A Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in Biology: Developing Systems Thinking through Field...

Area of Science:

• Biology Education
• Undergraduate Research

Background:

• Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) are vital for skill development and student retention in STEM.
• CUREs can increase enthusiasm for science and serve as an equity intervention for underrepresented groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and assess a field-based CURE in introductory biology and marine science at a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI).
• To foster scientific identity, systems thinking, and equity among undergraduate students.

Main Methods:

• A field-based CURE was integrated into the second-semester introductory laboratory course.
• Students engaged in scientific writing, focusing on information literacy, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated gains in systems thinking, evidenced by improved evaluation of biological systems on course exams.
• The CURE positively impacted scientific identity and showed equity gains, particularly among Latinx students.

Conclusions:

• Field-based CUREs are effective in promoting scientific identity and systems thinking in introductory science courses.
• These experiences can significantly contribute to equity and may influence students' long-term personal and professional trajectories.