ABSTRACT
Undergraduate research (UGR) can take many forms, this chapter focuses on course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), where an entire class of students engages in undergraduate research project(s) that include the essential elements of a high-impact practices defined by Kuh. It also focuses on strategies for supporting student work in CUREs and for gathering evidence of impact on student learning and success. Given differences in student expectations and preparation, it is critical to scaffold assignments appropriately within CUREs. Although outcomes are similar for students in CUREs compared to those in a traditional apprenticeship UGR experience, those in a CURE report higher gains in learning the scientific process. One major advantage of implementing a CURE rather than working with individual students is the opportunities CUREs provide for students who might not have the ability to participate in research otherwise. With planning and forethought, CUREs can increase access to UGR, benefit faculty research agendas, and provide high-quality experiences for undergraduate students.
