Student-Scientist Curriculum: Integrating Inquiry-Based Research Experiences and Professional Development Activities...

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Enzyme kinetics
• Microbiology

Background:

• Undergraduate biology education often lacks authentic research experiences.
• Inquiry-based learning can improve student engagement and scientific skill development.
• Integrating professional development with research fosters a holistic scientific skillset.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a 16-week scaffolded curriculum for undergraduate introductory biology students.
• To integrate inquiry-based research experiences with professional development activities.
• To enhance student understanding of enzyme activity, biochemical reactions, and alcohol fermentation using *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*.

Main Methods:

• A 16-week scaffolded curriculum was developed and implemented.
• Students engaged in the full scientific process: experiment design, data analysis, peer review, and presentation.
• Learning outcomes were assessed via formative (surveys, reflections) and summative (pre/post tests, grades) methods.

Main Results:

• Over 50% of students achieved 70% or higher on the collaborative student-scientist project.
• Students reported significant learning gains in scientific concepts and skills.
• A majority of students would recommend the laboratory course to peers.

Conclusions:

• The curriculum successfully enhanced students' technical, analytical, and communication skills.
• Providing opportunities for students to conduct the entire scientific process is effective.
• This model fosters a collaborative student-scientist experience with positive learning outcomes.