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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
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A Cross-Disciplinary and Multi-Modal Experimental Design for Studying Near-Real-Time Authentic Examination Experiences
Published on: September 4, 2019
Is This Science? Students' Experiences of Failure Make a Research-Based Course Feel Authentic
Emma C Goodwin1, Vladimir Anokhin1, MacKenzie J Gray1
1Biology Department, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97201.
CBE Life Sciences Education
|February 18, 2021
Summary
Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) provide authentic research opportunities. Key elements like failure, iteration, and relevant discoveries significantly boost students' perception of authenticity in CUREs.
Area of Science:
- Biology Education Research
- Undergraduate Science Education
Background:
- Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) and inquiry-based curricula both aim to teach the scientific process.
- CUREs are designed to offer students authentic research experiences with novel, relevant projects.
- Understanding factors that shape students' perception of research authenticity in CUREs is crucial for effective course design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore introductory biology students' perceptions of research authenticity in CURE and inquiry-based courses.
- To identify specific course design elements that influence students' beliefs about conducting authentic research.
Main Methods:
- Administered the Laboratory Course Assessment Survey to compare student perceptions in CURE and inquiry sections.
- Collected weekly reflection responses from CURE students to identify factors influencing their perception of authenticity.
- Coded reflection responses to analyze the impact of specific experiences on perceived research authenticity.
Main Results:
- Students in CURE sections reported higher levels of authentic research elements compared to those in inquiry-based sections.
- Experiences of failure and iteration in CUREs were positively correlated with perceived research authenticity.
- The use of scientific practices and engagement with relevant discoveries in CURE projects significantly enhanced students' sense of authenticity.
Conclusions:
- CUREs foster a stronger sense of authentic research compared to traditional inquiry-based curricula.
- Failure and iteration, when coupled with relevant discoveries within a CURE framework, are powerful drivers of perceived research authenticity.
- These findings offer insights for optimizing CURE design to maximize student engagement and the perception of authentic scientific inquiry.
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