Define Your Goals Before You Design a CURE: A Call to Use Backward Design in Planning Course-Based Undergraduate...

Area of Science:

• Science Education
• Undergraduate Research
• Curriculum Design

Background:

• Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) integrate authentic research into laboratory courses.
• CUREs present unique design challenges due to dual goals: scientific discovery and student learning.
• Effective design is crucial as CUREs become more prevalent in undergraduate science education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To recommend backward design as a framework for developing CUREs.
• To address the challenge of balancing research and pedagogical goals in CUREs.
• To provide guidance for course designers creating effective CUREs.

Main Methods:

• This perspectives article explores the application of backward design principles to CURE development.
• It outlines recommendations for integrating research and learning objectives.
• The focus is on a structured approach to course design.

Main Results:

• Backward design offers a systematic method for aligning research and learning outcomes.
• It facilitates the integration of authentic research into the undergraduate curriculum.
• This approach supports the development of CUREs that meet both scientific and educational aims.

Conclusions:

• Backward design is a valuable pedagogical strategy for creating effective CUREs.
• Thoughtful course design using backward design can enhance both student learning and research productivity.
• Implementing backward design ensures CUREs achieve their full potential in undergraduate science education.