular parasitology that blends bioinformatics analysis and molecular experimentation. Science literacy, self-directed learning, critical thinking, and ability to develop argument were monitored using coding-rubrics for writing assignments, journal club reports, and weekly learning logs. The CURE survey (Lopatto et al.) was modified to provide pre- and post-course measurement of perceptual gains in student skills, confidence, and science identity. Analysis of the initial cohort enrolled in the study, indicate that gains in competence and self-directed learning are aligned with self-reported gains in science identity and scientific competence. We anticipate that our CURE will inform efforts to build high-impact platforms for undergraduate research that can be scaled up throughout USG.
