Adding Authenticity to Inquiry in a First-Year, Research-Based, Biology Laboratory Course

Area of Science:

• Biology Education
• Undergraduate Research

Background:

• Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) integrate authentic research into curricula.
• CUREs provide research opportunities to diverse student populations early in their academic careers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and evaluate student outcomes of the UM Authentic Research Laboratories (UMARL) biology CURE.
• To assess the impact of UMARL on research skills, personal development, and academic success.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a long-running biology CURE (UMARL) at the University of Miami.
• Utilized a national survey to measure student learning gains in research skills and personal development.
• Analyzed academic outcomes, comparing UMARL students to a matched group from traditional labs.

Main Results:

• UMARL students reported high learning gains in data analysis, science communication, self-confidence, and self-efficacy.
• Students in UMARL showed 1.5-1.7 times greater odds of engaging in individual research.
• UMARL participation was associated with increased likelihood of graduating with a STEM degree within 4 years and graduating with honors.

Conclusions:

• The authentic nature of UMARL fosters student confidence and persistence in STEM fields.
• CUREs like UMARL are effective in enhancing both research competencies and academic achievement.
• Integrating authentic research experiences early in undergraduate education can significantly impact student success.